Benefits of Eating Dates

Want to add some sweetness to your morning oats but also want to avoid unhealthy sugars? Here is a simple way to naturally sweeten any meal or snack and it’s nutritious too!

Dates specifically pitted and dried, are a good alternative to refined sugars, raw sugars, or even sugar substitutes. When it comes to eating healthy, consider the nutritional benefits of every bite of food. Think of what’s inside each food item that you plan to eat. Dates are derived from palm trees and are naturally sweet. The two most common dates in the United States are Medjool dates and Deglet Noor dates. Dates range in size from an average of 8 grams to 24 grams. One pitted Medjool date has an average of 23 calories and 6 grams of carbohydrate. Although dates are naturally high in sugar, the fiber they contain helps keep blood sugars from spiking and makes them a better choice to granulated sugar.

Dates are rich in antioxidants which work to lower inflammation and are packed with healthy nutrients such as Copper, Potassium, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Calcium, and Iron. In comparison, a teaspoon of unrefined sugar has about 16 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrate and do not contain health benefits. Dates are regarded as a heart healthy addition to a balanced diet as they also contain heathy fats. Overall, dates should be consumed in moderation. They can be chopped and added to cooked oats or consumed alone as a high fiber snack. Overall, dates are the sweeter choice.

Till next time, stay healthy and be well.