Date fruit with it’s loads of essential minerals
Dates are a nutritious fruit, packed with fiber, carbohydrates and several vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of potassium, magnesium, and iron. Dates also contain antioxidants and offer various health benefits, including improved gut health and potential benefits for brain health and childbirth according to the Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Nutritional Content (per 100 grams)
- Calories: 277
- Carbohydrates: 75 grams
- Fiber: 6.7 grams
- Protein: 1.8 grams
- Potassium: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Magnesium: 14% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 12% of the DV
- Iron: 5% of the DV
- Copper: 40% of the DV
- Manganese: 14% of the DV
- Sugars: 63.4g (in a 100g serving of dried dates)
Other important nutrients and compounds
- Dates are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against cell damage.
- They also contain plant compounds that may have various health benefits.
- Dates are low in sodium and fat, and contain no cholesterol, according to Bateel.
Health Benefits
- Improved gut health: The fiber in dates can help regulate digestion and promote a healthy gut.
- Brain health: Dates contain antioxidants and other compounds that may be beneficial for brain function.
- Natural childbirth: Some studies suggest dates may help with natural childbirth.
- Heart health: Dates are a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health.
Considerations
- Sugar content: Dates are naturally high in sugar, so those monitoring their blood sugar levels should consume them in moderation, according to Healthline.
- Calorie density: Dates are relatively high in calories, especially dried dates, so portion control is important.
