The harm and benefits of dried dates will be described in this article. Each of us at least once tasted this amazingly delicious treat! Most of us consider dried dates only as a “tasty treat”, but in hot countries they have been raised almost to the rank of panacea for many diseases and the elixir of longevity. It is not necessary to dispute the beneficial effect of this fruit on the human body, because it is really rich in vitamins, useful macro- and microelements. Dates satisfactorily satisfy hunger, give a tangible charge of energy and are simply delicious with their unusual, unlike anything pungent-sweet taste.
What are dates?
To begin with, you need to designate that this is a tree, and if the tree gives fruit, then they are already considered fruits (since berries grow mainly on fruit bushes). Date palm trees of individual species give us these sweet and healthy fruits. A diverse number of species falls under the category of date palms, but most of all, it is Phoenix dactylifera - Fingered date is considered the most common variety. For taste and nutritional value, grades are also valued: Shakra, Saki, Sukkari, Barhi, Nabbut Saif, Razis, Salabi, Halas, Deglet Nur (Algerian), Majul (Moroccan - one of the largest sizes) and others.
Today, there are approximately 450 varietal species in the world, and in Saudi Arabia - one of the largest suppliers / producers of these fruits - they are given very significant significance.
Photos of dried sweet fruits:
What is this fruit from the point of view of botany? This is a drupe fruit, juicy, sweet, single-seeded. Representatives of some varieties reach 7-8 cm in length and 4-5 cm in width. Even though the date palm is a tropical / subtropical resident, some species can withstand frosts of -10 ..- 14 ° C.
During the fruiting period, the tree enters already in the 5th or 6th year of life, and from one young palm tree you can sometimes collect 7-9 kg of the crop. Adult specimens are famous for their fertility, for example, a fifteen-year-old tree (and this is the time of maturity for it) can produce 80 or 90 kg of fruit. Cultured varietal species, with a competent approach and care, can bestow a "gardener" 120-150 kg of juicy large fruits. Date palm can bear fruit for 50 or even 80 years.
Date palm, photo:
Fresh fruits can only be eaten in the country where they grow. They come to our store shelves already in dried, sometimes dried form, but already previously subjected to special processing. After drying and processing, not only their characteristic taste is preserved, but also all the valuable qualities of the product. Dried fruits have a pronounced sweet taste, however, they are not as high in calories as, for example, chocolates or other sweets.
In general, opinions about the caloric content of dried dates are often disputed in the relevant forums on the network. Someone claims that they are extremely high in calories. And someone, on the contrary, proves that for all its sweetness, this fruit contains very few calories and can be used as the main product for the diet.
Dried dates, photo:
We will consider the issues of calorie content and the date diet in more detail below, but for now let's pay attention to the most important aspect - the benefits and possible harm from eating these dried fruits.
Useful properties of dried dates
Let's start with the positive quality - these fruits are really very useful for the human body. Since ancient times, they have been used as an energy ingredient that gives strength in diseases. Syrups and infusions were made (and are now made) from fruits, even ointments to alleviate the condition for colds, sore throats, and coughs. The rich composition of useful elements makes it possible to make medicines based on these fruits for treating the eyes (conjunctivitis), genitals, inflammation of the abdominal cavity, and kidneys.
What are useful dried dates
- Fruits contain components that are detrimental to a wide range of different bacteria that attack the human body.
- They have a very positive effect on women's health: they facilitate the birth process, enhance uterine contractions during childbirth and partially reduce pain at the same time.
- This is the fruit that is simply indispensable for astronauts! It is stored for a long time and retains its positive properties, gives a surge of strength. Due to its high glucose concentration, dried fruit is just a great energy activator.
- The fiber content in the fruit helps to actively cleanse the colon.
- Gently lower blood pressure.
- The presence of vitamin A in their composition has a positive effect on vision, optimizes the thyroid gland.
- Their beneficial effect on the nervous system was noted. The use of these fruits strengthens it, relieves stress, a sense of anxiety (with relatively regular use in food).
- The content of vitamin B in the composition of fruits optimizes the development of the muscular system and its normal functioning.
- Phosphorus and iron, which are rich in dried fruits, improve appetite and greatly facilitate the manifestation of anemia (even its serious stage).
- A positive effect on the functioning of the liver is noted, and if these fruits are systematically consumed on an empty stomach (within reasonable limits, naturally), then they actively and destructively act on parasites and various helminthic invasions.
- In matters relating to the sexual sphere, systematic eating of fruits helps increase libido.
This delicacy is to some extent a medicine, as well as a very worthy ingredient for various culinary delights.
Selected dried fruits, photo:
The content of magnesium in them, which is known to be able to suppress the activation of cancer cells in the human body, is extremely valuable. With the regular use of dried dates in food, the body acquires a kind of shield, prevention from this terrible disease. Dried dates, the harm and benefits of which have already been studied by modern and traditional medicine, in addition to the above advantages, strengthen bone tissue, teeth, improve hair condition (help with loss). Their use accelerates the renewal of the skin (pulp is even used in cosmetology), heals cracks in the mucous membranes.
The fruits of the date palm are an excellent medicine for diseases of the respiratory system, relieve coughing, bronchitis, and improve sputum discharge. They relieve flatulence and work as a delicate laxative for constipation. With pain in the stomach and even with an ulcer, they significantly alleviate the condition, but specifically in this case, a doctor’s consultation is required.
By the way, if you have a cough, try in the morning (before eating) to take dried dates (10 pieces), remove seeds from them and boil for 10-15 minutes in 500 ml of milk. During the day, consume them inside between meals. In a week, the cough will go away, as it was not. And also all other manifestations of the common cold will disappear.
Harm of dates for the body
It is fair to mention this factor, despite the fact that in most cases these fruits are not only possible, but also desirable to eat. But, as always in everything, this business also has its limitations for a certain category of people.
The use of these fruits is contraindicated in such cases:
- If a person suffers from an acute form of diabetes. Dates contain approximately 50% sugar - this must be known and taken into account. Moreover, they quickly increase blood glucose levels.
- In addition to a high glycemic index, they are considered a high-calorie product, so it is better for people with obesity and overweight to consume these fruits.
- If a person has a tendency to caries, then, again, due to the high sugar content, cariosity can only increase. In addition to the aggressive effect of sugar on tooth enamel, in the presence of caries, eating sweet fruits can provoke pulpitis, literally in a short period of time (8-12 hours).
- If gastric diseases are in an acute stage, then it is better to refuse dates. This fetus always activates intestinal motility, thanks to dietary fiber in its composition. This factor can only aggravate an already serious condition, give impetus to a new round of the disease. In the acute form of gastritis or colitis, they can not be used.
- If you are very addicted to dates (which is not surprising because of their excellent taste), eat them daily and in plenty, then the appearance of headaches will not take long. The so-called "overdose" can not only provoke hypertension, but also cause a serious "blow" to the liver.
Remember that dried dates are always digested by our body. Eat them in the morning or afternoon, but at night it is better to refuse. And further. Do not use citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, lemons, grapefruits, etc.) and tomatoes at the same time. These gifts of nature contain acid, and when mixed with a large amount of carbohydrates contained in them, such a “cocktail” causes an extremely negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
Can I eat dates with diabetes?
This question, it seems to me, needs to be addressed in more detail. The fact is that those suffering from this disease severely limit themselves in the use of all kinds of sweets. Refuse confectionery, as if they did not want it. This disease requires a strict, sometimes strict diet, but from time to time all people want sweets - this is a normal desire.
As mentioned above, in acute forms of diabetes, dried dates should be excluded from the diet. Diabetics often try to replace the sweets that are familiar to everyone with the use of dried fruits, and dates relate to them. But what to do with high sugar in them? This is constantly debated among scientists, for example, Israeli doctors issued such a verdict - dates of the Majhol variety can be consumed with diabetes!
The process of collecting sweet fruit, photo:
However, the number of fruits should in no case exceed the norm of 100 g per day. In addition to glucose, which is dangerous for diabetics, dried fruits contain many useful components that have a beneficial effect on the body that has been tormented by constant treatment. Therefore, according to Israeli scholars, with a mild form of diabetes, you can very slightly feast on them (1 or 2 pieces per day). Naturally, after a detailed consultation with your doctor.
In severe or moderate form of diabetes, the use of sweet fruits, alas, is out of the question. Those who are undergoing insulin treatment need to consider that 4-5 pieces is about 20 XE (bread units).
How to eat dates - important nuances you should know
Below we will examine in more detail the benefits of dates and contraindications for the male and female body, but there are some “sore” questions that interest lovers of these sweet fruits.
How many dates can an ordinary person eat per day?
Despite the fact that this fruit has more pluses than minuses, it is better to observe the measure and not overeat. Within normal limits, the number of fruits per day for an adult should be approximately 7-8 pieces (but not more than 10). 1-3 times a day will be enough for a child, if you eat more, constipation can occur, since the fibers of the fruits have the ability to be digested by the body for a very long time (as we mentioned above).
Do I need to wash dates before use?
Very often in store windows we can see beautiful, shiny, as if amber fruits. So, no matter how clean and attractive they look, they must be washed. Firstly, they were collected manually, then (most likely) they were treated with sulfur dioxide. Keep in mind that almost all imported dried fruits are always processed with sulfur dioxide - to preserve the best appearance during transportation, and also to prevent different spider bugs. By the way, the bright and appetizing color of the dried fruit most often indicates that it was processed with this chemical.
In other cases, these fruits may be coated with fat-containing substances, so the issue of washing the fruit is not even discussed. Before eating, they must be washed thoroughly with hot water! By the way, the frequent cases of indigestion after their use are associated with poor-quality washing of fruits. The surface of this fruit is sticky - therefore, it attracts everything in a row, including harmful microorganisms. Therefore, wash, or better, soak them for some time in hot water.
Dates - how to choose?
In our country, they are most often sold in dried form. They are soft, hard or semi-soft to the touch. This factor often depends on at what stage of ripening the fruits were removed from the tree. Buy slightly soft, dried fruit with an intact skin. You should not take heavily skinned fruits - they will not be tasty and dry. If there is a white coating on top of it - it may be sugar or mold, in any case, you should not take such fruit.
Which dates are better to buy - you will be prompted by their appearance, slightly enlightened in the sun (lamp), moderately sticky (normal allocation of sugar), the surface should not shine too much (excessive gloss is fat or paraffin). The peel should be intact, if it is “injured”, then this is an indicator that the manufacturer saved on time, dried fruits not in the sun, as it should be according to the rules, but in a special chamber using sulfur gas.
How to store dates at home?
It is best to place the fruits in a cool place, the compartment of the refrigerator for vegetables and fruits is optimal. If you are a happy owner of large stocks of these fruits, then in a tightly closed plastic (or glass) container, in the cold, they can be stored for a whole year, and in the freezer - 4-5 years!
On sale, these fruits can be canned, dried or fresh - it is better to eat such copies immediately, canned ones usually have the storage date on the package. It is those fruits that are sold in bulk that can be stored for the longest time, which we talked about above.
How to store dates in a paper bag? Under such conditions, the fruits can be stored for about 2 months, again, in the refrigerator. Never leave the fruit where it will be exposed to direct sunlight, in a hot place or without protective packaging - it will deteriorate or dry very quickly.
Do dates strengthen or weaken?
If a person suffers from severe systematic constipation, then a different kind of treatment will be needed here. But as a mild laxative, in the form of stewed fruit or decoction, a dried date can ease this unpleasant phenomenon. These fruits are rich in vegetable fatty oils, it is they that have a delicate laxative effect. In addition, they inhibit the development of putrefactive microorganisms in the digestive tract, improve the process of intestinal motility, and normalize its microflora. The fact is that, due to its composition, these dried fruits not only help to cope with constipation (especially in the form of a decoction), but also stop the symptoms of diarrhea. The nicotinic acid contained in them improves digestive functions and helps get rid of a symptom of irritable bowel.
Composition of Dried Dates
The main component of these fruits is sugar, presented in the form of sucrose and glucose, and they are the main source of energy for our body. Depending on the variety and the state of its maturity, the sugar level may vary, but always remains high (the most “sugar” variety is as-sukkari). In addition to the above vitamins, these fruits contain tryptophan. This amino acid is responsible for the normal functioning of the brain, slows down the aging of its cells, and has a slightly soothing effect. Glutamine amino acid removes heartburn and neutralizes the increased acidity of the stomach.
Dried dates are not only a sweet tasty fruit, but also a natural, powerful source of proteins, potassium, sodium, iron, phosphorus, various vitamins, plant fibers, saccharides, minerals. Fatty oils, proteins, sulfur, magnesium, copper, calcium, carbohydrates, salts (15 varieties), manganese, boron, cadmium, cobalt, selenium, 23 types of amino acids, aluminum, riboflavin, pectin, pantothenic acid, fluorine - this is an incomplete list of substances contained in amazing fruit. These fruits do not contain cholesterol - another significant plus to the advantages and benefits of dried dates.
Dates - Calories
This dried fruit is an excellent substitute for candy or chocolate bar. It is proved that in comparison with the usual, all the usual sweets, these fruits contain much less calories.
How many calories are in dried dates - this question worries many people, especially those who monitor their weight and practice various diets. Very often opinions on this issue are shared. One fruit with a stone weighs about 5-10 g, while the average fruit will contain about 23 calories. If you call the extremely accurate figure, then the calorie content will be 292 calories per 100 g of fruit. And then decide for yourself whether this is a lot for you or normal.
Calculate your diet according to this indicator, at least this is the most accurate information. For comparison, just in case: 100 g of white bread contains from 250 to 380 kcal.
The calorie content of dried dates with seeds is 280 kcal / 100g. In fact, it is higher than that of those fruits in which the bone has been removed. In addition, “stone” specimens have more useful components, as a careful analysis shows. This factor is affected by fruit drying technology.
The calorie content of dried pitted dates is always slightly less, as well as the content of nutrients in them. In fruits with a removed bone, calorie content is 270 kcal.
The benefits of dates for the female body
A rather interesting and different effect is exerted by this fetus on the male and female body. Truly an amazing fruit, because the same composition “works” in both directions, and helps both, as they say.
If we consider the useful properties of dried dates for women, then first of all I want to note its high anticarcinogenic effect. Women after 40 years of age have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, a poor ecology, stress, private nerve shakes, and heredity affect this factor. So it’s worth noting that an ordinary date, introduced into the diet, can significantly reduce this risk and generally support the female body in every possible way precisely in this age period.
For those who experience monthly pain during critical days, dried dates can really help. Daily consumption of 5-8 fruits will reduce pain, give vitality (eliminate apathy and fatigue characteristic of this period). It is also worth trying in this case, a date decoction - the effect is often even better than from the simple use of fruits. They can also help those ladies who are on diets, because diets are often accompanied by stress for the body and, accordingly, constipation.
Useful dates during pregnancy, even recommended. Due to the content of the necessary components in a naturally true natural form, which contribute to the accelerated contraction of the uterine muscles and thereby facilitate the birth process. On the subsequent restoration of the female body after the birth of a child, the use of dates will also have only a positive effect.
Many people are interested in the question - can I use dates when breastfeeding? The answer will be yes - yes, you can. These fruits help to improve lactation, and the baby, along with breast milk, will receive the beneficial elements that they are so rich in. After all, the components of these fruits and the nervous system calm and contribute to the formation of teeth, strengthen bone tissue, increase immunity in general, and are responsible for the normal development of the brain.
Due to the content of folic acid in the composition of the fruits, the health of pregnant women, the process of childbirth, breastfeeding are improved, are much milder and easier. Take for example the Arab countries where dates are considered a revered fruit and are often eaten. A high birth rate and a low percentage of child mortality are a pretty good motivator and, very possibly, the use of these fruits is really very important in this case.
In appropriate forums, young mothers often also ask the question: is it possible for a nursing mother to have dates? And all because the body requires sweets, and doctors strongly recommend not to get involved in cakes and sweets. You can, of course, consume them in reasonable amounts - and treat yourself to sweets, and without harm to health.
An interesting fact is that this fetus contains a hormone that is very similar to oxytocin. This is another argument that for the health of pregnant women preparing for childbirth, dates are not only allowed, but also recommended. The main thing is to observe the dosage determined by the doctor, remember about possible allergic reactions and consult your doctor in everything.
Dates - good for men
From ancient times, facts were known when male warriors, going on a campaign, took with them the dried fruits of dates. They not only satisfied their hunger, supported their strength, but also healed wounds of varying severity, facilitated inflammatory manifestations, prepared the healing broth that was mentioned above. In those days, they already knew about the healing properties of these fruits and took them with them in large quantities.
Today, the influence of dates on the male body is still relevant and successfully used. For example, the use of these dried fruits has a positive effect on male potency, stops the inflammatory processes of the genitourinary sphere. Even for those guys who play sports and build muscle, dried dates help and are an excellent addition to a comprehensive, specially designed for athletes nutrition.
To increase the "male power", one glass of seedless fruit should be filled with 0.5 l of milk and add a teaspoon of cinnamon powder (without a hill). This mixture must be infused for 24 hours in a dark and cool place, and then eat the fruits, washed down with this milk. Cinnamon accelerates blood, and dates, as you already know, increase libido. You can take this "drug" every other day, for a month, then a positive result will not take long.
Even such a malaise as a hangover, by the way, is perfectly removed by date tea. Take 4 fruits, remove the seeds from them, mash with a fork and pour boiling water, wait 10-15 minutes, drink such tea and the body will immediately feel better. Nausea will go away, and a headache if it does not completely leave you (depends on how much you drank the day before), then it will significantly decrease. In order to maximize the effect of such a “treatment”, it is very advisable to drink this tea at least three times during the day.
Dates for losing weight, what are the benefits
When dieting, a person denies many familiar tasty and high-calorie (sometimes even harmful), but such favorite foods. And everyone always wants sweet things, so as not to feel stress from depriving themselves of the usual cakes or sweets, replace them with delicious and healthy dried dates. Experienced dieticians recommend eating no more than 10 fruits per day - such a dose will pacify the body's need for sweets, give strength and increase tone. Plus, the gastrointestinal tract will work fine, immunity will be maintained, there will be no constipation (a frequent companion of diets), and weight will gradually decrease.
Many people ask: is it possible to eat dates when losing weight, because they are high-calorie? The answer is yes, it is possible, but in the amount of a maximum of 10 pieces per day. Then nothing critical will happen either to your weight or to your health. This is natural sugar, a sweetness by nature, so feel free to (if there are no contraindications) introduce these fruits into your diet and replace them with usual sweets, cakes or cakes. One thing to understand - the date diet, in the direct sense of this value, is designed only for a healthy body, since it is quite rigid. I will not recommend it to everyone.
A date diet involves the use of a certain number of fruits and large volumes of clean water for several days. It is included in the category of mono-diet. In another case, it is not necessary to strictly limit yourself to dates and water; you can carefully introduce boiled chicken meat or fruits, vegetables (not containing starch) in small quantities into the diet.
Diet on dates
- In the first three days, 200 or 300 g of fruits are eaten, at least two liters of clean water should be drunk per day.
- Starting from the fourth day, apples or oranges (or grapefruits) should be added to the diet. During this period, the amount of fruit should no longer exceed 200 g per day.
- At one meal you should eat one fruit of medium or large sizes.
- This "course" of weight loss lasts 10 days. If it will be completely unbearable, then reduce the restrictions to at least 7 days.
The positive side of such a strict diet is, of course, losing weight. A small number of fruits, however, provides the body with useful elements, contributes to the burning of excess calories, while at the same time it positively affects the work of the heart muscle and brain. Despite these harsh conditions, immunity is strengthened, and weight is reduced from 3 to 6 kg.
As for the negative aspects, the first is, of course, stress for the body due to a lack of proper nutrition. Gastrointestinal problems may occur. Such a diet can not be carried out for more than 10 days and more than 1 time in 4 months. If you have kidney stones or gall bladder, such "weight loss" is strictly contraindicated for you. For migraines, diabetes and the above diagnoses, this method of weight loss cannot be used.
What are they made of dates?
Here, residents of Arab countries can give a head start to everyone, since this fruit is considered almost sacred to them, they love it and eat it everywhere and everywhere. In addition to date jam or date honey, which is also known to our compatriots, Arabs make delicious meat sauces, toppings for pies, pasta for spreading on bread.
Pumpkin-date sweets, photo:
Date bread with honey, cinnamon and ginger, photo:
Handmade date chocolate, photo:
Date halva, photo:
There is no need to talk about desserts: all kinds of jams, jellies, mousses, cocktails and yogurts with dates are loved by adults and children.
Date cocktail, photo:
Pilaf, alcoholic drinks, various stews - everywhere this healthy and popular fruit is put. By the way, sugar is also made from it, which is much healthier and tastier than the brown cane counterpart.
This is a tasty, healthy and healing product. Enter it in your diet and, possibly, dried dates, the benefits and harms of the body from which you are now also aware, will help you become more cheerful, healthier or even slimmer!