Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) recommended us to break the fast with fresh or dry dates. Today it is proven that Dates are rich in fiber, potassium and other nutrients. When we study the nutritional facts and the health benefits of this amazing fruit from the date palm, we will realize that it is indeed a must have fruit after fasting for hours in Ramadan as well as in other months. It is also recommended in a Hadith to eat dates on daily basis at morning.
Provide A Rapid Energy Source
Dates are comprised of a large proportion of simple sugars, being mainly in the form of glucose and fructose, which are used heavily for energy by the body. Consuming a few dates prior to exercise or strenuous activity ensures that your brain and muscles have enough energy to perform at a high intensity.
Dates Improve Bone Health
There are plenty of foods that supply calcium, which dates have, but there are far fewer that supply Vitamin K, an important co-factor in blood clotting and necessary for proper bone mineralization. Dates also contain magnesium, another mineral that helps to reinforce the structural integrity of bone tissue.
Reduce The Risk Of Developing Colon Cancer
Dates have proven themselves to be beneficial on all these factors, promoting regularity, helping nourish your intestinal bacteria and decreasing the body’s inflammatory response. Colon polyp formation is reduced, which while benign, do have the potential of turning cancerous under the right conditions.
Help Relieve Constipation
Dates are used traditionally in many parts of the world as a natural laxative to relive occasional constipation. Their use as natural laxatives is likely due to their high levels of soluble fiber, which absorb water as it transits through the intestinal tract. When it eventually enters the colon, the remnants of this fiber hydrate hardened feces and allow easy expulsion.
Prevent Heart Diseases
These dried fruits are rich in antioxidants, which may help prevent atherogenesis and aid in reducing risk of stroke. They are also high in various phytochemicals which may also help protect against heart disease.
Furthermore, they are a rich source of potassium, which studies have shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke as well as other heart-related diseases.
Prevent Night Blindness
Vitamin A deficiency is often linked to night blindness, along with other symptoms like dry eyes and an increased risk of infection. According to an article by H.A. Hajar Al Binali, M.D., dates are rich in carotenoids, which may help prevent night blindness and preserve healthy vision.
Cures Anaemia
Anaemia is characterized by unusually low quantity of red blood cells in the human body and is caused by the deficiency of iron. Dates contain an impressive level of iron which makes them the perfect home remedy for treating iron deficiency. Consumption of dates on a regular basis can greatly boost the amount of iron in the blood. The high level of iron not only balances out the inherent lack of iron in anaemic patients but also increases strength and vitality.
