Pages

Sunday, September 24, 2017

The Power of Dates

Dates have been used as sweeteners, snacks and and even used as breaking "fast" by Muslims according to their culture.  By doing this it helps in not overeating of food once the fast is over.  Dates are easily digested, allowing our bodies to make full use of all the minerals and nutrients they contain.  The dietary fiber helps move waste through the colon reducing the risks of colon cancer.  The soluble and insoluble fiber and amino acids help to improve and maintain a healthy digestive system.  The iron content in dates is a major component of hemoglobin in our red blood cells, which helps in maintaining healthy oxygen levels in the blood.  Potassium, which is a an electrolyte, in dates helps control heart rate and blood pressure.  All the B vitamins such as carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are absorbed into the retina to maintain light-filtering functions and protect against macular degeneration.  

Despite all these benefits, one cup of dates has almost 30 mg's of fructose sugar , but have a low glycemic index number which can maintain blood sugar level significantly.  Dates are a whole food, but by weight they are 80% sugar. Fruit Loops are 40% sugar, but not a whole food but highly processed along with many other "nonfood" products.  Israeli scientists did some research on the subject and the results were astonishing: Dates are fantastic!  Some consider dates are the most ideal food!

By just eating 3 dates per day here some of the many benefits obtained:
*Improved digestive health- the high soluble fiber draws water into the digestive tract.
*Treat and prevent anemia- they are a great source of iron which reduces the effects of anemia.
*Bone, blood and immune system health- keeps bones strong with magnesium, manganese and selenium. Diets rich in selenium are known to prevent cancers.
*Heart health- the potassium helps to reduce strokes, heart attacks and lowers LDL cholesterol.
*Energy boosts- being filled with natural sugars and fiber keeps energy levels up without the crash.

Here's a quick, easy and raw recipe for an energy shot that I use all the time: AROO Spartan Balls.
For some more information on the "Power of Dates" here's a great article from Organic Facts.

AROO Spartan Balls

Food for Thought

Have a great week.
Be kind.
Judd

No comments:

Post a Comment