This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.
Our teamof licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.
This delicious fruit is healthy and can be part of yourhealthy eating plan.
Shutterstock
As I grew up in Israel, dates are a regular part of my daily diet.
So, the best way to reap the benefits of eating dates is to consume them in healthy moderation.
Dates can help fight inflammation.
Shutterstock
Manystudieshave shown that dates have anti-inflammatory activities.
They help with immune function.
Selenium, a mineral found in this fruit, is needed to help withimmune function.
Shutterstock
One cup of chopped dates provides 4.41 micrograms of seleniumor 8% of the recommended daily value.
A 2020 systematic reviewlooked at the effects of date fruit on labor outcomes compared with routine care.
The data showed that eating dates can significantly reduce the active phase of labor.
Shutterstock
Duration of the other phases of labor and frequency of cesarean section had no effect.
Researchers concluded that there may be a link, but more research is needed.
They may help reduce your risk for heart disease.
Shutterstock
Dates providesoluble fiber, which can lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
Soluble fiber binds with the LDL cholesterol which prevents it from being absorbed into your blood.
Why Does Fiber Make You Poop?
Shutterstock
4 Reasons Why Dietary Fiber Helps Get Things Flowing
They have been linked to slower cancer risk.
Dates also contain powerful antioxidants, including carotenoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins.
Eating a diethigh in antioxidantshas been associated with a reduced risk for chronic diseases such ascancer.
Shutterstock
In addition, a2014 published studyfound that dates may help decrease the risk of colorectal cancer.
They may help lower your risk of diabetes.
Soluble fiber has many benefits, including helping to control blood sugar levels.
Shutterstock
A2013 studyon flavonoid compounds from dates showed improvements in diabetic rats.
Dates can help close nutrient gaps.
They can help fight bacteria.
Shutterstock
Dates and the elements that are present within the fruit have been shown to help control infection.
As folks don’t eat the leaves and pits of dates, more research is certainly needed.
You may put on a few pounds.
Is it possible to eat too much of a good thing?
In the case of this naturally dehydrated fruit, possibly.
Four dates (about 100 grams) provide a whopping 277 calories.
This can ultimately lead to weight gain.
So, to avoid this, be mindful of your portions when consuming dates, and maintain moderation.
