Dates

The date is a sweet, fleshy fruit that comes in many varieties. Dates grow to about an inch in length. The most commonly found date varieties available in the United States are Medjool, Deglet, Barhi, and Zahidi.

 

Dates are an excellent way to add more fiber to the diet. Although have a high [natural] sugar content, ranging from about 60% to 70%, they are one of the most alkaline foods. Dates are a great food to eat when trying to avoid or remove junk foods from the diet, especially unhealthy and refined sugars. Some even say dates are sweeter than white table sugar.

 

Dates are an excellent source of B vitamins (niacin, B6, riboflavin, thiamine, and pantothenic acid), as well as copper, potassium, manganese, magnesium, iron, and phosphorous. They also contain trace minerals zinc and selenium.

 

Dates help to soften the stool and helps with colon elimination. Recent research also shows that dates are rich in antioxidants.

 

Dates are usually soft or semi-soft, glossy, plump and they may appear wrinkled. Avoid dates that are cracked, dry, and broken. It is best to store dates in an airtight plastic bag or container. They will keep for up to 7 or 8 months, if refrigerated.

 

For unpitted dates, be sure to remove the pits by cutting the fruit open and simply pulling the pits out. Date pits are very hard, so make sure you double-check.

 

Some serving ideas for dates:

 

 

 

Thank you for reading.