Around 2 years ago, after my family and I visited Jerusalem, we bought a lot of dates and after Saniya did a lot of research she started adding dates instead of sugar in her smoothies. She would eat dates as a snack daily.
I myself would eat dates usually only in Ramadan as when eaten, they replenish energy and revitalize the body instantly. For these qualities, they are traditionally served to break the fast during Ramadan month since ancient times.
I decided to do more research and add it to my diet, when I had the urge for something sweet. It helps curb the craving. I still do eat chocolate but I have cut it down.
I carry a few dates in my bag daily with a handful of mixed nuts. Its a great snack and is full of beneficial nutrients. They are high in sugar and calories, so moderation is key.
The Date is a fruit and is high in dietary fiber it has 6.7 grams in 100 grams. It works as a laxative, helping with constipation. They contain antioxidants known as tannins, which are anti-inflammatory.
Dates have a lot of iron, about 0.90 mg/100 g they are excellent sources of potassium. 100 g contains 696 mg. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that help regulate heart rate and blood pressure. They thus offer protection against stroke and coronary heart diseases.
Dates have 54mg of magnesium helping against anxiety and 64 mg of calcium, helping with strengthening bones.
Yum! Dates in smoothies seems like a good sugar substitute.. I’ve been looking for healthier ice cream alternatives and have been having a lot of the Halo Top brand recently because of the low calories. I’ve heard that a lot low calorie of items use harmful ingredients such as erythritol. Would love to hear your advice on this!
Thanks Ali, will post on sugar and its substitutes in my next blog