7 Reasons Why Dates Are Amazing For Your Health (Even After Ramadan)
With over twenty references in the Holy Quran, under the Quranic Arabic names of Nakhl and Nakhil, dates are one of the most important foods in Islam. And during the month of Ramadan, excitement around dates reaches fever pitch.
So what is it about these delicious fruits that is so important and why is it so widely mentioned in religious texts? It's time to start doting over dates!
7 Surprising Facts About Dates
- High in key nutrients 💊
Dates are an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A and K. In fact, even just a few dates can provide a large portion of your daily recommended intake of these essential nutrients.
- Brilliant for your digestive health 🍴
With a healthy dose of fibre, dates help to promote regular bowel movements and prevent horrible constipation. Additionally, the soluble fibre in dates can help to promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut and maintain a healthy microbiome.
- Boosts energy levels ⚡️
Dates are a brilliant source of natural sugars, which is balanced by their high fibre content, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A more sustained release means that energy is provided for longer and doesn't cause unwanted spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels.
- Great for weight loss 💪
Dates can also be a helpful food for those looking to shed a few pounds. Despite their sweet taste, dates are relatively low in calorific content but high in fibre. This means that they can help to keep you feeling full for longer periods of time, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
- Promotes heart health ❤️
With high levels of potassium, dates can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. They even contain antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation, which is a common and significant risk factor for heart disease.
- Boosts brain function 🧠
Struggling with brain fog? Try some dates! They are a remarkable source of vitamin B6, which is essential for many neurological reactions in your brain. Its antioxidants can also help to protect the from long-term oxidative stress.
- Helps you sleep like a log! 💤
Not many people know, but dates are a great source of the amino acid tryptophan, which the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin - two hormones that are super important for regulating sleep. So, if you're looking for a natural way to improve your sleep, consider adding a few (but not too many!) dates to your evening routine.
Hadiths Mentioning Dates
The Prophet (pbuh) said, "Amongst the trees, there is a tree, the leaves of which do not fall and is like a Muslim. Tell me the name of that tree." Everybody started thinking about the trees of the desert areas. And I thought of the date-palm tree but felt she to answer. The others then asked, "What is that tree, O Allah's Messenger (pbuh)?" He replied, "It is the date-palm tree." [Bukhari]
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “He who eats seven Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them.” [Bukhari]
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “When one of you breaks his fast, let him break it with dates for they are blessed. If they are not found, let him break it with water for it is pure.” [Tirmidhī]
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