Dates: The ancient superfood revolutionising modern diets

In the Middle East, dates have been successfully used as a substitute for sweets for centuries. So, why should you include dates in your diet?

Dates are often called the "bread of life" for a reason. These modest fruits pack a substantial health punch. With their high simple sugar content, they provide a rapid energy boost, making them highly appreciated by athletes. Advocates of a healthy lifestyle highlight that dates are an excellent alternative to sweets—they reach for dates when they crave something sweet and add them to porridge, desserts, or cakes.

Due to their high sugar content, people with diabetes should be cautious when consuming dates. For everyone else, however, they make an ideal snack. The fruits contain a significant amount of fibre, so they are recommended for those suffering from constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.

Dates are also beneficial for individuals dealing with hyperacidity and heartburn, as they have alkaline properties and naturally neutralise stomach acids. Moreover, they are rich in iron (a great choice for those dealing with anaemia), niacin, potassium, magnesium, and folic acid. This combination is excellent not only for physically active individuals but also for expectant mothers.

Eating dates positively impacts the condition of your skin and eyes, thanks to their vitamins A, E, and K. The high levels of vitamins C and B6 are also important, especially during periods of reduced immunity.

Interestingly, dried dates, in particular, act like a "broom," preventing the deposition of cholesterol deposits. When eaten regularly (a few a day), they exhibit anti-atherosclerotic properties. They can also reduce the risk of a heart attack.

In the Middle East, dates are also considered a delicious aphrodisiac. This is unsurprising, given that they provide an instant energy boost.