TEMRI

Dates are a fruit that grows on the date palm tree, Phoenix dactylifera, which is native to North Africa and the Middle East. They have been an important ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine for thousands of years, and have been considered healthy since at least 4000 B.C. . Dates are oval-shaped, with thin skin and a creamy, sticky interior. They are light to dark brown in color, and have a flavor similar to honey, caramel, and brown sugar. 

Bon Appetit

What Are Dates, and Why Are They So Awesome? | Bon Appétit

Apr 24, 2018

Health

Health Benefits of Dates - Nutrition

Jun 14, 2023 — Dates are a fruit cultivated from date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), a plant native to the Middle East and North Africa. 1 Dates have a natural sweetness and rich flavor that people often associate with dessert. Dates are nutritious fruits with potential benefits. Research has found that dates help support brain, digestive, and heart health. 234 Dates are a source of antioxidants that may protect against disease and help ease natural labor. 15. Here are six ways dates can protect your health and simple ways to incorporate the fruit into drinks, meals, snacks, and treats. OatmealStories / Getty Images.

Vogue

Are Dates Actually Healthy? The Truth This Natural Sugar - Vogue

Apr 9, 2024 — What exactly are dates, anyway? Dates are the fruits of the date palm and have been considered a healthy and important ingredient in the Middle East, where they originated, since at least 4000 B.C. Their shape can be described as an elongated and oval—a little like an oversized, plump raisin. The color can vary depending on the variety, but is always light to dark brown. The dried fruits have thin skins and are sticky and creamy inside, with a consistency similar to dried figs or prunes. The main flavor notes are caramel, honey, and brown sugar. Watch the 2024 Met Gala Red Carpet.

Dates are high in fiber, potassium, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. They may have several health benefits, including:

  • Fiber: Can help with digestion and prevent constipation

  • Antioxidants: May help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease

  • Potassium: Helps muscles contract, nerves function, and hearts beat regularly

  • Soluble fiber: Helps keep cholesterol in check 

Dates are often associated with dessert, and can be eaten with dinner or between raisins and prunes in the grocery store. 

DATES

While dates are packed with nutrients, they are also high in calories. A serving of four dates has just under 270 calories. Some recommend eating five to six dates per day, but others say that eating too many can lead to high sugar levels and diabetes.