Sarah EatonMedjool dates, which come from the date palm tree, are a deep brown color with a flavor similar to caramel. They’re great for snacking, plus they make an excellent substitute for refined sugar in a lot of recipes. Furthermore, they boast an impressive amount of nutritional value, as well. For example, medjool dates health benefits include decreasing cholesterol as well as boosting your energy. But there is even more this food can do for your health. Learn more below!
Here are 6 medjool dates health benefits:
1. Decrease Cholesterol
Medjool dates health benefits include decreasing cholesterol levels. Too much cholesterol can lead to a buildup of plaque, but foods like medjool dates can help clear away this buildup and unclog arteries. (1)
In fact, a study out of Israel discovered that Medjool dates, as well as other date varities inhibit LDL oxidation. Researchers also found that most extracts from these dates also stimulated cholesterol removal from macrophages (a large white blood cell). (2)
If you’re looking to control cholesterol levels, reap medjool dates health benefits by adding this food to your diet today.
2. Prevent & Relieve Constipation
Due to the high fiber content, medjool dates health benefits include relieving constipation. Most adults need about 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily to prevent constipation. Consuming medjool dates can help in this department! (3)
3. Natural Energy Booster
If you need a pick me up or a boost before your workout, try medjool dates. Medjool dates health benefits include giving you the boost you need, due to their sugar content. Yes, they’re high in sugar, but it’s all natural sugar, like fructose, glucose, and sucrose. Ditch the coffee and reach for a medjool date, instead! (4)
Medjool dates health benefits can give you the jump-start you need when you’re facing the mid-afternoon slump. Just don’t overdo it, and you’re good to go!
4. Reduce Triglyceride Levels
Medjool dates health benefits include promoting a healthy heart, too! One study found that dates are high in antioxidative properites in vitro. Healthy subjects in the study consumed either Medjool or Hallawi dates for four weeks. Those who ate the Medjool dates saw a reduction in tryglylceride levels by 8 percent among participants. (5)
5. Alternative Natural Sweetener
You might have a hard time believing medjool dates are good for you. This is because their taste is comparable to candy. Just don’t overdo it and this food product will be guilt-free!
Because of their sweet quality, medjool dates health benefits include sweetening your dishes without compromising your health.
Research indicates a direct link between increased sugar consumption and increased rates of diabetes. (6) Opting to sweeten your dishes with foods like dates can help you stay on track and avoid diseases like diabetes.
6. Boost Bone Health
Preventing and treating osteoporosis is also one the list of medjool dates health benefits. Dates are high in calcium and phosphorus, both of which contribute to bone health. In fact, about 85 percent of the body’s phosphorus is bones and teeth. (7)
Be sure to soak in medjool date health benefits by adding these little beauties to your diet today! They are great as a snack, chopped up and added to your cereal, or as a sugar alternative in desserts!