Proven Health Benefits of Dates

High in Fiber

One of the most popular advantages of dates is that they are rich in fiber, which ensures that your digestive system is running smoothly. The amount of fiber in 100 grams of dates varies between 3.5 and 11 grams, depending on the variety. Most of this is insoluble fiber, which helps move food through your digestive system, so dates are an effective remedy for constipation. 

Support Healthy Gut Bacteria

Dates is considered as a prebiotic and feeds the beneficial gut bacteria Bifidobacterium, which has shown in scientific research to increase healthy bacteria in the gut, and dates consumption aids colon and bowel health. 

Can Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Eating dates can also protect against colorectal cancer by aiding the gut with better digestion, and improving its health. 

Reduces Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Particularly, Medjool dates are replete with phenolic compounds which help in cholesterol and triglyceride management. Triglycerides are the fats in your blood that increase the risk for heart disease. Although dates have a natural level of sugar content, studies prove that the ingestion of Medjool dates did not increase the level of triglycerides. However, they were found to greatly decrease it. 

Antiatherogenic Properties

Dates can also aid in the prevention of atherosclerosis, when fats and cholesterol deposit on arterial walls. According to researchers, dates are classified as an "antiatherogenic nutrient," since they prevent or slow the accumulation of arterial plaques, helping improve cardiovascular well-being.

Beyond simply being a tasty, naturally sweet snack, dates are a functional food full of health benefits. Improved digestion is just the beginning, helping to avoid heart disease and even maybe cutting the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Fresh or dried, Medjool or other varieties, adding dates to your diet is easy, delicious, and really, really good for you.