These are the benefits of dates for body health
KONTAN.CO.ID – JAKARTA. Dates are good for consumption when breaking the fast in the month of Ramadan. Because this fruit has many good benefits for health.
A number of studies have also proven that the health benefits of dates are not only for those who are fasting, but also for those who are on a diet.
Launching Healthline, Saturday (4/25/2020), the most commonly consumed date varieties are Medjool and Deglet Noor dates.
Also Read: This is a good time to drink coffee while observing the Ramadan fast
The following are the benefits of dates for good health to be consumed during iftar or sahur during the month of Ramadan.
Dates are rich in nutrients
Dates have an excellent nutritional history. Because, this fruit is dried, so that the calorie content of dates is higher than most fresh fruit.
The calorie content of dates is similar to other dried fruits, such as raisins and figs. Although they contain high calories in fiber, dates also contain several important vitamins and minerals.
Apart from this, according to the National Institute of Health (NCBI), dates are also high in antioxidants, which contribute to many health benefits.
Dates are high in fiber
During fasting, fiber needs for the body must also be met. Getting enough fiber is very important for health.
By consuming one serving of dates around 100 grams, during fasting, the intake and what is needed by the body can increase. Benefits and very good for digestive health, namely preventing constipation.
In a study of 21 people who consumed 7 dates per day for 21 days, experienced a significant increase in frequency of bowel movements compared to when they did not eat dates.
Furthermore, the benefits of dates apart from being rich in fiber, also have benefits in controlling blood sugar. This is because fiber can slow down digestion and can help prevent blood sugar levels from spiking too high after eating.
So, the content of dates is very good for consumption after eating, both during fasting and dawn.
The antioxidants of dates help fight disease
In a research journal published by NCBI, showing evidence of the content of dates which are very good for the body. Dates (Phoenix dactylifera) provide a variety of antioxidants that have many health benefits, including a reduced risk of several diseases.
Also Read: Foods and drinks that should be avoided during Ramadan fasting
Antioxidants can protect the body’s cells from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause dangerous reactions in the body.
Compared to similar types of fruit, such as figs and dried plums, dates appear to have the highest antioxidant content.
There are three important and most powerful antioxidants contained in one date. Flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
Its benefits have been well researched in reducing the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and some cancers.
The carotenoids in dates have also been shown to improve heart health, as well as reduce the risk of eye-related disorders, such as macular degeneration.
The phenolic acid in dates is known as a natural anti-inflammatory that can help lower the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Improve brain function
Eating dates, either while fasting, dieting or every day can also be good for brain health.
Studies conducted in the laboratory found dates to be useful for reducing symptoms of inflammation, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the brain. High levels of IL-6 are associated with a risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
In addition, animal studies have also shown the benefits of dates in reducing the activity of the beta amyloid protein, which can form plaque in the brain.
Increase the potential for normal delivery
In a study conducted on 69 pregnant women who consumed six dates per day for four weeks before delivery, showed a 20 percent chance of giving birth normally.
Another study also showed that 154 pregnant women who consumed dates, were less likely to get induction during labor, compared to those who did not eat dates.
Dates are known to contain tannins, which are compounds shown to aid in natural contractions. Dates are also a good source of natural sugars and calories, which pregnant women need to maintain their energy during labor.
Dates are a natural sweetener
Fructose is a type of natural sugar found in fruit and the highest content of this natural sweetener is in dates.
If when breaking the fast it is recommended to eat sweet foods, dates are the right fruit because they contain natural sweeteners that are good for the body.
Revealed For this reason, dates have a subtle caramel-like taste. They make a healthy substitute for sugar, which is rich in fiber and antioxidants that are good for the body.
It is important to note that although dates are high in fiber and rich in nutrients, they are still quite high in calories, so they are best consumed in moderation.
Benefits of dates for bone health
One of the benefits of dates with a phosphorus content in them is considered good for bone health. Apart from phosphorus, other mineral content in dates are potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
All the potency contained in these dates has been studied in preventing bone related conditions like osteoporosis. Dates have been claimed to have several other health benefits that have not been extensively studied.
However, consuming dates during breaking the fast or dawn, or when dieting has good health benefits. (Holy Kartika Nurwigati Sumartiningtyas)
Also Read: Too often eating fried foods can lead to deadly diseases and obesity
This article has been published on Kompas.com with the title “These are the Benefits of Dates for Health When Breaking the Fast and Sahur”,