Summer is knocking on our doors, so is the season of dates. There is no clear evidence on when dates were cultivated first, it is assumed that around 7,000 to 8,000 years back dates were first cultivated in present day Iraq. Though fossil studies show that date palm has existed for more than 50 million years . Middle East and North Africa have been cultivating dates for thousands of years.
Fruits of paradise : Dates
Latin name: dactylus
Greek name : daktylos , finger , toe - as oval fruit resembles fingers
Botanical name : Phoenix dactylifera
Dates are tropical fruits, grown on a date palm tree. It grows in extreme climatic condition of dessert. There are many varieties of dates like khidri, ajwa, sokari to name few. Date cultivation is very important part of Middle East culture and means of livelihood for many.
Following are some benefits of eating dates :
1 Rich in antioxidants, reduces Inflammation
2 Fiber content improves digestion
3 Low on calories, help weight watchers
4 Full of minerals, good to keep body healthy
5 High iron content, maintains good hemoglobin level
6 Calcium content is good for bones
Nutritional facts :
A 100-grams serving of dates provides these nutrients:
Calories:270-280
Carbs:70-75 grams
Fiber:7-8 grams
Protein:1.7- 2 grams
Manganese:13-15 % of the RDI
Potassium:19-21% of the RDI
Magnesium: 13-14% of the RDI
Iron:4-5% of the RDI
Copper:17-18% of the RDI
Vitamin B6:11-12% of the RDI
Vitamin A : 1-1.2%
Calcium:2-2.5%
Rich in flavonoids, phenolic acid and carotenoids ( antioxidants)
Note: Diabetics should consult a doctor and avoid if allergic to fruit.
