- Dates are very rich in nutrients and vitamins.
- Thanks to their fibre, dates ensure that the fructose they contain causes blood sugar levels to rise more slowly–thus can help prevent diabetes.
- Dates can have a positive effect on the body for the following illnesses–intestinal complaints, fever, bronchitis, wound healing and their antibacterial and antiseptic effect.
Fresh vs. dried dates
There is a clear distinction between fresh and dried dates. The packaged fruit that we know from the supermarket is actually always dried. They have more sugar per gram due to the water that has been removed. In comparison, fresh dates have a higher vitamin content too.
Do dates aid in weight loss?
Dates can help to gradually wean the body off its craving for industrial sugar and thus contribute to a healthier diet. They are also ideal for snacking in between meals, helping cravings disappear. The high fibre content also keeps you full for longer. Dagmar von Cramm also notes, "If you eat too much, you put on weight. And if you eat dates and forget to drink a lot, you risk constipation, but that happens with all dried fruit. With enough fluid intake, they are good for digestion and the body. If you can't tolerate fructose, you can get flatulence."
3 simple recipes with dates
Dates can be used in many different ways in the kitchen. The most popular varieties–as a natural sugar substitute in the form of syrup for baking, in coffee or for sauces.
Tips for preparation: If the dates are too hard, soak them in a little water and then process them. A wide knife or fork is suitable for mashing them. The palm fruits can also be used as a puree for cake batters or for homemade bread.
1. Dates with peanut butter
If you fancy something sweet and want a healthier alternative, you can prepare dates with peanut butter. Cut the fruit lengthwise, remove the pit and add some peanut butter paste using a teaspoon. Finally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
2. Date and leek dip
As a spread, with vegetable sticks or whatever you fancy–a date and leek dip offers the perfect balance of salty and sweet flavours. Chop or puree the pitted dates and then chop the leek. Mix with cream cheese and season with salt, pepper and a little turmeric.
3. Dates in a smoothie
Dates are also perfect in a smoothie. It is best to combine the dried fruit with less sweet ingredients such as berries, spinach or kale to achieve a balanced result. Add a little water, blend and you're done.
This article first appeared on vogue.de
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