Updated on March 12, 2017


March 12, 2017
Dried dates are excellent, but have too many calories
Posted by Alberto Roycor Updated on March 12, 2017

Dried dates

Dried dates are excellent, but they have many calories.

Dried dates are a good source of carbohydrates. They bring a lot of energy to the organism and are an ideal food to endure long trips. They are also recommended for the practice of sports or to better cope with the work of much physical wear and tear. As well have a mild laxative effect because of its fiber content. So it helps to regulate the intestinal transit and to prevent constipation. This healthy properties are due to its big contents of soluble and insoluble fiber,

Dried dates are an excellent source of potassium, calcium, iron and provitamin A (beta-carotene) and niacin or B3.  Both are natural pigments that take care of the health of the sight and prevent degenerative eye diseases like cataracts. Vitamin C, in great amounts in fresh fruit, is lost during drying. The utilization of the calcium of these foods is worse than the one that comes from the dairy or other foods that are good source of this mineral. Of its mineral value, potassium stands out: In synergy with niacin (vitamin B3), promotes good nervous and muscular functioning, promoting good psychomotor coordination.

Dried dates are one of the sweetest fruits.

About 70 percent of their weight can be of rapid absorption carbohydrates, or to say it simpler, sugar. Consequently, they provide an important source of calories. The should be only needed by highly active people without many other sources of nutrition. Dried dates have been cultivated for more than four thousand years in the Middle East, and in the desert like regions of North Africa. The grow in many other places. Nevertheless, in the developed countries, dates have to be consumed in moderation.

Despite its excellent properties (almost 0% fats, high fiber contents, important source of potassium, its 277 calories per 100 grams (66 calories per piece of fruit, per date) dried dates makes it a non recommended fruit for weight loss plans.

The habitual consumption of dried dates can favor the appearance of dental caries. The sticky consistency of the dried fruits makes them adhere to the dentures, so it is advisable to brush the teeth after consuming them.