Dates: Nutrition . Selection . Storage
Nutrition information for dates and tips on how to
select, store and prepare them. Health Benefits
select, store and prepare them. Health Benefits
 In traditional ancient diets, a bowl of dates was offered on the table at each meal as a sign of hospitality from the host to his guest. A date would often accompany a cup of coffee or tea which were consumed unsweetened so the date could provide the desired sweetness and complement the drink. The custom continues today in many cultures. How to Select
Choose dates that are shiny, uniformly colored and not broken.
How to Store
Store dates at room temperature in an airtight container for several months or refrigerate for up to a year.
Nutrition Benefits
Dates are fat free, saturated fat free, cholesterol free, sodium free, and a good source of fiber (1/4 cup provides 12% of the daily value for fiber). Dates also provide 8% of your daily potassium recommendation and 6% of your daily manganese recommendation in a ¼ cup.
Antioxidant Quality of Dates
Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), dates are higher in total polyphenols than any of the most commonly consumed fruits or vegetables. The reason for this is due to a harsh desert environment (where dates are grown), which causes polyphenols to provide protection from oxidative stress to the palm’s fruit.
Other Attributes of Dates
Courtesy of California Date Commission |
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Health Benefits of Fruits & Vegetables
The natural antioxidants in fruits and vegetables will help keep your body working at its best, so consuming a diet that meets your daily recommended amount of fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to give your body a strong defense against disease. Fruits and vegetables are protective to health as they’re helpful at reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and some cancers. They’re also low in calories, which helps prevent obesity … a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
