With Ramadan here, fastidious preparations are made by Muslims, one of which entails the purchasing of bulky quantities of dates.
Science now proves the worth of fruits, which the ancient Arabs considered a staple food in their diet. Some of the benefits of dates are listed below:
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Promoting Digestive Health, Relieving Constipation:
Dates are often categorized as a laxative food. This is why they are so frequently eaten by people suffering from constipation. They have high levels of soluble fibre, which is essential in promoting healthy bowel movements and the comfortable passage of food through the intestinal tract, which can relieve symptoms of constipation.
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Bone Health and Strength:
The significant amounts of minerals found in dates make it a super food for strengthening bones and fighting off painful and debilitating diseases like osteoporosis.
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Anaemia:
Dates have a high mineral content, but their impressive levels of iron make them a perfect dietary supplement for people suffering from anaemia.
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Energy Booster:
Dates are high in natural sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose. Therefore, they are the perfect snack for an immediate burst of energy. Many people around the world use dates for a quick afternoon snack when they are feeling lethargic or sluggish. No wonder Muslims break their fast with dates.
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Boosting Heart Health:
In addition to promoting colon health, fibre is also known to boost heart health. Studies have shown that dates reduce the risk of stroke and other heart related diseases.
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Anti-Inflammatory:
Dates are rich in magnesium – a mineral known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies show that magnesium can effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, Arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and other inflammation-related health ailments.
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Reduced Blood Pressure:
One of the most common ailments in today’s era; blood pressure can also be lowered by magnesium– and again, dates are full of this mineral.
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Abdominal Cancer:
Research has pointed towards dates being a legitimate way to reduce the risk and impact of abdominal cancer.
Further to this, many hadiths report that the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) encouraged the consumption of dates:
He (peace be upon him) said:
“Break your fast by eating dates as it is purifying.” (Narrated by Ahmad)
In another narration, Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Indeed in dates there is a cure”. (Reported by Muslim and Ahmad)
Dates are full of benefits, yet our intentions ought to be pure, and we should eat dates with the intent of following a sunnah.
Indeed, the religion of Islam is beautiful and recommends for us only that, which is beneficial to us.
