JAKARTA – Most Indonesians are probably familiar with dates. This fruit with a sweet sweet taste is highly sought after, especially during the fasting month. Three dates are considered sufficient for breaking the fast plus a glass of water. This fruit is indeed closely related to the atmosphere of Ramadan and Eid.
However, there is nothing wrong with consuming dates outside of these two special moments, especially when consuming dates can bring health benefits. Dates, whether young (ruthob) or ripe (tamr), all bring health benefits.
Dates are a type of fruit that can grow at any time of the year. But generally, this fruit is often harvested in the fall or early winter in its home country. The reason is, because in winter this fruit is in its freshest condition. The fruit which is also often referred to as the fruit of the prophet is in fact rich in beneficial nutrients.
Reporting from the Hellosehat page, Monday (12/4/2021), in general, the main content of this fruit is simple carbohydrates (especially sugars, such as sucrose and fructose). Nearly 70% of dates consist of carbohydrates. Dates also contain several other sources of nutrients, such as:
– 7 grams of fiber
– 2 gram protein
– 20% of daily potassium requirements
– 14% of daily magnesium requirements
– 18% copper requirement
– 15% requirement of manganese
– 5% of daily iron needs
– 12% of daily vitamin B6 requirements
Not only that. Dates are also rich in calcium, iron, vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants such as carotene, phenolic, avanoids, and anthocyanins. Therefore, eating dates is not only looking for blessings for living the Prophet’s Sunnah. This fruit also has many health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Here are the benefits of dates for body health:
1. Good for digestion
Consumption of fiber is very good for digestion. Apart from the vegetables and fruit that you usually consume, you can also get fiber from dates. As reported by Healthline, in 100 grams of dates, there are 7 grams of fiber.
Fiber will help prevent constipation, stimulate bowel movements as well as nourish intestinal bacteria or digestive bacteria.
2. Sources of Antioxidants
In a review published in the Journal of Pharmacy & BioAllied Sciences, dates are said to have potential as a source of antioxidants and antimicrobials. Dates have been used as traditional medicine since ancient times.
3. Strengthen immunity
The antioxidant content in dates will help fight free radicals thus helping to strengthen immunity. Reporting from the Healthline page there are 3 types of the most potent antioxidants in dates, namely:
– Flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that is effective in reducing inflammation and has the potential to reduce the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer’s and some types of cancer.
– Carotenoids, proven to support heart health and reduce the risk of eye disorders.
– Phenolic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
4. Healthy brain
The brain also enjoys the benefits of consuming dates. In research published in the Neural Regeneration Reseach in 2016, researchers concluded that dates provide protection against inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
In research, it is stated that dates can reduce inflammatory markers such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the brain. High levels of IL-6 are associated with a high risk of neurodegenative diseases including Alzheimer’s. (E-4)
News source: RRI.co.id.
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