The Health Benefits of Dates
Dates are like giant raisins. At least, that’s what I thought when I was younger, hence why I did not want to eat them very much. Oh, I liked raisins no problem, but great big raisins were just too… sticky or healthy or something like that…
Really the only way I liked them, was in my Mom’s date squares. One word – heaven! The “giant raisins” were mashed up nicely on a bed of oats and brown sugar… and topped off just the same! YUM! I didn’t care they were kinda good for me, I just loved the taste.
Dating back to ancient times (no pun intended here) dates were often considered as a gift of sweetness in biblical times and were often brought by kings and queens to other kings and queens. They are part of the family of palms (another reason I must like them – I love palms). Grown in middle eastern areas and warmer climates around Western countries, dates are an excellence source of fiber, potassium and manganese (good for headaches). Their mineral content is great for bones, increases energy, stamina and also help with vision. Great for building muscle due to their heavy vitamin and mineral content, dates are a superfood for athletes and those wanting to increase their energy. Their incredible sweetness makes this historic “sugar” extremely versatile for baking, cooking and eating on their own. Dates are almost all fructose… making them a quick digestible sugar and very, very sweet. They are a nice alternative to sugar and hey… a little sweetness never hurts anyone – especially on a date!
I love smoothies, so here is a delicious recipe using dates! Fuel up!
Cashew Cocoa Date Smoothie
1 cup cashew milk (your own homemade or a good organic brand) OR almond milk if preferred
1/2 cup ice or very cold water
1 Tablespoon organic dark cocoa powder
5 or 6 Medjool dates raw
6-8 almonds raw
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Blend all ingredients into a blender or mixer and serve immediately. ENJOY!
