Dates are relatively common, but how much do we actually know about this fruit? They are often used as a sugar substitute in smoothies and desserts and can also be stuffed with cheese, wrapped in bacon, and baked in the oven. They are an extremely delicious treat, but here are a few fun facts and benefits about them we bet you didn’t know.
Background of Dates
Dates are fruits that grow on the date palm tree. They are native to Northern Africa and the Middle East. The plant is very resilient and able to survive in high desert temperatures. Today, dates are grown in some U.S. states like Arizona, California, and Florida.
Cooking with Dates
Dates are commonly used for making desserts, but you can also snack on them raw. You can find date sugar which is a great replacement for other sugars. Dates are a perfect ingredient to add to energy bars or balls when mixed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Fun Health Facts
Dates come with so many nutritional and health benefits. They are a great source of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and vitamin B6. These nutrients make them amazing for promoting brain health and overall health.
Dates are great for pregnant women, too, since they can help with contractions and promote labor by the end of pregnancy.
