Medjool dates are probably the most common dates found in your local supermarket. Medjool dates are actually a fresh fruit, although many people think of them as a dried fruit due to their appearance and texture. If you are having a hard time finding them while grocery shopping, make sure to check the produce section! I don't have much knowledge or experience with other types of dates (and there are lots of them) but what I love most about medjool dates is that they have a really tasty caramel like flavor, they are soft and chewy, and they are very versatile in baking.
Health Benefits
- A healthy source of carbohydrates that will fuel you and energize you
- Packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals such as; potassium, magnesium, copper, iron, vitamin B6, selenium, and manganese
- Contains different antioxidants. Carotenoids which are good for the health of your heart, your immune system, and may help reduce the risk of developing different eye disorders or diseases. Flavonoids which help reduce inflammation in the body, and may help reduce the risk of developing different diseases, Alzheimer's, and certain cancers. Phenolic Acid which promote an anti-inflammatory response in your body, and helps fight against heart disease.
- Improves brain function, and can help prevent plaque from forming on the brain which can lead to brain function disruption and disease
- Can help promote natural labor and may reduce labor time
- They are a natural sweetener, and can be a great sugar substitute in baking
Dates are higher in sugar but due to the fact they are also high in fiber this combination actually helps prevent your blood sugar from spiking. The same is true if you pair a date with a protein, such as nuts or nut butter! Here is a great little treat you can make with dates that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but it will also energize you and benefit your health!
Peanut Butter Date Bombs
Ingredients:
Medjool dates, peanut butter or the nut butter of your choice (preferably one that is just the nut and salt), and dark chocolate
Directions:
1. Carefully open the date and remove the pit if there is one
2. Using a knife or small spoon fill the date with peanut butter
3. Place in the fridge or 10-15 minutes to set
4. Melt dark chocolate either in the microwave or on the stove while you are the PB dates are in the fridge
5. Dip your dates into the chocolate, as little or as much as you want. I just dipped one end this time around. You can also sprinkle a little sea salt on top if you want a sweet/salty combo!
6. Place back in the fridge so the chocolate can set. Store in a covered container in the fridge.
7. Enjoy!!
Other ways to use dates:
-Eat them plain or accompanied with nuts for an energizing snack
- Make raw balls or energy bites (Pinterest is a great resource for recipes)
- Add them to smoothies as a natural sweetener
- Chop them up and add them to salads
- Add them to homemade granola or on top or oatmeal
I never thought I would be such a lover of dates, but they are just so yummy and healthy! Do you like dates? What is your favorite way to enjoy them? Let me know!
Katie
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