Why you should start your morning with this 8,000-year-old fruit

Dates are one of the oldest fruits dating back 8,000 years as a staple in the Babylonian diet. They are mainly grown in North Africa and Israel in a variety of types like honey yellow, red, and brown which is the most common type.

Varieties

If you have ever eaten dates, it is likely that you had the mahogany brown Medjool which is sweetest and tastes a bit like toffee. They are available in fresh (November to January) or dried rich deep flavour and chewy texture.

Apart from the palatable experience, there are other benefits to eating dates, especially in the morning.

Preparation and storage

There are different ways to eat dates, eating from the box or letting them soak in tea.

Store fresh dates in an airtight container in a fridge, and store dried dates in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months.

Here are some benefits of having dates in the morning.

Blood cleansers and boosters

Dates are rich in iron which is essential in blood flow regulation and preventing anemia.

Energy

Eating dates in the morning helps clear fatigue and tiredness. If you cannot get a cup of coffee, reach for a box of dates. They are full of natural healthy sugars that replenish energy levels.

Vitamins and minerals

Dates are great sources of minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. They also carry high vitamin C content. For people with blood pressure and bone health issues, dates make great morning companions for your health.

Reduce bad cholesterol

Before putting anything else in your body, eating dates can act on bad cholesterol and bring it down to low levels in the body. This can safeguard against heart ailments and clean your blood.