Dates are drupes (stone fruit) from the area around the Persian Gulf. In ancient times they were brought from Mesopotamia to Egypt and then cultivated there.
Later they came via North Africa to Spain – and form there in 1765 to America and California.
Dates are rich in fibre and thus support the digestive system. They are good for lowering cholesterol and have a high iron content useful in anaemia. Dates are also rich in potassium which helps maintain a healthy nervous system.
Dates are also a good source of selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that supports the function of the thyroid and the immune system.
Other nutrients in dates: vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin.
Dates have a warming effect and can help to relieve sore throats, colds and bronchitis.
Dates are a good alternative to traditional sweets, for example if enjoyed with an almond instead of the kernel, the craving for something sweet will be soothed while being provided with potassium and magnesium (both excellent stress reducers) at the same time.