D is for Dates

Alphabet of Healthy Foods – D is for Dates!

Continuing this series of the Alphabet of Healthy Foods today is D for Dates. 

Dates were one of the first fruits to be cultivated by man. They grow on the date palm tree and are a high carbohydrate fruit and taste extremely sweet. Fresh dates have more moisture than the dried fruit and the sugar is sometimes extracted and used as a sweetener by food manufacturers.

🌴 Fresh dates contain more Vitamin C than the dried variety.

🌴 Dried dates have a higher concentrated source of potassium, niacin, copper, iron, and magnesium than the fresh fruit.

🌴 Dates are a reliable source of fibre and can have a gentle laxative effect without causing any irritation to the bowel.

🌴 Unfortunately, dates may cause migraine because of their tyramine content which can be a trigger for migraine sufferers.

There is another reason moderation is important when eating dates. They contain such a concentrated amount of sugar which can lead to dental decay and even gum disease if eaten too often because the sugar content ferments easily in the mouth causing dental plaque.

I love dates, particularly the Medjool variety, which is large and tasty. If you remove the stone and replace it with half a walnut, they are delicious, nutritious, and great served with cheese as a treat. Remember not to eat dates too regularly. Below is an easy recipe for a lovely indulgence with that refreshing cup of afternoon tea.

RECIPE – Date and Pecan Cakes

150g dates

150g pecan nuts

Three tablespoons maple syrup

Remove the stones from the dates and chop them into small pieces. 

Put pecan nuts in a food processor until fine. Mix with the three tablespoons of maple syrup. Place a spoonful of the mixture on a tray covered with greaseproof paper. Put a half pecan in the centre of each. 

Cook for approximately 30 minutes at 170˚C, or 325˚F, or Gas Mark 3 or until they hold together. 

Cool on a wire tray. Delicious!

Live with joy and health 💚
Elizabeth Beetham