Dates

Dates have been around since the times of Ancient Egypt as far back as the 5th Century. They come from the date palm and most people know dates in their dried version, but fresh dates are becoming more popular in Australia.

They are highly nutritious but are also one of the sweetest of the fruits with a high carbohydrate level.

Dates are high in vitamins B3 and B5, potassium, calcium and magnesium. They also contain a really high level of iron. They also contain high levels of fibre making them a good option for constipation and for bowel health. Great levels of antioxidants including lutein and zeaxanthin which help in anti-ageing. Dates can also help with blood pressure, macular degeneration, iron deficiency and healthy bone growth.

If you can’t get fresh dates, then soak dried dates to get as similar product. Dates are extremely versatile and can be used in savoury dishes as many Middle Eastern dishes contain dates, in sweet dishes and eaten on their own.

If you are having a sugar craving then have 1-2 dates and the natural sweetness satisfies that craving without having to reach for sugar!