A Date with Dates

This month we are all about our Sticky Date Log, not just because it is so deliciously sticky and datey and got that lovely caramel sauce which melts when heated. We also wanted to remind ourselves of the awesome goodness and healthful benefits of dates.

While the exact origins of the sticky date pudding are about as fiercely disputed as Pavlova, it’s popularity as a dessert staples in pubs throughout England is pretty event since the 1960s.

Essentially made from two components, a moist sponge with finely chopped dates and a caramel sauce, it’s the dates that are especially interesting to us today – adding an awesome range of health benefits to our after dinner treat.

Health Benefits of Dates

There are so many great reasons to include dates in your meal so let’s look at our favourites here:

1. Very Nutritious – Most calories in dates come from carbs plus a small amount of protein.
2. Natural Sweetener – When you soften dates in boiling water and then blend them to make a smooth paste, you have a wonderful sugar or honey substitute!
3. Insoluble Fibre – This is great for healthy digestion and keeping you regular.
4. Antioxidants – May reduce triglycerides which is a fat found in your blood that can lead to heart disease.
5. Lower Inflammatory Markers – This may help improve brain function and reduce neurodegenerative diseases.

Daily Dates

Like any food, dates should be eaten in moderation and as part of a varied diet – eat the rainbow! It is generally recommended that eating 3-6 dates a day should be enough for your body to absorb all the health benefits from dates.

You can eat dates at any time of the day without any digestive issues. They also make for an energy-rich snack that will keep you full and satisfied.