Boost liver function with this gut-friendly no-bake date bar supporting overall wellness; gastroenterologist shares easy homemade recipe
Recently, gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab shared his recipe for this wholesome dessert on Instagram, highlighting how it can be both gut-friendly and liver-supportive.
By combining dates, almonds, pistachios, and dark chocolate, this recipe delivers a satisfying treat that's high in fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants, without the need for refined sugar or baking.
Why no-bake date bars are a healthier dessert choice; gastroenterologists explains
Most store-bought sweets are loaded with processed sugar, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Date-based bars, on the other hand, offer a more natural alternative.
Dates provide prebiotic fibre, which feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping maintain digestive health.
Nuts such as almonds and pistachios supply healthy fats, protein, and essential micronutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.
Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that may improve heart and
liver function
.
Dr Salhab points out that this combination not only satisfies cravings but also supports overall wellness, making these bars suitable as a snack or dessert.
No-bake-date bars: Key ingredients and their nutritional benefits
Medjool dates
Medjool dates are naturally sweet, eliminating the need for added sugar. They are a rich source of fibre, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants that help regulate digestion, support energy production, and protect against oxidative stress.
Nut butter
Nut butters like almond or peanut butter add a creamy texture and are packed with monounsaturated fats that promote heart health. They also provide protein for satiety and muscle repair.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Certificate in Technology
MIT-TLIP
Apply Now
Undo
Almonds and Pistachios
Both almonds and pistachios are excellent sources of healthy fats, plant protein, vitamin E, and minerals. These nutrients support liver detoxification and help keep cholesterol levels balanced.
Dark Chocolate
Choosing 70% cocoa or higher ensures your chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and protect liver cells from damage.
No-bake date bars recipe at home: Step-by-step process
Step 1 – Prepare the base
Remove the pits from approximately 14 Medjool dates.
Line a baking tin with parchment paper and press the dates into an even, flat layer to form the base.
Step 2 – Add the creamy layer
Spread ¼ cup of your favourite nut butter evenly over the date base. This acts as a binding layer while adding a smooth, rich flavour.
Step 3 – Add crunch with nuts
Sprinkle two handfuls of almonds and one handful of pistachios over the nut butter. You can lightly crush them for an even texture or keep them whole for extra crunch.
Step 4 – Melt the chocolate
Melt 250g of vegan dark chocolate (preferably 70%+ cocoa) over low heat or using a double boiler.
Pour the melted chocolate over the nut layer and smooth it out.
Step 5 – Chill until set
Place the tin in the fridge for about 40 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully hardened.
Step 6 – Slice and enjoy
Cut into bars of your preferred size. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy whenever you need a healthy snack.
Storage tips for no-bake date bars freshness
For maximum freshness and texture, keep your no-bake date bars in the refrigerator. The cold setting ensures the chocolate remains firm, and the nuts stay crisp. They can last up to 10–14 days when stored properly.
Health benefits of eating date bars
Supports digestive health – High fibre content aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Boosts liver function – Healthy fats and antioxidants assist in liver detoxification.
Provides sustained energy – Balanced combination of carbs, fats, and protein keeps you fuller for longer.
Reduces sugar cravings – Naturally sweetened with dates, reducing dependency on refined sugar.
Also Read |
She lost 140 kg without surgery or supplements—now a rare disease has turned her scars into a symbol of strength
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
IIT Delhi gets centre of excellence in precision and personalised healthcare
New Delhi: At IIT Delhi 's research and innovation park, a new centre of excellence in precision and personalised healthcare was inaugurated, marking a significant boost to India's medical innovation ecosystem. Experts say the centre will accelerate AI-driven health tech and biotechnology breakthroughs, fast-tracking research from IIT Delhi labs to real-world patient impact. It has already begun work on advancing healthcare innovations and is dedicated to accelerating the translation of high-impact research into market-ready solutions, addressing India's urgent and evolving medical needs. The inauguration event brought together leading voices from India's innovation and healthcare ecosystem. IIT Delhi has collaborated with Wadhwani Foundation under its Wadhwani innovation network partnership for the centre. You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi | Gold Rates Today in Delhi | Silver Rates Today in Delhi Phase 1 of the project will focus on five domains: personalised medicine, bio-imaging and AI diagnostics, assistive tech for the elderly and differently-abled, affordable and personalised implants and wearables, and new diagnostic solutions. By addressing these priority areas, the centre aims to accelerate the development of technologies that are not only cutting-edge but also affordable and accessible, thereby bridging the gap between advanced research and real-world applications. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo A key mission is to establish a collaborative ecosystem where academia, industry, and govt agencies join forces to take innovations from the lab to the marketplace more efficiently. "Ultimately, the initiative aims to improve patient outcomes, reduce the burden of disease, and position India as a global leader in healthcare innovation, while setting new benchmarks for quality, affordability, and accessibility in medical technology," said an official. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Gastroenterologist warns of alarming rise of liver failure in young adults: Why people aged 25 to 35 are at risk
Have you ever felt unusually tired or bloated or noticed yellowing of your skin or eyes? According to a video shared on Instagram by gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab, these could be warning signs of a growing problem: Liver failure and cirrhosis are increasingly being diagnosed in young adults aged 25 to 35. Once considered a condition of middle age, serious liver disease is now affecting people in their mid-twenties and early thirties. This rise is linked to alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lifestyle-related metabolic issues. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies is vital to protect your liver before it's too late. What is liver cirrhosis and why it matter According to a study published in NHI, Liver cirrhosis is the advanced scarring of liver tissue caused by repeated injury over time. The liver plays a key role in detoxifying the body, metabolising nutrients, and supporting immune function. When scar tissue replaces healthy liver cells, the organ cannot perform its essential functions effectively. Cirrhosis can be irreversible, and in severe cases, a liver transplant may be the only option. Early detection is critical, as the liver does not have pain nerves, meaning damage can progress silently for years until severe symptoms appear. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Learn More - How Watching Videos Can Boost Your Income TheDaddest Undo Alcohol abuse as a major driver of liver failure According to Dr Salhab, alcohol consumption is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis in young adults. Heavy drinking and binge drinking introduce toxic byproducts like acetaldehyde, which directly damage liver cells and trigger chronic inflammation. The liver attempts to repair itself after each injury, but repeated exposure results in permanent scarring. In some cases, serious liver damage can develop within 8–10 years of sustained alcohol abuse, and even faster when combined with poor nutrition or other health issues. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in younger adults Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as another significant cause of cirrhosis in young people. Diets high in ultra-processed foods, refined sugar, and unhealthy fats, combined with low dietary fiber intake, promote fat accumulation in the liver. When paired with sedentary lifestyles, obesity, high cholesterol, and increasing rates of type 2 diabetes, these factors create an environment for chronic liver injury. NAFLD progresses silently over years, often without noticeable symptoms, until irreversible damage occurs. One of the most dangerous aspects of liver disease is its lack of early warning signs. The liver can sustain extensive damage without causing pain. By the time symptoms like jaundice, swelling, confusion, or severe fatigue appear, cirrhosis is often advanced and irreversible. Young adults may be especially unaware of the risks because liver disease has historically been associated with older age. Awareness and routine screening are therefore essential to prevent serious outcomes. Symptoms indicating possible liver disease According to the Liver Foundation , early identification of liver problems can save lives. Key warning signs include: Persistent fatigue or weakness Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) Abdominal swelling or discomfort Nausea or loss of appetite Easy bruising or bleeding Mental confusion or memory problems How to protect your liver and prevent cirrhosis Proactive liver health strategies can dramatically reduce the risk of cirrhosis. Key steps include: Limit alcohol intake: Reducing or eliminating alcohol is the most effective way to prevent alcohol-related liver damage. Follow a liver-friendly diet: Emphasise whole foods, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and fiber-rich grains. Avoid ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves metabolism, helps maintain a healthy weight, and reduces liver fat accumulation. Schedule routine check-ups: Liver function tests at least once or twice a year can help detect early damage before symptoms appear. Support liver health with nutrients: Vitamins C and D, zinc, and herbs like echinacea may enhance immune function and support overall liver health. The rising prevalence of liver cirrhosis in adults aged 25 to 35 is alarming. Heavy alcohol use, poor diet, and metabolic disorders are pushing liver disease into younger age groups, often silently. By understanding the risks, recognising symptoms early, and adopting proactive health measures, including diet, exercise, and regular screening, young adults can significantly lower their chances of developing liver failure. Preventing liver damage before it becomes irreversible is not only possible but essential for long-term health and quality of life. Also Read: Avoid these 6 exercises if you have arthritis or joint instability: Protect your knees and hips "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Nehru Zoological Park prioritises animal mental health, focuses on moot enrichment
1 2 Hyderabad: At the Nehru Zoological Park (NZP), animal care goes beyond physical health. Besides providing healthcare treatment at the veterinary hospital for the physical upkeep of animals, officials are now focusing on their mental well-being too, through a moot enrichment programme, which consists of placing structures inside animal enclosures to provide recreational activities for the animals. "For an animal to be truly healthy, it's very important for its mental health to be taken care of. People often think that mental health is only associated with human beings, but it equally matters when it comes to animals too," said Sunil S Hiremath, the director of NZP. Mental health key factor You Can Also Check: Hyderabad AQI | Weather in Hyderabad | Bank Holidays in Hyderabad | Public Holidays in Hyderabad | Gold Rates Today in Hyderabad | Silver Rates Today in Hyderabad Various studies in the past few years have validated the importance of mental health in animals and have identified various mental health conditions that animals face. According to a study done by nine recognised veterinary scientists from different prestigious universities across the world called the '2020 Five Domains Model', findings revealed that the physical and mental state of animals are inherently linked. The study recognised that the mental health of animals is central to their welfare, which gets compromised if the other four domains—nutrition, health, environment, and behaviour—are negatively affected. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Diversify your portfolio with Edelweiss NFO Edelweiss Mutual Fund AMC Undo Other studies have reported depression-like conditions in animals when they were exposed to solitary confinement, loss of a loved one, and chronic stress. Animals also experience a condition called zoochosis, which is a state of mental anguish exhibited by captive animals as a result of stress, frustration, or deprivation of natural needs. "It becomes extremely difficult for an animal when it gets taken away from its natural habitat and put in a zoo. At the zoo, they are suddenly exposed to conditions they are not used to, like restrictions and relatively small spaces, which can make them feel claustrophobic. If necessary steps are not taken to deal with this, there's a high chance that an animal can become dull and very sick," said Deepak Tarun, an educator working with the zoo. What is Moot Enrichment? The moot enrichment programme, which the zoo has been implementing since 2018, involves structures put up in the enclosures with the goal of creating an environment where the animal can be engaged, active, and happy. The kind of structures that are put up varies from animal to animal. "Just like how different methods work for different people, the same is the case with animals. For example, monkeys get immense happiness from swinging, so we have put up rope ladders for them to do just that. Leopards and jaguars love to perch on top of tall trees, so we have set up elevated corridors in their enclosures to provide an experience very similar to that. With tigers and lions, we make them work to get their food by placing it at a certain height, giving them a form of physical exercise and also enabling critical thinking in the process," Deepak explained. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
