Latest news with #Medjool
Telegraph
26-05-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
The £2.50 dried fruit that lowers your blood pressure and boosts gut health
Caramelly and chewy, dates are nature's candy – a toffee-sized fruit to satisfy sweet cravings in place of something that comes out of a wrapper. As a nutritionist, I'm a fan. Most in this country are sold dried, not fresh. Popular Medjool dates are larger, richer, softer and therefore pricier than Deglet Noor which have a lighter honey flavour. Either can be enjoyed just as they are, or else added to all manner of both sweet and savoury dishes. Culinary versatility is one of the beauties of dates. Think past date loaf and experiment with adding sweet notes to savoury salads, throwing a handful chopped into a bowl to balance out peppery rocket or sharp cheese. Or try soaking dates in a little hot water for a few minutes then blending into anything from a sweet-and-sour marinade to a sweet-and-acidic vinaigrette. Whizzed to a sticky paste in a food processor, dates also help bind reduced-sugar bakes such as brownies. At their simplest, though, dates can be slit open, pitted and spread with anything from melted chocolate to nut butter to soft cheese. Although more costly than dried fruit such as raisins, dates are so intensely sweet that a little goes a long way. They have a long shelf life, too, so you can enjoy one or two then store the rest in a jar ready to call on as an immediate, hassle-free and nutrient-dense snack. Why are dates nutritious? A small handful of dates (about 34g) counts as one of your five-a-day or 30 plant varieties a week and provides a range of nutrients: 90kcal 20g carbohydrate (naturally occurring sugars) High in fibre (2.6g) High in potassium (247mg) Source of iron (0.75mg) Source of copper (0.01mg) High in chloride (6.1mg) High in manganese (0.23mg) Source of vitamin B3 (niacin, 1.1mg) Dates also provide some magnesium and calcium. Many dried dates contain the allergen sulphur dioxide so check labels if necessary. The health benefits of dates 1. Dates support heart health As fibre-rich carbohydrates, dates help protect the heart: eating more fibre has been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and obesity, as well as lower cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Fibre does all this in three ways: It keeps us feeling fuller for longer which can help maintain a healthy body weight, in turn benefitting blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol management It takes longer to digest, delaying the rate at which glucose and fats in our meals are absorbed into the bloodstream It provides food for the friendly bacteria in our guts, encouraging the production of short-chain fatty acids, or SCFAs. These SCFAs are thought to have cardio-protective characteristics. 2. Dates are good for the gut As well as being beneficial to heart health, fibre and SCFAs are central to a happy gut, both nourishing the friendly bacteria in our gut microbiome and protecting the gut lining itself. Together these promote a flourishing, healthy gut which has been linked to improved immunity and overall well-being. Polyphenols – powerful compounds contained in all plants, including dates – also nourish our gut microbiome. To reap all these benefits, including keeping our digestive system regular, we should aim to eat 30g of fibre daily but the average UK intake is closer to 18g. Hitting 30g in a day's eating might look like: A handful of dates (2.6g fibre) A bowl of porridge topped with sliced banana and chopped nuts (8.5g) Hummus, granary bread and veggie sticks (12.5g) Vegetable and lentil ragù with wholewheat spaghetti (6.5.g) 3. Dates are micronutrient-rich A handful of dates provides a range of vitamins and minerals which count towards our daily micronutrient targets and help us feel at our best. They're high in potassium and chloride, which control fluid balance, and iron, which helps make the red blood cells that carry oxygen around our bodies. We also need the copper in dates to produce red and white blood cells. They're equally high in manganese, needed to activate enzymes in our body, including those required for digestion. Finally, they provide vitamin B3 (or niacin) which also promotes digestion by helping us release energy from food, as well as supporting the nervous system. 4. Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties As noted above, dates are rich in many polyphenols. These include beta-carotene, lycopene, flavonoids and anthocyanins. All have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, meaning they help protect the cells in our bodies from damage, illness or toxins. Scientific interest in polyphenols is high and a growing number of studies indicate these polyphenols may have a role to play in either preventing or treating cardiovascular disease, cancer and obesity. 5. They slow glucose absorption Sweetened only with fructose (natural fruit sugar), dates make a nutrient-dense, wholefood swap for a processed biscuit when we're craving something sweet. Their GI index – that is the measure of how quickly foods raise blood glucose – is low to medium because their high-fibre content slows digestion, preventing sugars from spiking. 'Dressing them up' by eating them alongside some protein and healthy fat (for example by mixing them with nuts or nut butter) will also blunt glucose absorption. Put together, these factors help you avoid the energy-and-mood roller-coaster of sugar spikes followed by slumps that you'd instead get from eating a sweet biscuit. All the same, it's important to remember that dates are still high in sugar, fruit sugar or not – so they're not to be eaten without any moderation. If consumed regularly in excess, dried fruits, like dates or apricots, can damage teeth, both because they're sugary and because they're sticky and tend to coat tooth enamel. Offset this by eating them either as part of a meal or, if snacking, pairing with another food (like that nut butter again). What does a portion of dates look like? Limit portions to a small handful. It's easy to over-consume dried fruit because it's small and snackable: you'd likely never eat more than one or two whole fresh apricots at once, for example, but you might get through a great many more dried ones without really considering it. And although we tend to normally only eat dates dried, not fresh, the same principle applies and can be useful to help us visualise appropriate portions. In doing so, we can keep sugar and energy intake in check. Using dates in baking Whilst we talk sugar, a final footnote on baking. There's a myth that baking with syrups such as date, maple or honey is more nutritious than baking with caster sugar. It's true that these liquid sweeteners contain less sugar (versus 100g caster sugar, honey contains 80g, date syrup 66g and maple syrup 65g) but do be aware that they're all still considered free sugars and your body will treat them all equally. Free sugars are any that are added to food and drink, plus the sugar in fruit juice, honey and syrups – and we should aim to limit them to prevent tooth decay and weight gain. In any case, blending dates whole at home retains the fibre and other nutrients whilst a shop-bought bottle of date syrup has had all these valuable nutrients stripped out during processing. So, if you want to try baking with date syrup, don't buy it, make your own easy version at home (see Tip 1 below). FAQs Are dates high in iron? Yes, they're a good plant-based source making them particularly useful for vegetarians and vegans who must ensure they get enough. Dried apricots are high in iron, too, so mixing the two fruits together in the muesli and salad below is a simple way to boost intake. Are dates good for arthritis? The polyphenols in dates may help manage arthritis but current scientific evidence isn't conclusive. The NHS recommends a healthy balanced diet to those suffering with arthritis, centred on a variety of fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, healthy fats plus meat, fish, eggs or plant-based protein, such as beans and legumes. Three recipe ideas
Time Out
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Local serves summer at the table
If there's one thing Local has got us used to, it's colourful, well-balanced dishes, a menu packed with brunch, lunch and dinner options, and a delicious twist on healthy eating. Another staple? The seasonal menu change – a ritual that ensures quality, freshness, and ingredients at their seasonal best. The new Summer menu has arrived – and it doesn't disappoint. Start with the salmon and turbot ceviche, served with Odemira sweet potato purée and macadamia nuts (€13.10). For a vegetarian option that's just as refreshing, the gazpacho (€5.90) is the perfect pick. Moving on to mains, there are new highlights like the octopus with avocado 'mayonnaise' (€22.80), now paired with a new sweet potato recipe, fennel, and delicious kale. Alternatively, try the oven-baked turbot, a new addition, served with white bean purée and Mediterranean vegetables (€23.50). Vegetarians and plant-based food lovers haven't been forgotten: the pad thai (€13.90) brings together rice noodles, Asian vegetables, edamame, bean sprouts and crunchy peanuts for extra texture. As for the house classics, like the quinoa with hummus or feta (€12.60), and the hot honey halloumi salad (€14.50), they're still on the menu – now with a few seasonal twists to match the warmer days. An honourable mention on the summer menu goes to the balsamic duck, served with burrata, nectarine, pistachios and homemade pesto over a bed of mixed greens (€22.20) – a fresh combination that's sure to surprise. As the end of the meal approaches, it's time for the part there's always room for: dessert. New arrivals include the tiramisu (€12.30) and stuffed Medjool dates (€2.70), as well as a brand-new coffee blend, specially developed by Delta Cafés' Coffee House. Making a return are the passion fruit cheesecake (€4.80) and the berries with cashew cream (€6.70). Group menus are still available, priced between €37 and €49 per person. You can choose from three options, all of which include a variety of starters, a main course, dessert and a drink. The ever-popular poké bowls are still going strong on the menu, alongside the ultra-fresh juices. And since great service goes beyond just the food, there's now a new way to order via biip: simply scan the QR code on your table to access the digital menu, place your order quickly, and even add extra items.
NDTV
02-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Are You Eating Right Type Of Dates? Know Which Ones Are For Weight Loss And Weight Gain
Dates, the sweet fruit of the date palm tree, have been a staple in Middle Eastern and North African diets for centuries. Packed with natural sugars, fibre, and essential nutrients, dates offer a range of health benefits. But did you know that certain types of dates can support weight loss while others are ideal for healthy weight gain? Let's explore the delicious world of dates and how to choose the right variety for your wellness goals. Also Read: Is Date (Khajoor) Sugar Better Than White Sugar? Here's What You Need To Know Here Are 5 Most Popular Types of Dates There are over 200 varieties of dates grown around the world, but a few stand out for their flavour, texture, and nutritional content. 1. Medjool Dates - Often called the "king of dates", Medjools are large, soft, and luxuriously sweet. They are rich in calories and natural sugars like fructose and glucose, making them ideal for energy boosts and weight gain diets. 2. Deglet Noor Dates - Slightly drier and less sweet than Medjools, Deglet Noor dates are firmer and have a more subtle, nutty flavour. These are often used in cooking and baking. 3. Ajwa Dates - A prized variety from Saudi Arabia, Ajwa dates are smaller, darker, and have a mild sweetness with hints of cinnamon. Revered for their medicinal qualities, they are nutrient-dense and loaded with antioxidants. 4. Barhi Dates - These dates are soft, caramel-like, and extremely sweet when fully ripe. In their yellow, crunchy stage (khalal), they're less sweet and contain more resistant starch. 5. Zahidi Dates - Firm, golden-brown, and slightly less sweet, Zahidi dates have a nutty taste and are high in fibre, making them a favourite for digestive health and weight management. Also Read: Can You Eat Dates (Khajur) In Summer? We Find Out! Dates come in different varieties. Image Credit: iStock Dates for Weight Loss When trying to shed pounds, fibre and low glycaemic impact are key. Zahidi and Deglet Noor dates are particularly good choices for weight loss. Zahidi Dates: With their high insoluble fibre content, Zahidi dates help improve satiety and regulate digestion, making you feel full longer. Deglet Noor Dates: These are moderate in sweetness and calories, making them suitable for adding natural sweetness to smoothies or snacks without excessive sugar spikes. Additionally, consuming 2-3 small dates per day can help curb sweet cravings while offering a nutritional boost. They are best eaten in the morning or pre-workout to support energy levels without storing excess sugar as fat. Also Read: How To Make Dates Cake: The Eggless Treat You Can Binge On, Guilt-Free Dates for Weight Gain If you're looking to gain weight in a healthy way, opt for Medjool, Ajwa, or Barhi dates. Medjool Dates: High in natural sugars and calories (around 66 kcal per date), Medjools are excellent as part of protein-rich snacks or post-workout shakes. Ajwa Dates: Though smaller, they're dense in nutrients and perfect for those needing to increase their caloric intake while maintaining nutritional balance. Barhi Dates: Especially in their ripe stage, Barhis are syrupy-sweet and energy-dense, ideal for those with high energy requirements. Pairing dates with nuts, nut butter, or yoghurt enhances their caloric content and adds healthy fats and protein, supporting muscle growth and healthy weight gain. Whether you're aiming to lose or gain weight, dates can be a valuable part of your diet. Choosing the right type and quantity, and pairing them wisely, can help you reach your health goals with flavour and satisfaction. Advertisement Comments About Neha Grover Love for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Dates Weight Loss Weight Gain Show full article Comments
Yahoo
23-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
This Viral Snack Is Supposed to Taste Like Cookie Dough — and We Tested It
Every time my mom baked cookies while I was growing up, I would, without fail, sneak a bite or two of the cookie dough. In fact, if I still lived at home, I'd definitely still be grabbing chunks of cookie dough whenever she was whipping up a batch of baked goods. But unfortunately, now that I'm an adult living in my own apartment, the justified health warnings about the dangers of eating raw flour and raw eggs — not to mention the cost of the latter — keep me from making a big batch of cookie dough and just digging in with a spoon. To fill the cookie dough-sized void in my heart and diet, I decided to try a simple snack that's been making the rounds on TikTok and Instagram for several months: dates stuffed with butter and topped with salt. If you've scrolled through food videos for more than a few hours in the past year, then it's likely you've noticed a common trend, and it's easy to understand the appeal. In addition to requiring just three ingredients, creators are enticing audiences with the bold claim that this treat tastes like cookie dough. This snack is particularly appealing if you're trying to cut down on refined sugar or can't eat gluten, and it's convenient for anyone who is short on time. But does it actually taste like the pure, decadent joy of raw cookie dough? I endeavored to find out. The short answer is 'kind of.' Unsurprisingly, a date filled with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt doesn't taste exactly like cookie dough — you'll definitely notice the difference — but it comes much closer than I expected. First, a soft, plump date has a similar thickness, bite, and texture to a chunk of cookie dough. While the date is slightly more fibrous, making them not texturally identical, it feels a lot like you're biting into sticky, dense dough. As you chew, a date has a slightly grainy texture, and when combined with its caramelized sweetness, it almost gives the impression that you're eating brown sugar — a sensation and flavor that strongly reminds me of cookie dough. Related: We Asked Professional Bakers for Their Favorite Butter — All Their Picks Have One Thing in Common The richness of the butter is essential, as it balances the extreme sweetness of the date itself, and makes the treat taste exceptionally decadent — it has strong notes of brown butter, reminiscent of the best chocolate chip cookies. To truly satisfy your cookie dough craving, don't skip the salt, which adds complexity and balance. Together, these three components provide much of what you seek in cookie dough: rich, soft, sticky, sweet, and with a touch of salt in every bite. While this won't completely satisfy your craving for cookie dough, if you're in search of something that fulfills that desire and is much more weeknight-friendly, this will do the trick. For this sweet treat, you'll want to start with Medjool dates. This variety of date is known for its large size, soft texture, and caramel-like brown sugar taste. All three of these qualities are essential for both mimicking the flavor of cookie dough and allowing the date to easily hold butter. Other date varieties, like the Deglet Noor, are smaller and firmer, making them logistically more difficult to transform into what is essentially a small sandwich inside a date. You can either purchase pitted dates or pit them yourself. Once the pit is removed, open it up lengthwise (a pitted date will already be cut on one side and should be easy to simply open), but do not tear it completely into two halves. You want the skin on one side of the date to remain intact, like a hinge holding the two halves together. Related: 5 Unexpected Ways to Use a Milk Frother — From Salad Dressings to Shots Cut a small dab of cold, unsalted butter — around ⅛ to ¼ of an inch thick — and place it inside the opening you've made in the date. Finally, top it off with a sprinkle of salt. Many creators online have used flaky sea salt to garnish the snack, but regular kosher salt works just as well. Be generous with the amount of salt you add to balance out the intensely sweet flavor of the dates. (If you only have salted butter available, you can definitely use that, but reduce the amount of salt you sprinkle on top accordingly.) If you can't have dairy, I recommend using a cultured vegan butter to fill your dates. You could also try coconut oil, as long as it's kept cool enough to maintain a solid texture, but it won't have the tanginess that dairy butter or its cultured substitutes impart. While this snack can be kept to just three ingredients, you can also customize it with some easy additions if you'd like. The most popular topping for these butter dates, and the one I enjoyed the most after trying several variations, is chocolate chips. Not only do the chocolate chips give the sweet bites the flavor of chocolate chip cookie dough, but they also provide a pleasant textural contrast to the softness of the other ingredients. Bittersweet chocolate chips work best, because the date is already quite sweet. Related: 7 Easy Cookies You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dates for an oatmeal cookie vibe, or include a small amount of your favorite nut butter if you wish. Just ensure you place the cinnamon inside the date under the butter — you don't want to risk inhaling loose cinnamon — and avoid using too much, as it can be quite potent. If you decide to add nut butter, slightly reduce the amount of dairy butter to prevent an overly rich snack. I've also heard that mixing dates, chocolate, peanut butter, and a pinch of salt creates a sweet treat reminiscent of a Snickers bar, which gives me another idea for what to do with the box of dates in my pantry. Read the original article on Food & Wine
CairoScene
10-03-2025
- Lifestyle
- CairoScene
Premium Egyptian Date Brand Altamra Drops Delicious Ramadan Line-up
From Medjool dates to 'Not-Honey' natural sweeteners, here's why you should restock on your dates from Altamra Mar 10, 2025 Ramadan is a time to embrace tradition, and with that comes a range of the time-honoured treats we all know and love, prime amongst them dates. Altamra, a premium Egyptian date brand, is offering a fresh take on classic dates this Ramadan with its new line-up. At the heart of the new line-up are Medjool dates. With their naturally sweet and rich flavour, are perfect for breaking your fast for that instant burst of energy we find ourselves needing post Maghrib. For those looking to get creative in the kitchen, Altamra also offers a Medjool date paste, 'Ajwa', which is ideal for experimenting with a few in-house 'eftekasat'. If you're watching your sugar intake and don't want to miss out on all the fun, Altamra's line-up also features a healthier alternative. Their 'Not Honey', a natural sweetener, provides the perfect option for adding a touch of sweetness to your Suhoor smoothie, or drizzling over desserts without the added guilt. For those seeking a nutritious - and health-conscious - snack, Altamra has a few date-based 'Delights' up their sleeve; a series of power-packed bites that balance flavour, sweetness and nourishment. Among these delights are date-based chocolate balls sprinkled with nuts, sesame, or pistachio, as well as a unique rosy floral date bite (yes, actual roses). Yet for Altamra, it's not just about the dates; it's how they get them. Using underground water sources and drip irrigation, along with bio-friendly pest control, they ensure their dates are grown with the environment in mind, with a Global GAP certification in their arsenal guaranteeing that the dates meet international standards for food safety and environmental sustainability. Now, up for a date?
