Health Benefits of Dates During Ramadan: Insights from UNAIR Nutrition Expert

The consumption of dates during Ramadan is a tradition observed by many in Indonesia and Muslim communities worldwide. This practice holds nutritional significance, as dates are known for their dense nutrient profile, offering various health benefits that can support individuals during fasting.

Insights from UNAIR Nutrition Expert

Lailatul Muniroh, a nutrition expert from the Faculty of Public Health at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), noted that dates are a suitable option for breaking the fast due to their rich nutrient content. She pointed out that dates contain natural sugars that provide an immediate energy boost, which can be particularly advantageous following a day of fasting. Furthermore, dates serve as an excellent source of dietary fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals that contribute to digestive health.

Natural Sugars and Energy Release

Muniroh explained that the natural sugars found in dates include glucose, fructose, and sucrose. Glucose offers immediate energy, fructose helps regulate blood sugar levels, and sucrose supports a gradual release of energy, contributing to sustained vitality.

Health Benefits of Dates

The expert outlined a range of health benefits associated with date consumption, especially during Ramadan. Dates are believed to aid in hydration, support digestive and cardiovascular health, help stabilize blood sugar levels, combat oxidative stress from free radicals, enhance the immune system, and improve cognitive function.

Incorporating Dates into Your Diet

While dates are often consumed alone, Muniroh suggested that they can also be added to various dishes or beverages to enhance nutritional consumption. For instance, dates may be blended into smoothies or used to create healthier drinks such as sugar-free date juice or date-infused water. Additionally, incorporating dates with fiber-rich foods during iftar and suhoor is recommended, particularly for individuals managing diabetes, as this can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

In summary, moderation is essential; the consumption of two to three dates during both iftar and the pre-dawn meal is advised for optimal health benefits.

Source: Original article by Mohammad Adif Albarado, edited by Yulia Rohmawati, Universitas Airlangga.