Muscat, March 31
Eating dates in moderate quantities can protect the pancreas from several diseases including cancer, according to a study conducted by SQU research team. For centuries dates have been known to enhance brain health, regulate blood pressure and improve metabolism. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever eats seven Ajwa dates every morning will not be harmed that day by poison or magic.”
The new findings on cancer fighting abilities will spur more research into the dates as a superfood. A research team from Sultan Qaboos University, headed by Dr Yunus Baqi from the College of Sciences of Sultan Qaboos University, found that dates could reduce inflammation and fibrosis of the liver. The benefits of dates are numerous and well-known for centuries. Dr Faten Khorshid, Head of the Cell and Tissue Transplant Unit at King Fahd Center for Medical Research, highlights the role of dates in the treatment of cancer. “Dates are a blessing but do not eat much and eat in odd numbers, not in even numbers so that they do not turn into sugars that feed cancer. The odd number is spent as energy, according to research.”
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and the most difficult to treat. One of the best ways to save from infections is eating dates.
Dates contain a number of powerful antioxidants and a high percentage of polyphenols that help reduce inflammation in the body. Cutting out sugar completely from our diet is not a solution because it leaves healthy cells with low energy. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our cells. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to protect the body from cancer.
Dates are one of the most nutritional foods that contain essential vitamins and minerals for the human body. They are considered light snacks, free of cholesterol, and very low in fat. Research has proven that dates contain 15 minerals that are important to humans, including selenium, an element believed to help prevent cancer; and 23 types of amino acids that boost immunity
Some of them are not found in the most popular fruits such as oranges, apples and bananas, so eating dates is an ideal food for the body. Eating any type of date in any way helps the body to acquire antioxidants that help prevent cancer.
Dates contain natural sugars which are healthy compared to white or processed sugar in fast food, colas, sweets which could increase risk of cancer and diabetes. Natural sugars in dates help to maintain metabolism and body weight. It also fight cancerous cells
Eating dates in a controlled way won’t lead to blood sugar spikes. The fibre in the dates may help the body absorb carbohydrates, which may reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes. Studies recommend pairing dates with a source of protein and fat, such as almonds, may further slow down digestion and help manage blood sugar levels.
Though dates have low glycemic index, diabetics must consult with doctors or dieticians before consuming it.
