Medjool Dates: Our Sweet Secret Ingredient
Our founder, Rip Esselstyn, has a serious sweet tooth. So you can imagine his excitement when he discovered he could create whole fruit sweetened, dessert-inspired, whole grain granola without using refined sugar!
The secret is...using Medjool dates instead of traditional sweeteners.
Here are five reasons why the PLANTSTRONG Team bends over backwards to include dates in our whole food, plant-based granola and cereals.
1. Good source of fiber: Medjool dates are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. Just one Medjool date contains about 1.6 grams of fiber, which is around 6% of the recommended daily intake for adults.
2. Rich in potassium: Medjool dates are also a good source of potassium, which is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, support muscle and nerve function, and maintain proper fluid balance in the body. In fact, one Medjool date contains around 167 mg of potassium, which is about 5% of the recommended daily intake for adults.
3. High in antioxidants: Medjool dates are loaded with antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies suggest that eating foods rich in antioxidants may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's.
4. Low glycemic index: Despite their sweetness, Medjool dates have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they won't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels like other sugary foods. This makes them a great snack option for people with diabetes or anyone looking to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
5. Source of essential minerals: Medjool dates are a rich source of essential minerals like magnesium, copper, and manganese, which are important for bone health, immune function, and energy metabolism. One Medjool date contains about 5% of the recommended daily intake for magnesium and copper, and 7% for manganese.
So next time you are craving something sweet, consider having a few Medjool dates instead of cookies or candy. Your sweet tooth, and the rest of your body, will thank you!
