3. Significant Disease Prevention
Dates are high in several types of antioxidant, which are compounds capable of binding with and neutralizing free radicals in the body. Free radicals tend to cause cellular damage until they are neutralized, which increases the risk of many common diseases. Dates have been found to have the highest level of antioxidants of all related fruits, including figs and plums. The three most potent antioxidants in dates are as follows:
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids are antioxidants known reduce inflammation in the body. They have been extensively studied and found to reduce the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and some kinds of cancer.
- Carotenoids: Carotenoids are antioxidants that do a lot to support the health of your heart; they may also work to keep your eyes healthy by lowering the risk macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Phenolic acid: Another strong anti-inflammatory, phenolic acid is thought to reduce your risk of developing heart disease or cancer.
Chronic inflammation is a factor in pretty much every disease known to man, so a diet high in antioxidant foods goes a long way toward maintaining your overall health. Dates are one such food.