Not only does it taste sweet, but there are also many health benefits of kurma. Thanks to the content of various important nutrients in it, Kurma are good for consumption to maintain a healthy body and prevent various diseases.
Date fruit is one of the oldest fruits in the world that is most widely cultivated in the Middle East, such as Saudi Arabia. Its sweet taste and soft flesh make kurma one of the favorite dessert dishes in various circles.
There are several variations of kurma that you can choose from, such as sukari kurma, ajwa kurma, or medjool kurma. Each date fruit has its own uniqueness with benefits that are not much different. To get the benefits of kurma, you can enjoy them directly or make drinks, such as kurma juice and nabeez water.
Nutritional Content of Date Fruit
In 100 grams of kurma, there are about 280 calories and the following nutrients:
- 2-2.5 grams of protein
- 75 grams of carbohydrates
- 65 grams of sugar
- 7-8 grams of fiber
- 65 milligrams of calcium
- 650 milligrams of potassium
- 1 mg iron
- 0.5 milligrams zinc
- 150 IU vitamin A
In addition to the nutrients above, kurma also contain folate, B vitamins, vitamin K, manganese, and various types of antioxidants, including lutein and flavonoids.
Various Benefits of Kurma
Thanks to its abundant nutritional content, there are many benefits of kurma that are not to be missed, namely:
1. Supports digestive system health
Date fruit is one type of fruit that has a lot of fiber and complex carbohydrates. With a high fiber content, dates are beneficial for digestion and help overcome and prevent constipation.
In addition, some studies have also shown that date fruits and juice are beneficial to help maintain the balance of good bacteria (probiotics) in the intestines, so that gastrointestinal health can be maintained and avoid various diseases.
2. Controls blood sugar levels
Despite its sweet taste and high sugar content, kurma (dates) are safe to consume for people with diabetes. This is because this fruit has a relatively low glycemic index, so it does not make blood sugar levels spike quickly.
In fact, thanks to the antioxidant content and various nutrients in it, dates are said to be good for helping control blood sugar and prevent insulin resistance.
However, to be safer and healthier, it is recommended that you limit your consumption of sugar or sugary foods and drinks when consuming dates. This is so that the amount of sugar intake you consume is not excessive. Also make it a habit to limit the consumption of dates.
3. Controls blood pressure
One of the important benefits of dates is to help control blood pressure. This is because dates contain a lot of potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. In addition, dates are also low in sodium or salt, making them suitable for consumption for people suffering from hypertension.
4. Maintain the health of pregnant women and support fetal growth and development
Kurma are also good for the health of pregnant women and their fetuses. This is because dates contain many nutrients that are important for the health of the pregnant woman’s body and fetal growth and development, such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and antioxidants.
With adequate nutritional intake, the fetus can be prevented from various health problems, such as congenital birth defects, premature birth, or being born with low birth weight. Dates are also good for increasing energy, so pregnant women do not feel tired easily.
Some studies have also proven that regularly consuming dates every day during the last few weeks of pregnancy or before childbirth can help facilitate labor and accelerate the normal delivery process.
5. Supports bone strength and health
The mineral content of kurma, including phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, is beneficial for maintaining bone health and strength. With these nutrients, you can avoid osteoporosis.
6. Prevents the growth of cancer cells
Kurma are known to contain many natural antioxidants, such as phenolics and flavonoids. This content has an important role in preventing the growth of cancer cells.
Animal studies have shown that dates can inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells and improve liver function. However, the benefits of dates still require further research.
To get the maximum benefits of dates, you are advised to consume this fruit in moderation, which is no more than 3-4 fruits per day. If necessary, you can consult a doctor to get the right advice regarding the portion of dates that is suitable for your health condition.