With winter, many people feel tired and have less energy because of the cold. At this time there are few better options than natural foods to keep the body warm and energised from within. One such beneficial fruit is the date, which is easily available all year round and is even more useful in winter.

According to nutritionists, eating dates regularly every day in winter gives the body quick energy, keeps digestion good and reduces various cold-related problems. The vitamins, minerals and fibre in dates help boost immunity.

• Keeps the body warm and strong: natural sugars in dates such as glucose, fructose and sucrose give quick energy and help maintain warmth from within in winter.
• Aids digestion and relieves constipation: fibre-rich dates improve bowel function, and eating them regularly greatly reduces digestive problems and constipation.
• Boosts immunity: the vitamins and minerals in dates help the body fight infection and strengthen the immune system.
• Good for the skin: antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin K help the skin retain moisture. Dates help reduce dry skin in winter and prevent premature wrinkles.
• Improves brain function: vitamin B6 and flavonoids in dates help memory and concentration and also help lift mood.
• Strengthens bones: calcium and phosphorus help build strong bones, which is especially important in winter.
• Helps control blood pressure: the fibre in dates helps sugar be absorbed slowly into the blood and may help keep blood pressure normal. However, people with diabetes should eat dates only on a doctor's advice.

Three to five dates a day is enough. Dates are high in calories and natural sugar, so eating too many can raise weight or blood sugar.

Eating dates on an empty stomach on a winter morning, or with milk, gives energy for the whole day. When hungry, dates can also be a good alternative to unhealthy food.

The information draws on Healthline.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.