Red dates, also known as jujubes, support healthy spleen functioning. As the saying goes: “Three jujubes a day and even a centenarian looks young.” They have been used in many Chinese medicine formulations for centuries. The fruit is sweet to the taste and warm in nature. As well as nourishing the skin and having anti-aging benefits, they also protect the liver, nourish the blood, prevent hair loss, strengthen muscle and bone, and assist with the digestive process.
Red dates are especially suitable to treat people with poor appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, skin problems, anxiety, or restlessness. The highest concentration of Vitamin C is found in red dates. The concentration is 7-10 times higher than that found in citrus fruits. They also contain protein, carbohydrates, organic acids, vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, and iron. These qualities make them an indispensable beauty product for women.
6 health benefits of red dates
1. Protect the liver
The carbohydrates, fats, and proteins contained in jujubes promote liver protein synthesis, increase serum albumin content, and balance the ratio of albumin to globulin. In addition, triterpenoids have anti-fatigue effects. Jujubes can also help inhibit the effects of hepatitis for those who suffer from this disease.
2. Help digestion
Red dates are rich in fiber. Three dates contain one-fifth of the adult daily fiber requirement. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicated that consuming the right amount of red dates daily can improve the peristalsis rate of the intestines, reducing chemical substances that may cause cancer.
3. Natural sweetness
Sun-dried red dates are so naturally sweet that people often think they have added sugar. This is not the case, as the fruit is so sweet it doesn’t require any added sugar. It has a high nutritional value whether it’s consumed as dried fruit, part of a dessert, or as a snack. It has many nutritional benefits when consumed daily, however, diabetics should monitor their intake due to the high natural sugar content.
4. Skincare
Red dates contain Vitamin B, which promotes blood circulation. In addition, their high concentration of Vitamin C effectively reduces the production of melanin and spots, while also making the skin smooth and soft.
5. Prevent hair loss
The fruit supports both spleen and stomach functions. Good spleen function leads to firm skin and shiny, healthy hair, minimizing hair loss.
6. Strengthen the body and nourish the kidney
Red dates are rich in cyclic adenosine monophosphate, which has the effect of dilating blood vessels and improving blood supply to the kidneys. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that red dates are good for men’s health. They not only strengthen muscles and bones, but they also help treat sexual dysfunction.
Red date tea recommendation
Red date green tea
The most common red date tea is red dates with wolfberries or longans. You can buy the tea from Chinese pharmacies, traditional markets, and also supermarkets. Making your own red date tea is easy if you prefer homemade over store-bought. First, you need to wash the red dates and other ingredients. Then simply simmer the ingredients over low heat for 10-20 minutes. Add sugar to taste and you have your homemade tea ready to drink! The tea is not only delicious, it’s also full of health benefits and can help warm you up on a cold winter’s day.
Even though red dates have many health benefits, it’s important not to consume too many. Generally, 3-5 pieces of the fruit a day is enough. If symptoms persist, please consult your preferred health specialist.
Translated by Patty Zhang and edited by Kathy McWilliams
