Prophet Muhammad’s Timeless Wisdom: Dates as an Essential Dietary Recommendation, Unknown Magnesium and Potassium Benefits Revealed After 1400 Years.
One of the well-known hadiths about dates (khajoor) is narrated by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ :
- “Whoever eats seven dates in the morning before speaking to anyone, no poison will harm him that day.” (Sahih Muslim)
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The ‘ajwah date is from Paradise and it contains the cure for poison.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
- Narrated by Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever takes seven dates from the morning, neither magic nor poison will harm him that day.” (Sahih Bukhari)
Dates are highly regarded in Islamic culture and are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Quran and hadith literature.
Major Components:
Dates, commonly known as khajoor, are nutritious fruit that contains various components beneficial to health. Here are some of the key components found in dates:
- Carbohydrates:
Dates are rich in carbohydrates, particularly simple sugars such as fructose and glucose, which provide energy. They are an excellent source of natural sugars and are commonly consumed as quick energy boosters. The carbohydrate content in dates can range from 60% to 70% of their total weight.
2. Dietary Fiber:
Dates are a good source of dietary fiber, which helps in digestion and promotes bowel regularity. The fiber content in dates varies depending on the variety, but it is generally around 6-8 grams per 100 grams.
3. Vitamins:
Dates contain various vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin K, and a range of B vitamins such as thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and vitamin B6. However, the exact concentrations can vary depending on the specific variety and ripeness of the dates.
4. Minerals:
Potassium, magnesium, and copper are among the minerals abundant in dates.
- Potassium is important for heart health and maintaining proper fluid balance in the body.
- Magnesium plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including nerve function and muscle relaxation.
- Connective tissues and red blood cells are both made with copper.
The concentration of these minerals can vary, but dates are generally considered a good source.
5. Antioxidants:
Dates are packed with antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by harmful free radicals. These antioxidants contribute to the overall health benefits of dates.
It’s worth noting that the concentration of these components can vary based on factors such as date variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
Additionally, the nutritional composition may slightly differ between fresh and dried dates.
