Dates are fruits of date Palm trees native to North Africa and the Middle East. They have been cultivated since ancient times from Mesopotamia to prehistoric Egypt, possibly as early as 6000 BC.

Dates

Dates are fat free, cholesterol free, and are a good source of fiber. A single date contains around 23 calories, which makes it a healthy low calorie snack. They contain vitamins A, Vitamin B-complex, C and more than 20 different amino acids, that can help us digest and assimilate carbohydrates and control blood sugar and fatty acids levels. Dates are also good sources of carbohydrate, fiber, and potassium, calcium and iron along with minerals in smaller amounts. Selenium found in dates lowers the risk of cancer and heart diseases and helps us keep our immune systems healthy.

Nuts

Nuts contain healthy unsaturated fat that nutritionists suggest may help lower cholesterol and reduce Type 2 diabetes risk. Nuts and seeds also have high protein and fiber content. Nuts are also recommended as part of some dietary plans to help reduce blood pressure.

As long as the calorie intake is controlled consuming a handful of nuts daily may help prevent weight gain and possibly promote weight loss.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is an excellent source of fiber, nutrients, antioxidants and complex carbohydrates. However, these carbohydrates are easily absorbable fruit sugars; fructose and glucose, which provide a constant source of energy. Although the calorie content in dried fruit is higher than fresh fruit, it is very healthy as a snack. Dried fruit also is low in fat and possesses significant antioxidant value.