10 Reasons to Make a Snack Date with a Date

Dates are also known as "nature's candy," as they are the sweetest among all fruits.  They are grown on date palms (pictured above), which produce up to 200 fruits in a cluster.  Date palms are one of the oldest cultivated trees, having been grown in North Africa for at least 8,000 years.    There are many varieties of dates- all with a pleasant and slightly unique taste.  The most popular variety most stores carry is the Medjool date.  The Medjool date is twice as big as other dates. 

10 Reasons to Make a Snack Date with a Date:

Dates are...
1.  An excellent source of the minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and sulfur.
2.  Satisfy sweet cravings without promoting weight gain.
3.  High in fiber.
4.  Benefit the nervous system.
5. Help to reduce mental fatigue.
6. Are cancer-preventive.
7. Help to relieve constipation.
8. Assist with muscle development.
9. Promote heart health.
10.  Are delicious on eaten their own or, as an addition to dessert recipes, they add a new depth of flavor far above & beyond conventional sugar!

Strawberry Date Shake
with Kefir:

1 c. Kefir
3 Medjool dates, pitted
1 c. strawberries, fresh or frozen
optional:  1 tsp. Synergy whole food Vitamin C berry powder

Step 1- Blend the kefir and dates until smooth. 
Step 2- Add the strawberries and blend until smooth.

* Note:  If you're using fresh strawberries and still desire "shake" consistency, add some additional ice cubes.

Sources:
- The Complete Guide to Nutritional Health by Pierre Jean Cousin and Kirsten Hartvig
- The Encyclopedia of Whole Food Medicine by Don Tolman
- www.organicfacts.net