Amber dates are a type of Al Madina dates. As the name suggests, they are amber-colored. Like other dates, they are packed with essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Keep reading to learn about amber dates benefits and their nutrition profile.
Amber Dates Nutrition Facts
Here is Amber’s nutrition profile per 100g serving.
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 361 |
Carbohydrates | 75 g |
– Sugar | 63 g |
– Fiber | 8 g |
Fat | 0.4 g |
Protein | 2.3 g |
Vitamins | |
– Vitamin A (RAE) | 173 mcg |
– Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.1 mg |
– Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.2 mg |
– Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.6 mg |
– Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
– Folate | 7 mcg |
– Vitamin K | 2 mcg |
Minerals | |
– Sodium | 2 mg |
– Potassium | 696 mg |
– Magnesium | 57 mg |
– Calcium | 36 mg |
– Phosphorus | 57 mg |
– Iron | 2.1 mg |
– Zinc | 0.6 mg |
Amber Dates Appearance
Amber dates get their name from their beautiful amber color, which ranges from a light golden yellow to a deeper amber shade. They may also have some reddish-brown tones, especially when fully ripe.
They are typically medium-sized and slightly smaller than some other popular date varieties like Medjool dates.
Amber dates have a round to oblong shape with a slight wrinkle along their side.
They are soft and fleshy, with a slightly chewy texture. They are not as dry as some other date varieties, like ajwa dates, making them very pleasant to eat.
Health Benefits of Amber Dates
Amber dates offer a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the key ones:
Good for Your Gut Health
Amber dates have around 8 grams fiber per 100g serving. This insoluble fiber sweeps away waste in your digestive system and prevents constipation. Additionally, prebiotic fibers nourish your gut microbiome, promoting friendly bacteria and overall digestive health.
Regulate Your Blood Sugar
Fiber slows down the release of sugar into your bloodstream. It stabilizes sugar levels in your blood and prevents energy crashes. Therefore, if you are trying to manage diabetes or maintain steady energy throughout the day, amber dates can be your go-to choice.
Help You Manage Weight
Fiber helps in managing your weight. It keeps you feeling fuller for longer which reduces cravings helping you with your weight management efforts. Amber dates offer fiber along with other nutrients, so you can maintain a healthy weight by consuming quality snacks.
Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure
Amber dates contain potassium which helps in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Potassium also helps counteract sodium-induced blood pressure elevation. So, consuming these dates is beneficial, especially for individuals with hypertension.
The combination of potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants in amber dates contributes to lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Source of Plant Based Iron
Iron is a vital part of red blood cells. Its deficiency leads to fatigue and anemia. Amber dates offer a plant-based source of iron, help in its absorption, and boost energy levels.
Source of Vitamins
These dates are a good source of vitamins, such as vitamins A, B6, and K. Vitamin A supports vision and immunity, while B6 aids in energy production and nervous system function.
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health.
A Good Source of Magnesium
Amber dates contain 57 mg of magnesium per 100g. Magnesium is a muscle-relaxing mineral and contributes to improved nerve and muscle function, easing muscle tension and cramps.
Good For Your Heart Health
These dates are heart-friendly due to the following factors:
- They are rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals. Free radicals damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases like heart illness. So, they must be neutralized to prevent heart disease.
- Studies show that regular consumption of dates may help lower LDL (or bad) cholesterol levels and raise HDL (or good) cholesterol, contributing to a healthier heart.
Improve Your Brain Function
Amber dates contain nutrients that are good for your brain function in the following ways:
- Improve Memory: Amber dates contain B vitamins and antioxidants that may improve cognitive function and memory. These nutrients support healthy brain cell function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.
- Energy Booster: The natural sugars in amber dates provide easily accessible energy for the brain, helping in improving focus and mental performance. However, consume any type of date in moderation to avoid sugar crashes
Improve Your Bone Health
The presence of calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin K in amber dates contributes to stronger bones and lowers the risk of osteoporosis.
Conclusion
Amber dates are not just a treat for your sweet tooth but they are packed with nutrients. These nutrients include essential vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, supporting your health, from improving your digestion to boosting the immune system. This is why they’ve been cherished for centuries as a source of good taste and nutritional value.
So, enjoy these dates in desserts, and smoothies, or just consume them as a snack.
FAQs
Amber Al Madina dates are grown in the holy city of Madinah. They are amber-colored dates known for their mild sweetness, soft texture, and rich nutrient content.
Some popular types of Madina dates include ajwa, safawi, barni, sukkari, and mabroom.