The Health Benefits of Dates and How to Enjoy Them, According to Dietitians

Sweet, chewy, and surprisingly nutritious—dates are much more than a natural candy. These little dried fruits are quickly becoming popular as both a snack and an ingredient. They’re packed with fiber, essential minerals, and antioxidants (1, 2). Plus, they make a great natural sweetener.  Are all the benefits of dates too good to be true? Let’s take a look at what makes dates special, what to keep in mind when eating them, and how you can incorporate them into your diet. Health Benefits of Dates Although they’re small, dates are full of helpful nutrients—providing fiber, essential mi