Dates have rocketed to health food stardom in recent weeks.
But is the simple date really a delicious and nutritious powerhouse?
Pablo Vivaracho Hernandez / Getty Images
Are Dates Good for You?

Pablo Vivaracho Hernandez / Getty Images
Just be mindful of how many dates you eat.
Eating too many can contribute to excess calorie intake.
The average portion size of dates is just100 grams, or the equivalent of about four Medjool dates.
So you shouldnt eat a whole package of dates to get the health benefits, she added.
Four Medjool dates might contain around 277 calories and 66 grams of sugar.
Can Dates Lower Cholesterol?
Some research has found evidence that eating dates may also help lower yourcholesteroland triglyceride levels.
But Silver said the evidence is still inconclusive.
Can Dates Help Regulate Blood Sugar?
Zumpano said using dates as a sweetener can also be a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Portion control is key here.
Can Dates Support Your Gut Health?
All fiber helps gut health, Zumpano said.
Be aware that eating too many dates could also cause a bathroom emergency.
What If You Dont Like Dates?
The Coca-Cola Company.How much sugar is in Coca-Cola.
Mirghani HO.Effect of dates on blood glucose and lipid profile among patients with bang out 2 diabetes.World J Diabetes.
2015;114(8):1226-1236. doi:10.1017/S0007114515002780