Dates are a sweet little nutrient packed superfood. They are a rich source of energy, fiber, essential vitamins and minerals, and antioxidents. Good nutrition is important during pregnancy and dates are a great healthy snack option!
Did you know that eating dates is beneficial for labor preparation?
Consuming 6 dates daily beginning the 36th week of pregnancy can lead to a shorter, easier birth. One study found that mothers who eat dates have:
- a higher incidence of labor beginning on its own
- a lower incidence of premature rupture of membranes
- greater cervical dilation upon hospital admission
- less need for Pitocin
- shorter overall labor
- lower rates of cesarean birth
Pretty good when all you have to do is eat some tasty fruit on the regular!
Eating dates plain is a great option, but if you want to switch things up here are some ideas for how to enjoy your dates:
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| Quick, easy, and with added protein and healthy fat from the nut butter! |
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| Sweet and savory - yum! You can use nitrate-free bacon and blue cheese made with pasteurized milk. You can also substitute cream cheese or omit the cheese completely depending on your preference. |
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| 2 ingredients, 5 minutes to prepare - sounds like a great postpartum snack as well! |
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| Endless variations, but they all begin with a date base! |
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| I know people love their green smoothies! Spoiler alert: one of the 4 ingredients is dates! |
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| A little more indulgent and dessert-like, but they look so tasty! Healthy, 3 Ingredient Date Shake |
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| Similar to the smoothie, but a little less green :) |
