For centuries, people have known that dates are magnificent healing tools. The sweet fruits from palm trees, one of nature’s favorites, seem to be especially interested in the well-being of people who have cancer. Let’s uncover why these natural sweets can be beneficial during the cancer journey.
What makes dates so unique for cancer patients?
Dates are a lot like nature’s candy. They’re packed full of good things your body needs to stay strong during cancer treatment. What’s helpful is that they’re easy to eat, taste so good, and give you quick energy from them. This can be especially helpful when you want to eat less during treatments.
What nutrients do dates contain that help cancer patients?
Dates are rich in powerful nutrients that aid in the time of treatment for cancer. But let’s break it down to what’s in the sweet fruit that is dates:
Nutrients found in Dates per 100g
- Natural sugars (glucose and fructose): 60-65%
- Fiber: 6-7 grams
- Potassium: 696mg
- Magnesium: 54mg
- Iron: 0.9mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.249mg
- Protein: 2.5g
- Calcium: 64mg
Cancer-Fighting Compounds:
- Antioxidants
- Polyphenols
- Beta-carotene
- Flavonoids
- Tannins
- Selenium
All these nutrients come together to help your body fight cancer and deal with the side effects of treatments.
A date can relieve chemotherapy side effects because it is easily digestible when you feel nauseous, provides speedy energy from the natural sugars in your body when you are tired, and its fiber helps with constipation, a common side effect associated with treatment. Many patients find that eating a few dates can settle the stomach before or after treatment.
Thus, how should cancer patients eat dates?
There are many different ways to consume dates. The easiest way, of course, is to just dig in. Some people will take out the pit and fill it with nuts for added nutrition. You can even puree them into a smoothie or soak them in warm water to soften. If you cannot chew them, you may mash them up into a paste and then spread them on toast or mix them into yogurt.
The best time for dates when undergoing the process of cancer treatment is preferably during the oncologist’s planned chemotherapy sessions.
Timing is everything when eating dates during cancer treatment. Patients frequently find it helpful to eat a few dates about 30 minutes before their session. This will give them energy and prevent nausea. Some find it best to have dates available throughout the day as a quick energy pick-up. Eating dates with some protein, like nuts or cheese, would be great to help manage blood sugar levels.
Can dates help with cancer-related fatigue?
Cancer fatigue is far from normal tiredness. It’s an overwhelming feeling of fatigue most patients will report. Dates help, as natural energy lasts much longer than processed sugar. Combining natural sugars with fiber ensures you get quick energy, but the energy wears off just not too fast. Many patients keep dates on hand for when they feel their energy dipping.
How do dates enhance your immunity towards cancer treatments?
Your immunity also requires extra support during your time of cancer treatment.
Dates are rich in antioxidants that stop oxidative damage, contain compounds that may reduce inflammation, and even have vitamins and minerals that keep your immunity functional in the face of the treatment.
What does science say about dates and cancer?
Researchers have examined dates and their effects on the disease. Various studies suggest that dates contain substances that may cancel the activities of cancerous cells. They also help suppress inflammation, which is significant as inflammation can even exacerbate cancer. The bottom line is that while dates cannot cure the disease, science proves that they may as well be a part of your strategy for cancer care.
How many dates should a cancer patient take daily?
Although dates can be considered to be healthy, it is still unhealthy to eat much of it. Most doctors would recommend that 4-6 dates be eaten a day. If you are not used to eating dates, start with one or two per day before increasing because this promotes your digestive system. It is always best to consult your doctor for information on introducing dates into your diet, especially if you have conditions like diabetes.
What can a patient suffering from cancer know before they add dates to the diet?
Dates are intrinsically sweet, and their sugars are contained within the fruit. While they are superior to processed sugars, they do contain a large amount and are terrible if one has diabetes or issues with blood sugar regulation. Some of these dates are preserved with preservatives, so opt for organic ones when available. If you underwent dental work or mouth ulcers due to treatment, it’s ideal to soak them in warm water to soften them before swallowing.
The Takeaway:
Remember, however, that dates are not a substitute for any cancer treatment but could be a helpful adjunct to your care regimen. They are a natural addition to your body during the period you’re undergoing treatment, thus helping reduce some of the harsh side effects associated with treatment.
Always discuss your change in diet with your healthcare professional before trying out anything new while on cancer treatment. They will be able to help you discover the best ways to include dates within your cancer journey.
REFERENCE LINKS:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3992385/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36125704/
https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Health-Benefits-of-Eating-Dates.aspx