Dates or khajur are popular for their energy-boosting properties. But have you ever thought if its seed — which most of us discard — is as nutritious? Let us tell you — it is, especially when ground to a powder, as it can help regulate blood sugar levels. To comprehend the same better, we reached out to experts.
According to Sushma PS, chief dietitian, Jindal Naturecure Institute, date seeds pack a nutritional punch. “Date palms or khajur have long been celebrated as sweet succulents with wide-ranging health benefits. Their seeds pack a nutritious punch. Date seeds have a positive impact on blood sugar levels. Components within the seeds may help regulate glucose metabolism, making them potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition,” said Sushma.
Date palm seeds also boast an impressive amount of dietary fibre, crucial for gut health, shared Dr Sangeeta Tiwari, clinical nutritionist, Artemis Hospitals. “This fibre promotes regularity, aids digestion, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding weight management,” said Dr Tiwari.
Consumption of date seed powder has the potential to reduce blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic patients and does not change the glycemic index in normal people. This means that dates are beneficial for diabetic patients, shared Sushma.
Dr Tiwari also noted that as date palm seeds are rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals in your body, they help protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Things to note
Always start gently and observe how your body responds, particularly if you are using the powder for its possible ability to regulate blood sugar, Sushma cautioned. “It’s wise to speak with a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are on medication,” urged Sushma.
While date palm seeds offer potential benefits, it’s important to consume them in moderation, added Dr Tiwari.
Here’s how you can make a powder from date seeds
Date seeds
Baking sheet
Oven
Blender or coffee grinder
Airtight container
Method
*Save the date seeds after eating the fruit. To ensure there is no leftover fruit meat, give them a thorough wash.
*Allow the seeds to air dry for a few days after spreading them out on a baking sheet after washing them. Make sure they are thoroughly dried to stop the growth of mold.
*Roast the seeds. Set the oven’s temperature to 200°C (390°F).
*Arrange the seeds onto a baking sheet and bake for around half an hour. “Roasting intensifies the flavour and facilitates grinding,” said Sushma.
*Give the roasted seeds time to cool down fully.
*Once the seeds are cool, grind them into a fine powder using a blender or coffee grinder. “This may take a few minutes depending on your equipment. You may need to grind in batches if you have a large quantity of seeds,” said Sushma.
*Store the date seed powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
How to use date seed powder?
*In smoothies: To add extra nutrition to your smoothies, mix in a teaspoon of date seed powder.
*When baking: Add the powder to baked products such as cookies, bread, and muffins.
*As a coffee substitute: Brew the powder just like coffee to make a nutty-flavoured, caffeine-free beverage, shared Sushma.
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First uploaded on: 18-06-2024 at 10:25 IST
