Okay so, again, I am obviously no medical or health expert so I am starting this article out by sharing what has been recommended to me & will link a few articles so you can do your own reading and research and make a decision about what is best for you and your baby.
What are they dates? Dates are one of the most naturally sweet fruits in existence. They are high in fiber, loaded with potassium, magnesium and iron and B6. Dates are also good for your gut health because they can act as a prebiotic for healthy guy flora. The two main types you’ll see in a grocery store are Medjool (sweet, large, chewy & sticky) and Deglet Noor (smaller, firmer and lighter flavor).
Where can I find dates? In your local grocery store (typically in the produce section) and usually in plastic containers or plastic bags. They can also be found in the bulk food section at stores like Whole Foods and Fresh Market. You can also buy them pitted so there is one less step for you when eating them.
Why should I eat them in pregnancy?
- they can stimulate uterine contractions
- they can reduce postpartum hemorrhages
- can help alleviate cramps in pregnancy due to high amounts of magnesium
- can help your baby’s spinal cord maturity with the help of their folate
According to this study, women who ate six dates a day for the four weeks leading up to their due date were:
- 74% more dilated than non-date eaters at admission to birthplace
- 38% more likely to have intact membranes
- 21% more likely to spontaneously go into labor
- 28% less likely to use prostin/ocytocin to induce labor
Additionally, the date eaters had:
- 77% shorter first stage of labor
When should I start eating them? In the study referenced above, pregnant women began eating 70-75g of dried dates per day three or four weeks before their estimated due date.
Okay, so how should I start eating them? It’s kind of intimidating. Recommendations?
Some of my favorite date recipes for the non date lover —
- Brownie Energy Balls — my favorite of all time
- Take the pit out, dip in peanut butter & add a few chocolate chips or melted chocolate drizzle or make these peanut butter buckeye balls
- Add them to a smoothie to sweeten your drink (like this one)
- Pecan Energy Bars (made with dates)
- Coconut Date Balls (linked here)
- 9 different date and nut energy bites (linked here)
Let me know if you try any of these & your fav way to eat dates!
XOXO,
Hil
hrmarciano 