Breaking fast with dates has always been a Ramadan tradition. For centuries they have been prized for their health-enhancing benefits. Here's a snapshot of the Ramadan superfood.
Commonly known as date or date palm is a tree of the palm family (Arecaceae) cultivated for its sweet edible fruits.
The date is a one-seeded fruit, or drupe, usually oblong but varying much in shape, size, colour, quality, and consistency of flesh, according to the conditions of culture and the variety.
The fruit has been the staple food and chief source of wealth in the irrigable deserts of North Africa and the Middle East.
It is one of the world's most popular dates. Has thick outer-skin and deep brown colour, is easy to identify with its large elongated shape and pointed end. Has a caramel-like taste.
These are found exclusively in Egypt. Has dark red skin, longish structure, and crunchy in texture, is also high on sweetness scale.
They are the most fragile dates. They have a firm skin. The flesh turns amber then golden brown when stored. They are small to medium in size. They are rich with a syrupy flavour.
Eating dates after a long day of fasting helps the body's blood glucose levels return to normal. It also curbs hunger and provides energy for a long time.