Speaking of Dates, Al Ajwa Dates

We had the opportunity to taste Al Ajwa dates at a trade show some months back. We thought they were unique, and so despite the fact they are called “the world’s most expensive dates”, we bought them for you.  I have some at home and treat myself to one each day.

What makes Al Ajwa dates different? They are the lowest glycemic-index date grown, and have been proven to be effective in controlling glycemia in type-2 diabetic patients (J. Agric.Food Chem. 2013, 61, 5834-5830); and they show moderate COX-1 and -2 enzyme inhibition, similar to ibuprofen for inflammation – but taste a lot better than ibuprofen (J. Agric. Food Chem. 2013, 61, 5834-5840).  Like all dates, they are rich in potassium to help with things like blood pressure, and full of magnesium to keep bones strong and heart rhythm steady. Do they contain fiber? Lots of fiber.