Is date bread healthy?

Date bread is one of the best known Christmas desserts in Andalusia. Although it is made with natural and healthy ingredients, it is in the spotlight for the amount of calories it provides. Will it be a healthy sweet for these dates?

As its name suggests, date bread is made up of more than 90% per date. The rest are usually natural nuts or dried fruits that give it a crunchy touch and reduce the feeling of cloying. As we well intuit, it is difficult to eat too much date bread due to its texture and sweetness.

60 grams of sugar

Dates are healthy natural fruits, although the controversy is served with their sugar and calorie content. This Christmas sweet does not contain added sugar, since it only uses the one that naturally presents the date. However, for every 100 grams of product (half a loaf) we can find more than 60 grams of sugar.

In addition, it provides a good dose of fiber and carbohydrates, so it is to be expected that it is high in calories. Specifically, it can be around 350 calories for the same amount above. However, the caloric origin and the nutrients it provides are important. Compared to a commercial nougat, this one is free of flour and added sugars, so it could be considered healthier. The carbohydrate content is given by the date and the fruits added in less quantity. As a result, it is suitable for vegans and celiacs , although those allergic to nuts should pay attention to the trace content in food.

In this case, it should be noted that dates are not being used as a way to add flavor to an ultra-processed product. This fruit is the base of the sweet, so it is not used exclusively as a substitute for sugar. Although there are other versions, such as fig bread , which are made in the same way.

pan de datiles

Suitable for athletes

Dates are usually present in many energy bars for athletes. Their texture helps them to be more consistent and does not fall apart easily. Therefore, this date bread can be a great alternative for athletes who require an extra dose of energy before or during workouts.

Normally, long-distance runners or cyclists who take road and mountain routes usually carry snacks that serve as fuel. On these special dates, this Christmas dessert could be part of the backpack. We should only carry a good supply of water to reduce the sweetness that will remain in the mouth when chewing. In addition, we can find different versions accompanied by dehydrated coconut, walnuts, almonds or cashews. They have even been modernized by introducing cocoa for the most chocolatiers.

And if we are not extreme athletes, date bread can also be a healthy option if consumed in moderation and on time. Being dense there will be less risk of stuffing ourselves. With a small piece we will be satisfying one of the best Christmas cravings.