Everything You Need to Know About Medjool Dates

Medjool dates are one of the most cultivated dates in the world. The name Medjool, also known as Majhool or Medjoul, is Arabic for unknown. Medjool dates are characterized by their large size and sweetness. 

The dates usually contain a single stone and their fruits are large and soft, with a distinct orange-yellowish flesh as well as a slightly rich and pleasant flavor. They usually sport an elongated shape and can stretch to a length of 7 cm and a width of 3cm. Their appearance is wrinkly and dehydrated.

Their scientific name is Phoenix dactylifera and the dates can either be cultivated and harvested for commercial purposes, or simply cultivated for landscaping value.

Origin

Medjool dates were originally cultivated in Morocco. They are believed to be native to Persia. However, with time, their popularity has grown and are now grown in other countries such as Iran, the United States, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Palestine and Jordan.

As a matter of fact, these dates have been aptly christened the king-of-dates due to their global abundance. They are also some of the few soft date varieties, as many dates are known to fall under the semi-dry and the dry categories.

Though these organic dates dates are now cultivated the world over, the Middle East still accounts for the bulk of their supply to global markets. Israel accounts for more than 60 percent of the entire global market of Medjool dates. This makes it the world’s largest cultivator and exporter of Medjool, thanks to the countries advancement in wastewater management technology.

You may also like: Saudi business visa.

How Do Medjool Dates Compare To Regular Dates?

Medjool dates majorly differ from other dates on the fact that though they are derived from the same plant, their cultivars are different. Medjool dates are often picked early, just as soon as they begin to ripe. During this period, they are often fairly soft, which is why they are also categorized under the soft varieties of dates.

Other notable soft dates include the Halawy and the Barhee. Medjool dates pack nearly the same nutritional value as Deglet Noor dates, even though the latter is considered a regular date under the semi-dry category.

And even though they have the same nutritional value, Deglet-Noor dates are more preferable for their lower content of beta-carotene and higher content of dietary fiber, fat, protein and lutein. However, these dates are more distinguishable by their consistence.

While Medjools are more squishy and therefore easier to eat, you will need to soak Deglet Noors in water before you can eat them.

What Are The Benefits Of Medjool Dates?

Aiding in digestion – Medjool organic dates are known for their high content of dietary fiber, something that makes them great for digestion. A single serving usually contains at least 6-grams of dietary-fiber. This equates to about 25% of the average dietary fiber you should consume on a daily basis.

Dietary fiber helps eliminate constipation in two ways. First, it stimulates the peristaltic motion [the contraction and relaxation of muscles in your digestive tract]. Also, it regulates bowel movements.

An efficient digestive system is crucial in dealing with problems such as stomach upset, abdominal bloating and cramping, as well as hemorrhoids.

Improvement of vision – Medjool dates are also lauded for their high content of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a very effective antioxidant that the body can convert into Vitamin A where it is used for, among other functions, eye care.

Vitamin A eliminates and prevents macular degeneration, inhibits the development of cataracts as well as lowers the propensity of your retina to develop oxidative stress.

Reducing cholesterol – If you are suffering from high cholesterol, you can greatly benefit from diets containing high fiber. As you may possibly know, nutritionists often shun dates for people suffering from obesity, thanks to their high calorie count.

However, medjool is a great exception. Its high dietary fiber content not only aids in digestion but also lowers the level of cholesterol in your body. The ultimate result is improved cardiovascular health.

Also, medjool has been associated with antiatherogenic properties, hence is ideal for people fighting with conditions like arteriosclerosis and atheroma.

Regulation of hormones – Medjool is one of the few organic dates that boasts lots of minerals, manganese being a notable mention. Manganese is known for its effectiveness in the production as well as regulation of body hormones, especially sex hormones.

Therefore, it is easier to see how medjool can be used as a natural remedy for hormone-related reproductive and erectile issues.

Promotion of growth – Medjool has a substantial level of protein, though not as high as is in other dates. However, if you add that to its other rich assortment of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, you will achieve an all-rounded growth and development.

In this regard, the date is especially recommended for children as well as people recovering from injuries or debilitating illnesses.

Strengthening of bones – As we have already seen, Medjool dates contain high levels of essential minerals such as manganese, magnesium, calcium and copper. These minerals are known for their remarkable bone strengthening abilities.

A diet of medjool dates will greatly benefit young children as well as those involved in workouts or other high-intensive physical activities.

Regulation of blood pressure – One of the minerals that medjool dates contain in high abundance is potassium.

Being a vasodilator, potassium can relieve tension in arteries, which ultimately reduces chances of developing arteriosclerosis, strokes or heart attacks. A diet rich in medjool dates will greatly help boost your cardiovascular health.

Boosting metabolism – Last but not least, medjool is a great metabolism booster. The dates contain B vitamins such as folic acid, niacin and pantothenic acid, all of which are effective in regulation of over 300 metabolic processes.

The presence of copper in medjool dates also facilitates the absorption of iron, thereby adding to the body’s overall energy generation mechanism.

Conclusion

Evidently, medjool dates are a welcome addition to any diet. Whether you are an athlete looking to strengthen his bones or suffering from a serious disease and need nutrients to set you off on the path of recovery, these organic dates are ideal for you.