Apples-fresh | Real Raw Food

Apple Chips

Certified Organic Apple Chips from Local Farms

Experience the delightful crunch and sweetness of our Certified Organic Apple Chips, sourced from local farms. These apple chips are organically grown and dried at a low temperature to preserve their natural flavor and nutritional value.

Overview Our Certified Organic Apple Chips are made from apples grown on local farms. They are dried at a low temperature, resulting in a crunchy, sweet, and tasty snack that's perfect for any time of the day.

Key Features

Certified Organic: Apples are grown organically on local farms, ensuring no harmful pesticides or chemicals are used.
Low-Temperature Dried: Dried at a low temperature to retain natural flavor and nutrients.
Crunchy and Sweet: Provides a deliciously crunchy texture and naturally sweet flavor.
Nutritious Snack: A healthy snack option, packed with fiber and essential vitamins.

Benefits

Healthy Snacking: Low in calories and high in fiber, making it a perfect snack for those seeking a healthy alternative.
Natural Ingredients: Made from 100% organic apples, with no added sugars or preservatives.
Convenient: Easy to carry and perfect for on-the-go snacking.

Usage Instructions

Enjoy these apple chips as a nutritious snack on their own, or add them to your favorite recipes for an extra crunch and flavor. They are great for topping cereals, yogurt, or even adding to salads.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 80
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 0mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 21g (7% DV)
- Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
- Sugars: 17g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin C: 8% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 2% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$20.00

Apple Peel Powder

Organic Apple Peel Powder from the South Okanagan, BC

Experience the concentrated nutritional power of our Organic Apple Peel Powder, sourced from the nutrient-rich apples of South Okanagan, BC. This powder harnesses the benefits of apple peels, which are packed with polyphenols, fiber, and antioxidants.

Overview The peel is the most nutritious part of the apple, containing up to six times the polyphenols, including flavonoids, compared to the apple flesh. These compounds provide tremendous antioxidant activity, contributing to various health benefits. Our apple peel powder is an excellent source of fiber, particularly pectin, which aids digestion and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Key Features

Rich in Polyphenols: Contains high levels of polyphenols, such as proanthocyanidins and catechins, which offer antioxidant benefits and support heart health.
High in Fiber: Packed with soluble fiber, particularly pectin, which aids in digestion, supports a healthy microbiome, and helps regulate cholesterol levels.
Nutrient-Dense: Offers the nutritional benefits of apple peels in a convenient powdered form, perfect for enhancing various recipes.
Organic: Sourced from organically grown apples in South Okanagan, BC, ensuring a pure and natural product.

Benefits

Antioxidant Activity: Polyphenols in apple peel powder can lower total cholesterol levels, raise HDL cholesterol, inhibit LDL cholesterol oxidation, and block inflammatory responses.
Digestive Health: High fiber content improves bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial bacteria.
Anti-Inflammatory: In vitro research confirms that apple peels modulate the inflammation response.
Disease Prevention: Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, lung and colon cancer, and atherosclerosis.
Great Taste: Adds a pleasant flavor to your meals and beverages.

Suggested Dosage

Take 1 teaspoon, 1-3 times per day. Mix into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or other favorite recipes for an easy nutritional boost.

Usage Instructions

Our apple peel powder can be used as a supplement or an ingredient in various dishes. It's perfect for adding to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or baking recipes to boost the nutritional content and add a sweet, apple flavor.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 20
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 0mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 5g (2% DV)
- Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Sugars: 3g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin C: 2% DV
Calcium: 1% DV
Iron: 1% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$15.00

Apricots - Dried

Organic Apricots from Naramata, BC

Experience the distinct tartness and natural quality of our Organic Apricots, sourced from a neighbor's land in Naramata, BC. These apricots are grown on land that has never been treated with sprays or chemicals, ensuring a pure and flavorful fruit.

Overview Our Organic Apricots are grown in Naramata, BC, on land that has never been farmed with sprays or chemicals. These apricots are tarter than the typical Turkish varieties and are unsulphured, resulting in a chewier texture.

Key Features

Certified Organic: Grown without the use of sprays or chemicals, ensuring a pure and natural product.
Tarter Flavor: These apricots have a distinct tartness, setting them apart from sweeter Turkish varieties.
Unsulphured: Free from sulphur, making them chewier than sulphured apricots.
Locally Sourced: Harvested from a neighboring farm in Naramata, BC, supporting local agriculture.

Benefits

Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber.
Digestive Health: High in fiber, which supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Natural Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from free radical damage.

Usage Instructions

Enjoy these apricots as a healthy snack, or add them to your favorite recipes. They are particularly well-suited for baking, adding to oatmeal, or incorporating into salads for a tangy twist.

Packaging Information

Size: The 5lb size comes in a box with a liner to ensure freshness and ease of storage.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in a box with a liner to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 48
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 0mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 12g (4% DV)
- Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Sugars: 9g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 12% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 2% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$22.00

Banana Powder - Green

Certified Organic Green Banana Powder from Peru

Experience the exceptional nutritional benefits of our Organic Green Banana Powder, made from the cooking banana, also known as Musa paradisiaca. This versatile powder combines the starchy qualities of a plantain with the slight sweetness of a banana, making it an ideal addition to your diet.

Overview Organic Green Banana Powder is derived from the cooking banana, Musa paradisiaca, which is a hybrid of a banana and a plantain. It offers the extra starch of a plantain while maintaining some natural sugars, giving it a mildly sweet taste. Commonly used for cooking due to its reduced sweetness, Musa paradisiaca is the most common plantain found in American grocery stores.

Key Features

Organic and Nutrient-Dense: Made from organically grown cooking bananas, ensuring a pure and natural product.
Versatile Flavor: Combines the starchy texture of plantains with a slight sweetness, perfect for various culinary uses.
Nutrient-Rich: High in potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and manganese.

Benefits

Cardiovascular Support: Rich in potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
Energy and Metabolism: Provides a natural source of energy and helps boost metabolism.
Liver and Kidney Support: Contains nutrients that support liver and kidney health.
Nervous System Health: High in vitamin B6, which is crucial for maintaining healthy nervous system function.
Skin Health: Contributes to healthy skin due to its high vitamin C and antioxidant content.

Usage Instructions

Incorporate this versatile banana powder into your daily diet by adding it to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or baked goods. It can also be used as a natural thickener in soups and sauces or as a substitute for flour in certain recipes.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 90
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 1mg (0% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 24g (8% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
- Sugars: 14g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin B6: 20% DV
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Potassium: 400mg (11% DV)
Manganese: 10% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$11.00

Banana Powder - Ripe

Certified Organic Ripe Banana Powder from Peru

Banana powder is used in many recipes, from breakfast cereals, smoothies, baking goods, snacks, and even ice cream. While the primary use for banana powder is as a flavoring agent, it is also a source of dietary fiber, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals. Our raw organic sweet banana powder is wonderfully sweet and absolutely delicious, making it a cinch to add to smoothies, desserts, and other recipes. Our organic sweet banana powder is sweet and delicious.

A banana has four times more protein than an apple, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals.

Raw organic bananas contain potassium, protein, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins: A, B, B6, C, and E, and minerals: calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc folate (also known as vitamin B9 and natural folic acid). It also contains serotonin which may elevate the mood and help fight stress. Being rich in iron, bananas may stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood, thus helping in cases of anemia. Because of its high potassium but low sodium content, it is indicated for those having problems with arterial pressure. It may help the body’s circulatory system deliver oxygen to the brain. This also helps maintain a regular heartbeat and a proper balance of water in the body.

Raw bananas are quality sources of energy due to their high glycogen levels. Bananas are ideal for eating during that midday lull when you feel tired and sluggish. If you want a quick fix for flagging energy levels, there is no better snack than an organic Banana. Banana’s three natural sugars are Sucrose, Fructose, and Glucose, giving an instant, sustained, and substantial energy boost when combined with fiber. Research has proven that just two Bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. But energy supply is not the only way a Banana can help you get fit. It may also help overcome or prevent many other illnesses and conditions.

Bananas may lift your spirits because they contain tryptophan, the same chemical found in turkey. This mood-regulating substance includes a level of protein that helps the mind relax so you feel happier. People suffering from depression often report feeling better after eating a banana. Bananas naturally contain vitamin B6, which helps to regulate blood glucose levels and improve overall mood.

Banana Powder also works excellently as a rejuvenating face mask. Just mix it into plain yogurt, and your skin will thank you! Some possible traditional uses of Raw Organic Banana Powder may include:

May Ease depression because bananas increase your serotonin levels

Fighting anemia by stimulating the production of hemoglobin

May regulate Blood Pressure because of high potassium and low salt levels

Reducing constipation because of high amounts of fiber

Assisting learning & alertness by bringing more oxygen to the brain

Curing hangovers when made into a shake with milk & honey

Soothing heartburn May Reduce the risk of strokes Helping avoid morning sickness

Calming Nerves Easing Peptic Ulcers by neutralizing acidity & reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach

Cooling fruit that can lower both the physical & emotional temperature of expectant mothers Helping ease the effects of nicotine withdrawal Reducing stress due to its high mineral content

Bananas contain:

Vitamins: Vitamin C, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B-6, Folate, Choline, Vitamin A (IU), Lutein & Zeaxanthin, Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), Vitamin K (phylloquinone)

Minerals: Potassium, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Selenium Amino Acids: threonine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, cystine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, valine, arginine, histidine, alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, serine

This product is 100% natural and minimally processed. Taste, smell, texture, and color vary from batch to batch. This powder tends to clump. If clumping occurs, lay the bag on a flat surface and place a towel over the bag. Then pound on the bag until the clumps break up. The towel will help protect the bag from damage.

Suggested Use: Mix 1 - 2 teaspoons with juice and yogurt or add to your favorite smoothie. Use to add flavor and nutrition to any recipe. Ideal for dry fruit preparations, powdered drinks, cake mixes, desserts, etc. Reconstituted powder with water at a 1:3 ratio and use as you would mashed bananas.

Grown and dried in Peru and Certified Organic.

G-F, Organic

$12.00

Banana Slices

40% OFF (BBD Oct 2024)

Certified Organic Apple Bananas from Uganda

Experience the delightful taste and chewy texture of our Certified Organic Apple Bananas, sourced from the fertile lands of Uganda. These apple bananas are dried at peak ripeness to create a sweet, tropical treat.

Overview Our Certified Organic Apple Bananas are grown in Uganda, known for its rich soil and ideal growing conditions. These bananas are stout and plump with a thick taut peel. As they ripen, they develop a tropical flavor profile with notes of pineapple and strawberry and a strong tart-apple aroma.

Key Features

Certified Organic: Grown in Uganda under strict organic farming standards, ensuring no harmful pesticides or chemicals are used.
Peak Ripeness: Dried at peak ripeness to preserve their natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Tropical Flavor: Offers a complex flavor profile with notes of pineapple, strawberry, and tart apple.
Nutrient-Rich: Contains significant amounts of potassium and fiber, and higher levels of vitamins C and A compared to common bananas.

Benefits

Heart Health: High in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Digestive Health: Rich in dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Immune Support: High in vitamins C and A, boosting the immune system and promoting overall health.
Energy Boost: Provides a natural source of energy, making it an ideal snack for any time of the day.

Usage Instructions

Enjoy these dried apple bananas as a nutritious snack, or add them to your favorite recipes. They are particularly well-suited for baking, adding to oatmeal, or incorporating into trail mixes for a tropical twist.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 90
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 1mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 23g (8% DV)
- Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
- Sugars: 16g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Calcium: 0% DV
Iron: 2% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$7.20

Baobab Powder

Certified Organic Baobab from South Africa

Experience the exceptional nutritional benefits and unique flavor of our Certified Organic Baobab, sourced from the ancient and drought-tolerant Baobab trees in South Africa.

Overview The Baobab tree, Adansonia digitata, also known as the upside down tree and monkey bread tree, is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is one of the oldest trees on the planet. These trees reach heights of 5–25 meters and can have trunk diameters up to 7 meters. The versatile tree offers young leaves that can be eaten like spinach or dried for tea, and its fruit pulp is known for its nutritional value and pleasant pear-like flavor with a mildly acidic aftertaste.

Key Features

Certified Organic: Sourced from South Africa, ensuring no harmful pesticides or chemicals are used.
Natural Processing: The fruit pulp dries naturally on the tree, and only a mechanical process is used to obtain the soft, powdery pulp without heat extraction, freeze-drying, or pasteurization.
Unique Flavor: The pulp has a pleasant flavor reminiscent of pear with a mildly acidic aftertaste due to its high organic acid content.

Benefits

Nutrient-Dense: Contains a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
High Vitamin C Content: Six times more vitamin C than oranges (300 mg/100g).
Energy Boost: Thiamine (Vitamin B1) and Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) contribute to increased energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Immune Support: Boosts the immune system and enhances iron and calcium absorption.
Rich in Calcium and Potassium: Two times more calcium than milk (280 mg/100g) and six times more potassium than bananas (150 mg/100g).
High Fiber Content: Thirty times more fiber than lettuce (44 g/100g), benefiting the digestive and intestinal system.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Contains two times more antioxidants than Goji berries (25,000 umole TE/100g), aiding in inflammation reduction.
Iron-Rich: Provides more iron than red meat, supporting the circulatory system.
Low in Sugar and Fat: A healthy addition to any diet.

Applications/Use

This versatile ingredient can be used in energy bars and drinks, fruit smoothies, ice creams, jams, sauces, chocolate, baked goods, and yogurt. Incorporating it into your daily diet can supplement your recommended daily allowance of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 10mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 85g (28% DV)
- Fiber: 44g (176% DV)
- Sugars: 30g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin C: 300% DV
Vitamin B6: 50% DV
Calcium: 28% DV
Iron: 15% DV
Potassium: 15% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$10.00

Camu Powder

Certified Organic and Wild-Crafted Camu Camu from Peru

Experience the unparalleled nutritional benefits of our Certified Organic and Wild-Crafted Camu Camu, sourced from the lush rainforests of Peru. Known as “nature’s vitamin pill,” this extraordinary berry offers the highest naturally occurring vitamin C content of any food on the planet.

Overview The small red Camu Camu berry is revered worldwide for its exceptional vitamin C content and numerous nutritional and medicinal attributes. Our Camu Camu is freeze-dried to preserve its nutrient potential, ensuring you receive the highest quality product.

Key Features

Certified Organic and Wild-Crafted: Harvested from the pristine rainforests of Peru, ensuring a pure and natural product.
High Vitamin C Content: Contains the highest naturally occurring vitamin C content of any food on the planet.
Freeze-Dried: Preserves the nutrient potential of the berry, maintaining its rich vitamin and mineral content.
Pinkish Pulp: The natural color of the pulp is pinkish, offering a higher vitamin C content and better taste compared to the rest of the fruit.
Pure and Potent: It takes 25 lbs of Wild-Crafted Camu berries to produce 1 lb of powder, ensuring a concentrated and potent product.

Benefits

Immune Support: High vitamin C content boosts the immune system and helps fight off illnesses.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Rich in antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage.
Energy Boost: Provides a natural energy boost, enhancing overall vitality.
Skin Health: Promotes healthy, glowing skin due to its high antioxidant and vitamin C content.
Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.

Usage Instructions

Stir 1 teaspoon or more into water, juice, smoothie, or yogurt with a spoon or blender. This versatile powder does not require refrigeration, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (5 grams)
Calories: 10
Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
Protein: 0g
Vitamin C: 590mg
Calcium: 6mg
Iron: 0.36mg
Potassium: 7mg

More Info

G-F, Organic, Raw, Wild

$100.00

Cherries - Dried

Organic Cherries from Summerland, BC

Enjoy the sweet and tart flavor of our locally sourced dried cherries, carefully dried at a low temperature to preserve their natural goodness. These cherries are grown on chemical-free land and treated only with a light spray of ascorbic acid to maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value.

Overview Our dried cherries are harvested locally and dried at low temperatures to ensure they retain their natural flavor and nutrients. The land they are grown on has never been treated with any chemicals, providing you with a pure and natural product. Due to a very hot summer and a shortage of workers, these cherries are smaller but packed with intense flavor.

Key Features

Chemical-Free: Grown on land that has never been sprayed or treated with chemicals.
Low-Temperature Dried: Dried at low temperatures to preserve flavor and nutrients.
Ascorbic Acid Treatment: Lightly sprayed with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to maintain color and freshness.
Natural and Pure: Free from any artificial additives or preservatives.
Flavorful: Small in size but rich in taste due to the intense summer heat.

Benefits

High in Antioxidants: Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body.
Supports Immune Health: Contains vitamin C, which supports immune function and overall health.
Digestive Health: High in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
Heart Health: Contains nutrients that support cardiovascular health.

Usage Instructions

Enjoy these dried cherries as a healthy snack, or add them to your favorite recipes. They are perfect for baking, adding to cereals, yogurt, or trail mixes. *Please note that the cherries may contain pits.

Storage Instructions

Packaging: Stored in resealable packaging to maintain freshness.
Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 120
Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
Sodium: 0mg (0% DV)
Carbohydrate: 29g (10% DV)
- Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Sugars: 25g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 2% DV

G-F, Organic, Raw

$20.00

Cranberries - Dried

Certified Organic Cranberries from Canada.

Larger berries are halved to ensure each slice is perfectly soft and coated lightly with organic sunflower seed oil and sweetened with organic apple juice.

Ingredients: Organic cranberries, organic apple juice, organic sunflower oil (less than 1%).

Non-GMO. No added preservatives, flavors or colors. Certified organic.

G-F, Organic

$12.00

Dates - Barhi

Certified Organic from California.

Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free, high in B-complex vitamins magnesium, potassium, carbohydrates and a good source of dietary fibre.

Barhi dates are a small to medium sized variety, with a round shape. They have thick amber to golden brown soft flesh, with a sweet and delicate butterscotch or caramel flavour. Our family favourite! Their thin red skin has a tendency to dry out, so keep them tightly wrapped and refrigerated in an airtight container.

Proven Health Benefits of Dates

Very Nutritious
Dates have an excellent nutrition profile.

Most of the calories in dates come from carbs. The rest are from a very small amount of protein. Despite their calories, dates contain some important vitamins and minerals in addition to a significant amount of fiber.

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving provides the following nutrients:

• Calories: 277

• Carbs: 75 grams

• Fiber: 7 grams

• Protein: 2 grams

• Potassium: 20% of the RDI

• Magnesium: 14% of the RDI

• Copper: 18% of the RDI

• Manganese: 15% of the RDI

• Iron: 5% of the RDI

• Vitamin B6: 12% of the RDI

Dates are also high in antioxidants, which may contribute to many of their health benefits.

High in Fiber
With almost 7 grams of fiber in a 3.5-ounce serving, including dates in your diet is a great way to increase your fiber intake.

Fiber can benefit your digestive health by preventing constipation. It promotes regular bowel movements by contributing to the formation of stool.

In one study, 21 people who consumed 7 dates per day for 21 days experienced improvements in stool frequency and had a significant increase in bowel movements compared to when they did not eat dates.

Furthermore, the fiber in dates may be beneficial for blood sugar control. Fiber slows digestion and may help prevent blood sugar levels from spiking too high after eating.For this reason, dates have a low glycemic index (GI), which measures how quickly your blood sugar rises after eating a certain food.

High in Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect your cells from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that may cause harmful reactions in your body and lead to disease.

Compared to similar types of fruit, such as figs and dried plums, dates appear to have the highest antioxidant content.

Here’s an overview of the three most potent antioxidants in dates:

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and have been studied for their potential to reduce the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and certain types of cancer.

• Carotenoids: Carotenoids are proven to promote heart health and may also reduce the risk of eye-related disorders, such as macular degeneration.

• Phenolic acid: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, phenolic acid may help lower the risk of cancer and heart disease.

May Promote Brain Health
Laboratory studies have found dates to be helpful for lowering inflammatory markers, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), in the brain. High levels of IL-6 are associated with a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Additionally, animal studies have shown dates to be helpful for reducing the activity of amyloid beta proteins, which can form plaques in the brain.

When plaques accumulate in the brain, they may disturb communication between brain cells, which can ultimately lead to brain cell death and Alzheimer’s disease.

One animal study found that mice fed food mixed with dates had significantly better memory and learning ability, as well as less anxiety-related behaviors, compared to those that did not eat them.

The potential brain-boosting properties of dates have been attributed to their content of antioxidants known to reduce inflammation, including flavonoids.

May Promote Natural Labor
Eating these fruits throughout the last few weeks of pregnancy may promote cervical dilation and lower the need for induced labor. They may also be helpful for reducing labor time.

In one study, 69 women who consumed 6 dates per day for 4 weeks prior to their due date were 20% more likely to go into labor naturally and were in labor for significantly less time than those who did not eat them.

Another study of 154 pregnant women found that those who ate dates were much less likely to be induced compared to those who did not.

A third study found similar results in 91 pregnant women who consumed 70–76 grams of dates daily starting the 37th week of pregnancy. They were in active labor for an average of 4 fewer hours than those who did not eat dates.

The role dates may have in pregnancy is likely due to compounds that bind to oxytocin receptors and appear to mimic the effects of oxytocin in the body. Oxytocin is a hormone that causes labor contractions during childbirth.

Additionally, dates contain tannins, which are compounds that have been shown to help facilitate contractions. They are also a good source of natural sugar and calories, which are necessary to maintain energy levels during labor.

Excellent Natural Sweetener
Dates are a source of fructose, which is a natural type of sugar found in fruit.

For this reason, dates are very sweet and also have a subtle caramel-like taste. They make a great sugar substitute in recipes due to the nutrients, fiber and antioxidants that they provide.

The best way to substitute dates for sugar is to make date paste by mixing dates with water in a blender. A rule of thumb is to replace sugar with date paste at a 1:1 ratio.

Other Potential Health Benefits
Dates have been claimed to have a few other health benefits that have not yet been extensively studied.

• Bone health: Dates contain several minerals, including phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. All of these have been studied for their potential to prevent bone-related conditions like osteoporosis.

• Blood sugar control: Dates have the potential to help due to their low glycemic index, fiber and antioxidants. Thus, eating them may benefit diabetes management.

G-F, Raw

$23.00

Dates - Halawi

Un-Certified Organic from California.

Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free, high in B-complex vitamins magnesium, potassium, carbohydrates and a good source of dietary fibre.

Halawi dates are a small to medium sized variety, with an oval shape. They have a tender amber flesh, with a light honey flavour. Their thin light brown skin has a tendency to dry out, so keep them tightly wrapped and refrigerated in an airtight container.