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Dates are one of the oldest fruits cultivated by man, with legends and myths about this romantic fruit dating back to antiquity. Referred to as the "Tree of Life" in Genesis, the date palm was believed to be created from dates served as a food staple for nomadic desert tribes whose diets consisted of dates, milk, and honey. Through these migrant tribes the date palm spread to the deserts of Arabia and North Africa and eventually to Spain and the New World. It was also believed that Dates were a delicacy served by monarchs and royal familes offering mythical powers of virility and strength. Today dates can be found in many forms and varieties. Diced dates are used in high fiber cereals and in many bakery products. The imported date variety is often preferred for baking because the sweetness is enhanced and their "meatiness" remains through the baking process. The healthy aspects of dates make them favorable to people on low fat or high fiber diets. Many active people snack on dates as a natural energy source. Dates are also a good source of potassium and will qualify as one of your "5-A-Day" fruits.
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