1. Boost Energy

Whether you’re an athlete or just like to keep active, dates are a great idea. Why? “Because the potassium and fruit sugar is perfect for refueling the brain and muscles as you power through exercise,” says Nanninga. If you need a quick burst of energy midday, instead of going for a second cup of coffee, grab a handful of dates. If you don’t like them plain, whip up some energy balls or oatmeal bars packed with dates to fight the midday slump.

2. Strengthen Bones

Most people know that getting enough sunlight and foods with vitamin D is vital for bone health, but the combination of minerals like magnesium and copper packed into dates make them a superfood for strengthening bones too. Whether you are looking to fight off existing osteoporosis or bulk up your bones as a preventative measure, dates could help. These cranberry date bars are perfect for making on Sunday and snacking on all week long.

3. Promote Heart Health

Consistently making heart-healthy dinners is one way to help your ticker, but dates are high in potassium, which is essential to keeping your heart in tip-top shape too.

4. Reduce Inflammation

Magnesium is a mineral known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and you can definitely get your share of it in dates. A study with over 3,700 participants showed that a diet rich in magnesium was associated with a lower concentration of markers of inflammation in post-menopausal women. Turmeric can also help reduce inflammation.

5. Improve Sleep

Craving a little extra shut-eye? “Dates help your body to produce melatonin, which in turn helps your sleep quality,” says Nanninga. Dates are also high in fiber, which takes time to digest and can keep you feeling full throughout the night. She suggests eating one date two hours before bedtime.

6. Offset Anemia

If you’re iron-deficient, dates are a great way to help you get back on track. A single serving contains about 1 mg of the necessary mineral. Give these chocolate date energy balls a try for an iron-rich snack.

7. Encourage Weight Gain

If you struggle to put on pounds, dates are a healthy way to increase your body weight. While they’re packed with nutrients, they’re also packed with calories. A serving of four dates clocks in just shy of 270 calories.

8. Induce Calm

Feeling stressed? Suffering from panic attacks? “Dates are a calming and healing food because they are so nutrient rich, high in fiber, and are naturally sweet without any added sugar,” says Nanninga. She adds that studies have shown that dates can help lower inflammation in the brain and can help with the health of your nervous system