A date is a sweet fruit that grows in clusters on the date palm tree. The Medjool variety is the most common type eaten out of hand. Low in fats and high in carbohydrates, dates are a healthful source of calories.
Calories
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a single Medjool date delivers 66 calories. Around 64 calories are carbohydrates, while proteins provide 1.5 calories and fats offer about 0.5 calories per serving.
Components
The USDA also indicates that a single date weighs approximately 24 g. Of that quantity, 18 g are carbohydrates, of which 16 g are sugars, 0.5 g are proteins and 0.04 g are fats. Other nutrients and water comprise the remaining portion.
Nutrients
Certain vitamins are also available in Medjool dates. These include vitamins A, B6 and K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate and pantothenic acid. Dates also provide important dietary minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper and manganese.
Health
As with any food high in sugar, Medjool dates should be eaten in moderation. According to the Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension, excessive amounts of dietary sugar can contribute to nutritional deficiencies, tooth decay, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
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