We often hear that red dates (also called jujubes) are good for us, but do we really know why? And even more importantly—are we eating them the right way to get the most out of their goodness?

Let's break down the benefits and the best ways to enjoy red dates. You might just want to add them to your daily routine after this!

1. Red dates help our skin look brighter

A lot of us—especially women—might deal with low iron levels, especially during our teenage years or pregnancy. That's when red dates come in handy. They're rich in iron and great for improving our blood, especially for those with monthly fatigue or after childbirth. What's more, they contain a natural substance called cyclic AMP, which helps our body create new cells and get rid of old ones. This not only boosts our blood but also keeps us feeling fresh and energized.

2. They give our skin a natural glow

If we work in front of screens all day (like many of us do), our skin can get dry and dull fast. Red dates are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin P. Fresh dates have 7 to 10 times more vitamin C than oranges and 75 times more than apples! That's wild, right? They even beat lemons when it comes to vitamin P. So if we want soft, plump, and smooth skin, adding red dates to our snacks might be one of the easiest beauty hacks ever.

3. They slow down wrinkles (seriously!)

Wrinkles are totally normal, but who doesn't want to keep them away just a little longer? The vitamin C in red dates is a powerful antioxidant. It helps prevent dark spots and reduces pigmentation, keeping our skin clearer. And it slows down the breakdown of our skin cells. So yeah—red dates aren't just tasty; they're a little time machine for our face.

4. They support stronger posture and nails

If your back sometimes aches and your nails break easily, it could be a sign of low calcium. Red dates are a good source of this mineral. Among different types of date-based foods, “drunken dates” actually have the highest calcium content—about 75mg per 100g. But for a non-alcohol option, we can still get solid calcium from regular dried red dates.

5. Yes—they can help with weight control

We might not think of dates as a “diet” food, but they help our gut work better. Red dates encourage digestion by helping our bowels move, which is key if we're trying to feel lighter. Plus, if we tend to snack when we're bored, chewing on a red date is way better than chips. Just remember—they're naturally sweet, so if we're watching our calories, it's best to enjoy them in moderation.

The best way to eat red dates for energy and blood

Just munching on dried red dates? That's okay, but not the most effective. If we want the full benefits—especially for our blood—we need to prepare them the right way. Try this: roast red dates in a dry iron pan until the skin turns dark, then steep them in hot water to make a nourishing tea. When they're roasted, the skin cracks open and releases all the good stuff inside.

Want to go one step further? Add a few slices of dried longan and 4–6 goji berries. This combo makes a great morning drink, especially if you talk a lot at work (hello teachers, receptionists, and team leaders!). It soothes the throat and supports skin health. Just don't go overboard—6–8 red dates and a few goji berries per cup is enough.

More nourishing combos with red dates

Here are some cozy combos we can try at home:

• Red dates + peanuts + longan + brown sugar: Simmer together in water to make a sweet, warming drink that's great for energy and blood.

• Red dates + red beans + glutinous rice: Cook into a thick porridge. It's filling and comforting, especially in cooler weather.

• Red dates (cut up) + goji berries (about 10): Boil into a simple tea. It's said to help with tired knees and a weak lower back, and over time, it may also brighten our skin.

Let's make red dates our daily wellness buddy

Lykkers, now you know red dates aren't just a snack—they're a superfood in disguise. Whether we want better skin, more energy, or just a healthier body overall, adding a few red dates to our day can make a real difference. Have you tried making red date tea or porridge before? Or do you have a go-to combo that works wonders for you? Let's chat in the comments—I'd love to hear how red dates have helped you! Ready to add these little powerhouses to your routine? Let's glow from the inside out, together.