Dates have a low glycaemic index (GI value). Low GI foods, when eaten regularly in moderate portions at a time, generally provide a slow release of energy, improve blood glucose control, may elicit a higher feeling of satiety and may decrease the risk of non-communicable diseases in the long term. Dates are also high in dietary fibre. The soluble dietary fibre in the dates play a role in glucose absorption and maintaining a healthy blood cholesterol level, while the insoluble dietary fibre helps to keep the gut healthy and contributes to regular laxation, thereby helping help to treat constipation.