Work

Date ( Phoenix dactylifera L.) Fruit as a Functional Food for Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery: A New Perspective

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Nutrition plays a crucial role in optimal athletic performance, taking into account hydration techniques, glycogen storage, and carbohydrate sources. Date fruit is a nutrient‐dense, functional food that offers several benefits for athletes. This review discusses dates' chemical composition and potential benefits in replenishing glycogen stores, preventing hypoglycemia, and supporting the central nervous system. These include carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids and carotenoids. Dates that are better than other diet options in terms of nutrient density and functional benefits would be presented and applied in sports nutrition products, such as energy bars. The application of dehydrated fruits and their phytochemical profiles for performance improvement and recovery will also be addressed. Helpful recommendations touch on the timing of meals, how fruits should be taken, and dispelling myths surrounding natural sugar sources. According to investigations, an athlete's consumption of date fruits offers both short‐term and long‐term health benefits, and it has been proven to be an important supplement to current sports nutrition strategies.

Source: eFood

DOI: 10.1002/efd2.70055

Authors: Sammra Maqsood, Muhammad Tayyab Arshad, Ali Ikram, Muhammed Adem Abdullahi

Institutions: University of Agriculture Faisalabad, University of Lahore, Jimma University

Language: English

Topic: Date Palm Research Studies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500