The date fruit has long been a traditional remedy for women approaching the end of pregnancy. Modern research is now investigating whether consuming dates in the final weeks of gestation can influence the birthing process. The fruit is packed with natural sugars, fiber, and essential nutrients. Studies suggest that this simple fruit may offer a natural way to help the body prepare for labor, focusing on the specific amount and timing required to achieve these benefits.
The Evidence: How Dates Affect Labor
The influence of date consumption on labor is rooted in biological mechanisms targeting the readiness of the uterus and cervix. Dates contain compounds that interact with the body similarly to oxytocin, the hormone responsible for stimulating uterine contractions. While the fruit lacks oxytocin, certain fatty acids within dates may enhance the sensitivity of oxytocin receptors in the uterine muscle. This increased sensitivity allows the uterus to respond more effectively to natural oxytocin, potentially leading to stronger contractions once labor begins.
Dates are also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid precursor to serotonin, which plays a role in smooth muscle contraction, including the uterus. Furthermore, the fruit’s nutritional profile may support the production of prostaglandins, compounds fundamental to cervical ripening (softening and dilation).
Clinical studies show that individuals who consume dates in late pregnancy often exhibit a higher Bishop score upon hospital admission, which assesses cervical ripeness. A higher score indicates a cervix more prepared for labor. Women who ate dates were also more likely to experience spontaneous labor, reducing the need for medical induction or augmentation. This preparation is believed to shorten the duration of the first stage of labor.
Recommended Timing and Dosage
Clinical trials indicate a specific window of time and quantity for date consumption to be effective. The practice should begin around the 36th or 37th week of gestation, about four weeks before the estimated due date. Starting too early or too late may prevent the biological mechanisms from taking effect.
The recommended daily intake is 60 to 80 grams of date fruit. This quantity has been the standard intervention in studies showing benefits like a more favorable cervix and a higher rate of spontaneous labor. The practical number of dates depends on the variety and size.
A dosage of 60 to 80 grams typically equates to six to seven medium-sized dates (e.g., Deglet Noor) or three to four larger Medjool dates. Consistency is important, and the dates should be consumed daily until the onset of labor.
To incorporate this quantity daily, you can use various methods:
- Eat the dates whole as a snack.
- Pit and blend them into a smoothie with milk, yogurt, or other fruits.
- Chop them up and mix them into oatmeal.
- Mix them into trail mix or energy balls.
There is no evidence suggesting that eating the entire daily amount at once is better or worse than spreading it out.
Safety Considerations and Who Should Avoid Them
Date consumption for labor preparation is safe, but considerations exist due to the fruit’s nutritional composition. Dates are naturally high in sugars, posing a risk for certain individuals, primarily those with gestational diabetes (GD) or those at risk of developing it.
The high carbohydrate load can impact blood glucose levels, requiring individuals with GD to carefully monitor their intake. Anyone with GD or blood sugar concerns should consult with their obstetrician or a registered dietitian before starting a date regimen. If approved, it is advised to start with a smaller quantity (one to two dates) and pair them with protein or healthy fats to slow glucose absorption and minimize blood sugar spikes.
The high fiber content of dates is beneficial for digestive health and preventing pregnancy-related constipation, but it can sometimes lead to uncomfortable side effects. Consuming six to seven dates daily may cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially when first starting the regimen. If symptoms are bothersome, reducing the daily amount temporarily or ensuring adequate water intake may help. Individuals concerned about weight gain should also be mindful of the high caloric density of dates.