Can dates increase the feeling of fullness?

Aug 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Consuming a moderate number of dates between meals, along with some water, allows the dietary fiber and sugars they contain to absorb water and occupy space in the stomach, thereby delaying the onset of hunger and potentially enhancing satiety. However, consuming a large quantity of dates at once or eating them on an empty stomach may lead to rapid absorption of their sugars, which not only fails to sustain satiety but may also make it difficult to maintain a feeling of fullness.

Generally speaking, dates may help increase satiety when consumed in moderation and accompanied with water or other foods. However, if consumed in excessive amounts or on an empty stomach alone, they may not effectively enhance satiety. A detailed analysis is as follows:

When a few dates are consumed between meals in moderation, along with some water, the dietary fiber and sugars they contain can absorb water, occupy space in the stomach, and delay the onset of hunger, thereby potentially enhancing satiety.

Consuming large quantities of dates at once or eating them alone on an empty stomach may cause their sugars to be rapidly absorbed, which not only fails to sustain satiety but may also lead to quicker hunger due to blood sugar fluctuations. In such cases, dates cannot effectively increase satiety.

When consuming dates, it's important to control portion sizes and combine them appropriately with other foods. If attempts to increase satiety through date consumption prove ineffective or if discomfort occurs after eating them, adjustments to the method of consumption should be made, and professional advice should be sought if necessary.