During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset without having any food or water. They have dedicated meals, one before dawn to bulk-up on foods that keep them fueled through the day and the evening feast to break their fast. The kind of food served varies from region to region but dates are doted on by one and all.

Date, the sweet product of the date palms is one good looking fruit! It isn't just an exemplary fruit but a sacred one as well. Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) was once reported to have said "A house without dates has no food." Muslims continue his tradition and break their iftar (evening feast) with dates.

Dates boast of a large number of vital nutrients and health benefits. If you're looking for fiber, potassium, or copper, look no further than dates. They contain 54% sugar, 7% proteins and are recommended for those with poor heart health. They reduce the risk of a stroke and improve digestion.

And that's not all; dates are known to have a high magnesium content that helps regulate the levels of calcium, vitamin-D and electrolytes in the body. They propel the insulin levels in the body and help with an instant energy-boost. Good things certainly do come in small packages. Here are five creative ways of including dates in your diet.

Date Cake

This egg-less date cake makes a perfect post-dinner treat. Dates, sugar, flour and milk come together to make a soft sponge which is sprinkled with almonds for a crunchy finish.

Date Milkshake

A thick and creamy milkshake that you and your family will enjoy. It's chilled, delicious and keeps you high on energy through the day.

Date Halwa

A glossy, crunchy halwa flavored with dates, cashew nuts and a generous amount of cardamom.

Date and Walnut Pie

A crunchy walnut and date mixture is poured onto a baking tray lined with stretchy dough to make a rough and tough, hard-crusted pie.

Persian Date Dessert

Ranginak or Persian Date Dessert Recipe is a traditional Persian dessert that usually served with a cup of black tea. This is a really easy dessert recipe using, dates, walnuts, butter, flour and spices.