Figs are an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants and other important nutrients.
Figs are one of the summer favorites fruits, we should consume it in moderation. We can eat them fresh, dried and even in the form of jam.
While they are packed with nutrients, they also contain sugar that gives them that wonderful sweet taste.
Dietitian Maxine Smith, RD, LD, warns to be careful not to overdo it with figs, as six dried figs have about 24 grams of sugar. However, it is noted that the high fiber content of figs slows down the effect of sugar on blood sugar levels.
A medium-sized fig contains approximately:
- 37 calories
- 0.2 grams of fat
- 0.9 grams of protein
- 9.6 grams of carbohydrates
- 1.5 grams of fiber
- 194 milligrams of potassium
- 10 milligrams of magnesium
- 6 micrograms of vitamin K
- 0.1 milligrams of vitamin B6
What are the health benefits of figs?
These summer fruits contain fiber that supports healthy digestion, relieves constipation, and improves heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.
Essential nutrients such as copper, potassium, manganese, magnesium and vitamin K. Other foods that fight cancer, help control blood sugar, and aid in weight loss.
1. Fiber, minerals and vitamins
A great benefit of figs is their nutritional value. Two medium-sized raw figs provide 2 grams of fiber.
In this amount, they also contain many important minerals such as iron, magnesium and calcium. “Minerals are important for building strong bones, maintaining healthy blood pressure and absorbing nutrients from food,” explains the nutritionist.
2. They improve heart health
Studies show that fig extract can help heart health by lowering blood pressure, while others can improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL “good cholesterol” and lowering total cholesterol and triglycerides.
It should be noted that these studies were conducted in a laboratory, not in humans, and further research will be needed to scientifically determine the benefits of figs. The fiber contained in them reduces the risk of diseases such as colon cancer. heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
3. They improve digestion
Most fiber-filled fruits are great for digestion, and figs are no exception. Figs provide prebiotic nutrients that feed the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy microbiome can lead to a reduced risk of inflammation and better immune function.
Figs are also an amazing natural remedy for sluggish bowels. They are also ideal for people with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation.
In a study of 150 people with the syndrome, participants who ate 45 grams of dried figs twice a day experienced less bloating, less intestinal pain, and less straining to have bowel movements.
4. They balance blood sugar levels
Figs can also help keep blood sugar stable. A small study found that people with type 1 diabetes who drank fig leaf tea daily had lower blood sugar levels. For a month, those who drank the tea needed about 12 percent less insulin, a diabetes drug that helps maintain blood sugar.
Figs contain powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals like carotenoids and polyphenols, which may help reduce some of the inflammatory effects of diabetes on your body.
Are we eating more figs than recommended because of their laxative effects, the nutritionist warns? can cause pain in the intestine and diarrhea.