Figs are native to western Asia and have been cultivated since ancient times. There are many different types of figs, and they can vary in colour, shape, and taste.
Figs have many health benefits. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for helping protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to inflammation. Eating foods that are high in antioxidants also reduces the risk of some chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Overall, figs are a healthy and delicious fruit that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
What is the nutritional value of figs?
The nutrient value of 100 g of figs according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is as follows:
Water: 79.1 g
Energy: 74 kcal
Protein: 0.75 g
Carbohydrate: 19.2 g
Fibre: 2.9 g
Sugars: 16.3 g
Calcium: 35 mg
Magnesium: 17 mg
Phosphorous: 14 mg
Potassium: 232 mg
Choline: 4.7 mg
What are the health benefits of figs?
1. Is a good source of fibre
Figs are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibre, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Soluble fibre lowers cholesterol levels, while insoluble fibre prevents constipation. The fibre in figs also has probiotic properties that improve the overall digestive system.
2. May lower cholesterol levels
The soluble fibre pectin in figs may bind to cholesterol and remove it from the body. This can help lower your overall cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.
3. Reduces the risk of chronic diseases
Figs are a good source of several antioxidants, including polyphenols and carotenoids. These antioxidants can help protect your cells from damage and may reduce your risk of some chronic diseases.
The fibre in figs may remove cholesterol and other toxins from the body. It also slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help regulate blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of developing diabetes as well as heart disease and stroke.
4. Has anti-cancer properties
The antioxidants in figs may help protect cells from damage and reduce your risk of cancer. Additionally, figs contain a substance called ficin, which has been shown to have anti-tumour activity.
5. Aids in weight loss
The fibre in figs can help keep you feeling full and may help you eat less overall. Antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids in figs may help boost your metabolism and promote weight loss.
6. Boosts reproductive health
Figs have high iron content, and iron plays an important role in the ovulation process and sperm health. In females, it may cure irregular menstruation cycles due to hormonal imbalance.
What are the disadvantages of eating figs?
There are a few potential disadvantages of eating figs. They contain a compound called ficin, which can act as a natural laxative. This can cause diarrhoea and other digestive issues in some people. If you are prone to digestive problems, you may want to limit your intake of figs or avoid them altogether.
Figs are high-sugar fruit. While the sugar in figs is natural and not refined, it can still cause problems for people with diabetes or other blood sugar disorders. If you have any concerns about your blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor before adding figs to your diet.
Figs are a choking hazard for young children. The small seeds in figs can easily get stuck in a child's throat, so it's important to cut figs up into small pieces if you're giving them to young children.
Who should avoid eating figs?
Pregnant women and young children should avoid eating figs. Figs contain a compound called ficin, which can cause contractions in the uterus. This can lead to miscarriage or premature labour. Figs also contain a high amount of sugar, which can cause diarrhoea in young children.
What is the best time to eat figs?
Summer is the best time to eat figs because they are ripe and fresh in this season. In a day, the morning is the best time to consume figs. If you have stomach problems, soaking figs overnight and eating them the next morning can help cure that.
How many figs should I eat daily?
It depends on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health. However, most people can healthily consume up to 3 figs per day.
