Figs are among the oldest fruits known to humans, with their origin traced back to Turkey and northern India. Today, the United States, Turkey, Greece, and Spain are among the main producers of dried figs.
Fresh figs are typically available from July to September, while dried figs can be found year-round.
Benefits of Figs for the Stomach
People with stomach discomfort may eat one whole fig several times a day, or drink a tea made by boiling one to two tablespoons of fig leaves.
Figs have many digestive health benefits. They contain compounds that help relieve constipation and promote healthy bowel movements. Figs may also ease indigestion, and eating dried figs along with plenty of water can help cleanse the intestines due to their high fiber content.
However, those with diarrhea should avoid eating figs, as they may worsen the condition.
Constipation can occur from eating too many processed or high-fat foods and not getting enough fiber or fluids—problems that figs can help alleviate when eaten moderately.
General Health Benefits of Figs
-
Helps regulate diabetes symptoms:Both fig fruits and fig leaves have shown beneficial effects for diabetes management.A 2016 animal study found that fig leaf extract improved insulin sensitivity and had anti-diabetic properties. Another 2003 study on animals showed that fig extract helped restore normal vitamin E and fatty acid levels in the blood.
-
Aids in weight loss:Figs are a good source of fiber, which helps promote satiety and may assist in weight management. However, they should be eaten in moderation since excessive intake may add extra calories.
-
Lowers cholesterol levels:Figs contain pectin, a soluble fiber that helps remove cholesterol from the body and improves bowel movements.
-
Supports hair health:Figs are often used in hair care products due to their moisturizing and strengthening properties. They contain essential minerals like zinc, copper, and magnesium, which help promote healthy hair growth.
-
High nutritional value:Figs are low in calories and fat, yet rich in calcium, making them an excellent plant-based calcium source.One cooked cup of figs provides about 180 mg of calcium.They also contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, and iron.Additionally, figs have antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
-
Supports skin health:Traditionally, figs have been used to help treat eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Their antioxidant compounds make them suitable for skin masks.⚠️ However, direct contact with fig leaves can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s recommended to avoid long sun exposure and to use sunscreen if applying fig-based remedies to the skin.
Nutritional Value of Figs (per medium fig ≈ 50 g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 37 kcal |
| Water | 39.55 ml |
| Protein | 0.38 g |
| Fat | 0.15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.59 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Calcium | 18 mg |
| Iron | 0.18 mg |
| Magnesium | 8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 7 mg |
| Potassium | 116 mg |
| Zinc | 0.07 mg |
| Vitamin C | 1.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 71 IU |
| Vitamin K | 2.4 µg |
| Vitamin E | 0.06 mg |
Possible Side Effects of Figs
Most people can eat figs safely, but some may experience side effects:
-
Allergic reactions:Figs belong to the Moraceae family (mulberry family), which can cause allergies in sensitive individuals.People allergic to jackfruit or sugar apple may also react to figs.Those with latex allergies can sometimes have cross-reactions to figs.
-
Lowering blood sugar:Figs may reduce blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should monitor their glucose levels when consuming them.Anyone planning surgery should avoid eating figs for at least two weeks before the operation to prevent blood sugar fluctuations.
-
Medication interactions:Figs are rich in vitamin K, a nutrient that promotes blood clotting. Therefore, individuals taking anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) should be cautious and avoid exceeding the recommended daily intake of vitamin K.
Post a Comment