Dried Fig- The Wonder Fruit And Its Benefits

Figs are the fruit of the ficus tree, which is part of the mulberry family (Moraceae). Figs have a unique, sweet taste, soft and chewy texture and are littered with slightly crunchy, edible seeds. Fresh figs are delicate and perishable, so are often dried to preserve. This produces a sweet and nutritious dried fruit that can be enjoyed all year round. There are multiple different varieties of fig, all of which vary widely in color and texture. Figs are high in natural sugars, minerals and soluble fiber. Figs are rich in minerals, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and copper and are a good source of antioxidant vitamins A, E and K that contribute to health and wellness.

Dried figs will keep for much longer. When purchasing dried figs, you want to ensure that they are free from molds and are soft. Dried figs can be kept in a cool, dark place or in the fridge. Figs contain high levels of oxalates thus eating excessive amounts of figs is likely to have a laxative effect and so they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Dried fig can also be soaked and consumed, like almonds. Soak dried figs for 30 minutes before use so they’ll plump up nicely and puree in a jiffy! The soaking water can also be used in recipes since it’s rich in nutrients and delightful dark purple color, indicating the high antioxidant content.

Health Benefits Of Dry Fig

1. Figs are loaded with potassium, a nutrient that helps in controlling high blood pressure. Considering the present lifestyle and excessive consumption of processed food, your body may run short of potassium. This, in turn, may result in hypertension. Since dry figs are full of potassium, it’ll help you in maintaining a regulated blood pressure level.
2. Figs contain a type of antioxidant called phenols, which may lower your risk for heart disease and cancer by preventing cell damage by dangerous free radicals. Fiber lowers your risk for high cholesterol, heart disease and constipation.
3. The fiber in figs may also help you lose weight since it makes figs more filling, helping you eat fewer calories.
4. Dried figs are rich in antioxidants. Studies suggest that processed, dried figs are superior to natural figs when it comes to antioxidants. In fact dried figs have superior quality of antioxidants, called phenols, compared to other fruits that attribute their antioxidant property to vitamin C and E.
5. Dried figs are a rich source of iron. One dried fig can give you 2% of your daily iron requirement. Iron is an important mineral that carries hemoglobin throughout your body. So eating fig is a natural way to raise your hemoglobin levels indirectly by increasing the levels of iron in your body.
6. According to ancient literature, the Greeks used fig as a natural aphrodisiac. Figs were considered a sacred fruit and were closely associated with fertility and love. Scientifically, figs improve fertility and libido because they are loaded with minerals like zinc, manganese and magnesium, which play an important role in boosting reproductive health.
7. Figs are rich in dietary fiber. 3 pieces of dried figs contain 5 grams of fiber, which accounts for about 20% of our daily requirement. It’s a natural laxative for preventing constipation and other digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
8. Estrogen is a hormone, both women (and even men) have naturally. When functioning properly, our bodies produce the right amount at the time needed. However, environmental toxins, low-quality food, and even our health can all affect how much excess estrogen we take in. Too much estrogen in the body can lead to weight gain, mood swings, contribute to menopause problems or cause polycystic ovarian syndrome in women, cause headaches, and even breast or uterine cancer. Some foods naturally help remove harmful estrogens, and figs are one of the best, most well-known foods for this issue

The best blend of taste and health, dried figs must be included in your diet. To know more about this wonder dry fruit, click here.