The fig fruit has a long history of being a potent and nutritious food with a variety of health benefits, including the treatment of:
- Sexual dysfunction
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Piles
- Diabetes
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Heart disease
- High cholesterol levels
- Anemia
- High blood pressure
Fresh figs can also help you regain weight quickly and healthily following an illness.
Figs contain these nutrients
Figs are high in nutrients such as vitamins A, B1, B2, C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, sodium, potassium, chlorine, and dietary fiber.
- Pectin, found in figs, can absorb cholesterol and help excrete it from the body.
- They are high in fiber, which nutritionists claim can help prevent certain malignancies. Fiber may make the body feel full and is beneficial for weight loss. They encourage regular bowel motions and prevent constipation.
- Figs are high in antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, which can damage DNA and other biological systems, contributing to the development of cancer, heart disease, and the physical indications of aging.
- Dried figs contain more calcium than any other fruit. Just a quarter cup contains 100 mg of calcium. The calcium content of dried figs can help improve nail health, calm nerves and strengthen bones without causing any negative side effects.
- Dried figs contain enough potassium to help lower blood pressure. Potassium works as a vasodilator, reducing the strain on blood vessels and arteries. It reduces the likelihood of strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis by lowering the likelihood of coronary heart disease.
- Using figs can help the skin look younger and more radiant. Their high omega-3 fatty acid content nourishes the skin, fights signs of aging, and reduces acne flares. Figs can keep skin moisturized because of their anti-inflammatory compounds.
- A dried fig may contain two percent of the daily iron requirement. Iron is a vital mineral that transports hemoglobin throughout the body. Eating figs is a natural way to indirectly increase hemoglobin levels in the body, especially in anemic patients.
- Figs are a good option to add to the diet for people with diabetes. Dietary fiber-rich figs promote slow sugar absorption and digestion in the body. This feature is recommended for people with type II diabetes and those at risk of developing type II diabetes.
- Fruit-derived antioxidants are known to be more effective than vegetable-derived antioxidants, particularly when it comes to protecting eye health. To protect against yellow spot disease (macular degeneration), eat regular dried figs.
- Fig juice has traditionally been used to treat coughs and colds. It probably has mucolytic properties.
- According to medical studies, ethanolic extracts of fig leaves have a strong antipyretic action. Its action is said to be more effective than most commercial antipyretics because it lasts longer than five hours.
- The high amount of vitamin B6 in figs raises the levels of serotonin, which is responsible for mood enhancement while lowering cholesterol levels.
- Figs can help with insomnia. They contain the nutrient tryptophan. This promotes good sleep and assists the brain in properly utilizing sugars. It encourages and stimulates good circulation throughout the body.
- Because figs are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, they provide a sudden burst of energy or stamina, aiding in the prevention of issues, such as erectile dysfunction and a lack of stamina during intercourse. Figs are best consumed after being soaked in milk overnight to treat sexual problems.
Are there any side effects of eating figs?
The side effects of eating figs are:
- Because figs contain a lot of fiber, eating too many of them can cause diarrhea.
- Figs are high in calories, so eating a lot of them will not help lose weight.
- Individuals who are allergic to rubber latex or birch pollen could be allergic to figs.
- Figs contain a lot of vitamin K. People on blood-thinning medications should consult their doctor before incorporating it into their diet.
- Applying fig leaves to the skin may make skin more sun-sensitive.
Can I eat figs during pregnancy?
Yes. Figs are one of the world's healthiest foods. It is primarily advised for pregnant women. In pregnancy, fig intake can provide numerous health benefits for the body's stability. However, they should not be taken in excess because it may lead to a drop in blood sugar levels in pregnant women.
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
References
WebMD. Health Benefits of Figs. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-figs#1
Merschel M. Are Figs Good for You? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2021/08/05/are-figs-good-for-you-get-the-whole-sweet-story
Nagdeve M. Figs: Health Benefits & Nutrition. Organic Information Services. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-figs-or-anjeer.html
Merschel M. Are Figs Good for You? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2021/08/05/are-figs-good-for-you-get-the-whole-sweet-story
Nagdeve M. Figs: Health Benefits & Nutrition. Organic Information Services. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-figs-or-anjeer.html
Complete List
Top What Are the Benefits of Eating Figs Related Articles
Constipation
Constipation is defined medically as fewer than three stools per week and severe constipation as less than one stool per week. Constipation usually is caused by the slow movement of stool through the colon. There are many causes of constipation including medications, poor bowel habits, low-fiber diets, laxative abuse, and hormonal disorders, and diseases primarily of other parts of the body that also affect the colon.
Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. The two types of diabetes are referred to as type 1 (insulin dependent) and type 2 (non-insulin dependent). Symptoms of diabetes include increased urine output, thirst, hunger, and fatigue. Treatment of diabetes depends on the type.
High-Sugar Fruits
Sugar content in fruit varies. High-sugar fruits include mangoes, pears, grapes, cherries, bananas, figs, and watermelon. Low-sugar fruits include avocados, guava, raspberries, cantaloupe, papayas, and strawberries.
Indigestion (Dyspepsia, Upset Stomach Pain)
Indigestion (dyspepsia, upset stomach) can be caused by problems related to, or not related to the gastrointestinal tract. Signs and symptoms are upper abdominal pain, belching, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, and abdominal distention. Treatment depends upon the cause.
Healthy Living and Disease Prevention
The importance of a healthy lifestyle in disease prevention is widely understood and most people know that lifestyle changes and choices can be critical to good health. Learn about healthy behaviors that constitute healthy living.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a disease in which pressure within the arteries of the body is elevated. About 75 million people in the US have hypertension (1 in 3 adults), and only half of them are able to manage it. Many people do not know that they have high blood pressure because it often has no has no warning signs or symptoms.
Systolic and diastolic are the two readings in which blood pressure is measured. The American College of Cardiology released new guidelines for high blood pressure in 2017. The guidelines now state that blood normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. If either one of those numbers is higher, you have high blood pressure.
The American Academy of Cardiology defines high blood pressure slightly differently. The AAC considers 130/80 mm Hg. or greater (either number) stage 1 hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension is considered 140/90 mm Hg. or greater.
If you have high blood pressure you are at risk of developing life threatening diseases like stroke and heart attack.
REFERENCE: CDC. High Blood Pressure. Updated: Nov 13, 2017.
High-Fiber Foods
Learn about high-fiber foods. From fresh fruits to whole grains, these fiber-rich foods can lower cholesterol, prevent constipation, and improve digestion.
Home Remedies for Constipation
Constipation is usually an easily treatable problem. A few changes in diet, lifestyle, and making use of certain over the counter products can help relieve it. Here are seven natural home remedies to relieve constipation.
Best & Worst Juices
Although the best kinds of juice deliver a bounty of vitamins, the worst are hardly better than liquid candy. Learn to distinguish between the healthy juices and the unhealthy diet wreckers here.
Top 12 Foods for Constipation Relief
Constipation is a common problem, and almost everyone has been constipated at one time or another. There are foods that can help prevent constipation and also provide relief, for example, kiwi, prunes, beans (your choice of type), berries, certain seeds, potatoes, and popcorn.
15 Foods That Cause Constipation
Constipation or the decrease in frequency and/or difficulty in passing stools (bowel movements) can be caused by a variety of problems. Check out these top 15 foods to avoid because they cause constipation. Some foods to avoid include, white rice and bread, caffeine, bananas, alcohol, processed foods, and frozen dinners.
11 Exotic Fruits You Should Try
Exotic fruits like acai, guava, and papaya are loaded with vitamins and other nutrients. Learn when these exotic fruits are ripe, how to prepare them and what nutrition they offer.
What Fruits Should Diabetics Avoid?
Managing diabetes successfully is about managing a combination of blood glucose levels. Diabetics do not have to avoid fruit, but they should adhere to sensible portion sizes and watch their overall carb intake.
Which Fruits Are High in Potassium?
Potassium is an important mineral that plays a vital role in the body. Fruits that are high in potassium include bananas, cantaloupe, oranges, avocados, grapefruit, apricots, honeydew, guava and kiwi.