Figs contain many essential nutrients that are good for your health. Discover their many benefits, from supporting digestion, and heart health, to strengthening the immune system.
Figs, also known as figs, are one of the fruits that have high historical and religious value. This fruit is mentioned in the Quran as a fruit of paradise, showing how valuable this fruit is in the view of religion and culture.
Figs are known to have many benefits for health and body nutrition, making them a fruit that is worthy of being included in the daily diet.
Rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, figs provide a variety of health benefits that are a shame to miss.
Getting to Know and the Nutritional Content of Figs
Figs are native to the Mediterranean and Western Asia. They have thin skin and sweet, seeded flesh and come in a variety of varieties, including green, purple, and black.
The taste of this fruit is naturally sweet with a soft texture that makes it suitable for consumption in various forms, both fresh and dried.
Figs are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamin B6, potassium, and magnesium. The fiber content aids digestion, while vitamin B6 supports brain function. The potassium maintains blood pressure, and the magnesium is good for bones.
Benefits of Figs for Health
- Supports digestive health
Figs are rich in natural fiber that is beneficial for digestive health. Consuming figs can help overcome constipation and maintain intestinal health. The fiber in figs also functions as a prebiotic that supports the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
- Control your weight
The fiber in figs makes the stomach full longer, so it can help reduce daily calorie intake. Consuming figs as a healthy snack can also be an alternative to avoid foods high in sugar and calories.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
Figs contain antioxidants and soluble fiber that can help lower blood cholesterol levels. This soluble fiber can bind cholesterol and help remove it from the body, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Regulates blood pressure
Figs are rich in potassium, an essential mineral that plays a role in regulating blood pressure. Consuming figs regularly can help balance sodium and potassium levels in the body, which is essential for cardiovascular health.
- Maintain bone health
Figs are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, minerals that are essential for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. Consuming figs can help increase your daily calcium intake, especially for those who are lactose intolerant.
- Control blood sugar
Although figs have a natural sweet taste, their glycemic index is relatively low. The fiber in figs helps regulate the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Improves the immune system
The antioxidants in figs, such as vitamin C and polyphenols, can help boost the immune system. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help the body fight off infections and diseases.
- Maintain healthy skin
The vitamins and minerals in figs, such as vitamins C and E, play an important role in maintaining healthy skin. Figs can help moisturize the skin, reduce wrinkles, and fight signs of aging.
- Supports brain function
Figs contain magnesium, which is essential for nerve and brain function. Adequate magnesium intake can help improve concentration and cognitive function.
- Overcoming constipation
The high fiber content in figs is very effective in facilitating bowel movements and preventing constipation.
- Reduces the risk of cancer
The antioxidants in figs, such as phenols and flavonoids, can help fight free radicals that cause cell damage. Several studies have shown that consuming figs can help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.
- Strengthens hair
The vitamin and mineral content in figs, such as zinc, copper, and magnesium, can help strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
- Reduce stress
Figs contain magnesium and antioxidants that can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. These nutrients help balance hormones and calm the nervous system.
- Maintain eye health
Figs contain vitamin A and lutein compounds that are important for eye health. Consuming figs can help prevent macular degeneration and maintain optimal vision.
- Helps the detoxification process
The fiber in figs helps the body’s detoxification process by binding and removing toxins from the digestive tract.
- Overcoming anemia
Figs are rich in iron which is essential for the formation of red blood cells. Regular consumption of figs can help prevent anemia and increase energy.
- Improve liver health
The antioxidants in figs can help protect the liver from free radical damage. In addition, figs also have detoxifying properties that help remove toxins from the body.
- Reduces symptoms of inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of figs help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for those suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
How to Process Figs
Fresh figs have a high water content, while dried figs are more concentrated in terms of sugar and nutrients. Here are some ways to process figs for consumption:
- Fresh figs: These can be eaten fresh as a healthy snack. Alternatively, they can be cut into pieces and added to fruit or vegetable salads for a natural sweetness.
- Dried figs: Usually served as a healthy snack, added to cereal, yogurt, or used in baking such as cakes, breads, and muffins.
- Fig juice: Figs can also be made into fresh juice or added to smoothies to increase your daily fiber and nutrient intake.
- Jam and syrup: Figs are often processed into jam or syrup that can be used as a spread on bread or an addition to various dishes.
Figs are not only delicious, but they are also rich in various nutrients that are beneficial for the health of the body. From supporting digestion, and maintaining heart health, to increasing immunity, figs are an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Given its many benefits, it is no wonder that this fruit is referred to as the fruit of paradise in the Quran. Regular consumption of figs, both fresh and dried, can provide a positive contribution to long-term health.