Health Benefits Of Figs
When I first hear the term fig, the first thing that immediately comes to mind are the infamous fig newton cookies, but what are figs really? Figs grow on the ficus carica tree which belongs to the mulberry family. Dried figs are better concentrated sources of minerals and vitamins but lets take a closer look at some of the amazing health benefits!
Figs are a great source of dietary fiber and make you feel satiated. So, it’s a great option for those who want to lose weight. The fiber content is also excellent for the digestive system and helps relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). What is it about amazing fruit that makes them so vitally important to our diet, lets take a look!
Figs And Fiber:
One of the most impressive nutrients is its fiber. Fiber helps keep your digestive system working efficiently. A fiber-rich diet also helps lower your overall cholesterol levels. Eating a diet rich in fiber is also a smart way to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes, and potentially reduce your chances of getting certain types of cancer. A 1/2-cup serving of fresh figs contains 2.9 grams of fiber. That translates to about 12 percent of the 25 grams of fiber women need each day and about 8 percent of the 38 grams men need daily.
Great For Skin Conditions:
Figs are rich in important nutrients like Vitamin B, C, phosphorus, potassium and minerals like calcium and magnesium which are essential for boosting and rejuvenating the skin’s health. The high omega 3 fatty acids in figs keep the skin well-moisturized and conditioned from within. Applying baked figs directly on the skin brings down various forms of skin inflammation like boils and abscess. It also cures minor zits and pimples. Apply fig juice on your feet to help treat and remove corns.
Figs and Insulin Sensitivity:
Yes more research needs to be done, but studies are now showing that fig leaves are also
surprisingly healthy when it comes to diabetes and heart disease. Several cultures use the leaves in cooking, particularly to wrap meats and fish. Studies have shown that an extract of fig leaves will increase insulin sensitivity, and may be useful for preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes. Studies on animals have also shown fig leaves to reduce the likelihood of heart disease as well as possibly kill cancer cells. Figs also contain oxalates, a chemical which can cause kidney and gall bladder stones when it becomes too concentrated in the body. Figs do not contain a large amount, although people with existing kidney problems should consume them in moderation.
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Thanks for Reading!
Chris
