If you are still thinking whether to include figs in your diet or not, then read below about its benefits, and your doubts will be dispelled!
Health and food specialists from Mangia, an iconic New York restaurant, advise you to take into account the information below for your diet and eating habits. Mangia’s staff is always encouraged to see people healthy and happy. That is why only the best food and meals are offered here as well as TOP-level catering. Feel free to contact us and order your meal of choice anytime.
Figs are one of the oldest fruits consumed by humans. Some scholars even believe that the forbidden fruit that Eve collected was a fig, not an apple. Intriguing, right? Did you know that figs were Cleopatra’s favorite fruit? Want to know more about this legendary fruit and its health benefits? Read below.
The health benefits of figs
This fruit is rich in fiber and many essential minerals such as magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, potassium, and vitamins K and B6. By the way, interestingly, the nutritional value of dried figs is greater than that of fresh ones. One dried fig is as good as an egg. Also, this fruit, both fresh and dried, is rich in antioxidants. How does it affect the body? Here are its most important useful properties.
Improves Digestion
Figs are rich in fiber, and a diet high in fiber is essential for the digestive system to function properly. Figs can help relieve constipation and diarrhea, and keep you feeling full, which keeps you from overeating. The average fruit contains only 70 kcal, which means figs are a good addition to your diet.
By the way, if you are fond of proper nutrition, then read about the benefits of flax seeds for weight loss.
Improves heart health
Triglycerides are fatty particles in the blood that are a major cause of heart disease. Figs reduce their levels and help improve heart health. In addition, the antioxidants in this fruit scavenge free radicals in the body that block coronary arteries and cause coronary artery disease.
Regulates blood pressure
Given the current lifestyle and excessive consumption of processed foods, the body may not have enough potassium, and this, in turn, can lead to hypertension. Since figs are full of this mineral, they will help you maintain your blood pressure levels.
Rich in antioxidants
Figs are a source of antioxidants, and they neutralize free radicals in the body and fight disease. The wider the fruit, the more antioxidants it contains.
Strengthens the immune system
Figs kill bacteria and viruses in the body that can cause health problems. They contain nutrients such as potassium and manganese, which, along with antioxidants, strengthen the immune system.
Prevents the appearance of wrinkles
Research has shown that fig extract has antioxidant and anti-collagenase effects on wrinkled skin and reduces the percentage of wrinkle depth.
Another study found that a formulation containing fig extract significantly reduced skin melanin, transepidermal water loss, and sebum. It also increased skin hydration. Hence, figs can be used as a remedy for hyperpigmentation, acne, freckles and wrinkles.
Promotes hair growth
Hair loss usually occurs due to a lack of a balanced diet. Figs contain magnesium, vitamin C and vitamin E, which are beneficial for hair, which promote hair growth. The main nutrients present in this fruit stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, accelerating hair growth.
Fig disadvantages and side effects
While it is an incredibly healthy fruit, there are some side effects you should be aware of if you decide to empty your supermarket fig stall.
Heaviness in the abdomen
Overeating figs can cause stomach heaviness and bloating. While constipation sufferers can benefit from it, it can be quite painful for others. Drink cold water after eating figs to help with stomach problems.
Sun sensitivity
Despite the benefits of figs to the skin, they also cause sensitivity to UV rays, which can harm the skin and lead to premature aging. Avoid prolonged sun exposure when eating a lot of this fruit.
May damage the liver
Figs can also be harmful to the liver because they can cause obstruction in the intestines from the seeds. The seeds in this fruit are hard enough to be digested easily and quickly.
May interfere with calcium absorption
Figs contain oxalates, which interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body. This intervention results in calcium deficiency, which can lead to weakened bones and other related diseases.
