Superfood Spotlight: Figs

Figs

What are they?

Im sure growing up we’ve all had fig newtons and associate the fruit with the sweet treat but figs go beyond your small square cookie. Figs are full of nutrients that make them a superfood for many reason to mention. These little guys grow on a tree that is the mulberry family and turn from green to a pink or purple color when they are ready to be picked and enjoyed! You can enjoy them fresh or some like them dried.

Harvest Time

Vitamin/Mineral Content

Vitamins: Vitamin A, B6, C, K, and Thiamine

Minerals:Calcium, Magnesium,Manganese, Potassium

Other: great source of fiber, antioxidants called polyphenols

Nutrition profile actually changes when figs are dried increases manganese and magnesium a lot, doubles vitamin K and potassium.

 

Health Benefits

Amazing Antioxidant: with the help of these power houses this puts figs at the top of the list in helping to prevent disease and oxidative stress to our bodies that could lead to signs of early aging.

Antibacterial and Antifungal: figs are known for there immune boosting properties hence their rich source of vitamin C that is sure to increase your immune function and help to fight bacteria or fungus.

Gut Health/Weight Loss: with 5g of fiber for every 3 fig serving these little guys pack a lot. With that said they easily maintain a healthy GI in that everything moves smoothly which can also lead to a healthy weight maintenance or loss.

Heart Health: When figs are dried they contain phenols, and omegas 3 & 6. These fatty acids are powerhouses in that they reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Not to mention the leaves of the figs have an effect on triglyceride leveling aiding in lowering them.

Diabetic Control: Consumption of fig leaves actually lowers the need for insulin in those that need insulin injections. Rich in potassium makes them regulate the amount of sugar that is absorbed by the body after eating a meal. When larger amounts of potassium is consumed this can ensure spikes and falls in blood sugar are less frequent.

Prevention of Hypertension:

Hypertension can be caused by a large amount of sodium in the diet and not enough potassium to overcome that. Figs have a great amount of potassium which can help to weigh out the sodium in your diet.

 

Whether you want to add something sweet to your snack or add a little sweetness to your next sauce or vinaigrette the sky is the limit with these little superhero superfoods.

 

Healthfully Yours,

Krystal Goodman

Resources

 

15 Best Benefits of Figs or Anjeer


https://draxe.com/figs-nutrition/