Figs or anjeer, the fruit with many seeds is also known as Mother Nature’s candy, thanks to its high levels of natural sugars.
Figs are oval-shaped fruits available in various colours – green, purple, red, yellow and black with softer exteriors and crunchy interiors. Fresh figs are available till the end of December, while dried figs can be bought all year around.
Known for sweet, juicy versatile taste, consuming figs – fresh or dried will help you to reap its enormous health and beauty benefits.
Figs are best for your health, rich in soluble fibre, a storehouse of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and many essential vitamins like K, B6 and minerals such as magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, and potassium all loaded in one single fruit. Dried figs are dense in nutrients than that of fresh ones.
Health Benefits Of Figs
Digestive Health
The abundance of soluble fibre in figs improves digestion, which promotes bowel movement and alleviates constipation. Soak about 3 dried figs overnight in water and drink it first thing in the morning to bid adieu to constipation. It also helps in treating diarrhoea and improving gut health.
Good For Heart Health
The presence of pectin, a soluble fibre in figs helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Soluble fibre removes excess triglycerides and helps in eliminating triglycerides. In addition, dried figs contain Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, phytosterols that are cardioprotective and help in improving brain health.
Prevents Cancer
The goodness of soluble fibre in figs helps in eliminating the free radical and other cancer-causing components particularly in the colon and promotes healthy bowel movement. Figs are a great source of bioactive compounds like phenols and omega fatty acids and these help in lowering the risk of skin, colon and breast cancer. So, start eating figs regularly to keep cancer at bay.
Controls Diabetes
Figs are rich in soluble fibre that help in controlling blood sugars and leaves of figs are potent in lowering insulin required for a diabetic patient. It is also rich in potassium that controls blood sugar spikes, regulates blood glucose levels and reduces high blood sugar symptoms.
Healthy Skin & Hair Growth
Figs are not just tasty and healthy fruits to eat but also has numerous natural components that can make skin glow instantly. Applying a paste of figs will enhance the absorption of nutrients by the skin. Blend fig paste and curd well, apply it over the skin, let it stay for 15 minutes and wash well. You will be surprised to see your skin glowing naturally.
The rich nutrient profile of figs promotes hair health and growth.