When it comes to healthy morning rituals, there are countless options, and choosing one depends on what works best for you. Whether it's eating soaked dry fruits, drinking warm lemon and honey water, enjoying ghee coffee, or sipping herbal infusions, the possibilities are endless. However, every morning ritual should provide an energy boost and essential nutrients to help you power through the day. Let’s explore a morning ritual that not only fuels your day but also offers a wealth of health benefits.

Starting your day with soaked figs can be an excellent addition to a morning routine focused on health and vitality. Figs are nutrient-rich fruits that, when soaked overnight, become even more beneficial for digestion and overall wellness. Soaking figs enhances their texture and makes them easier to digest, allowing your body to absorb their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants more efficiently. They are packed with fiber, which helps regulate digestion and provides a gentle source of energy that sustains you throughout the morning. Additionally, soaked figs can help curb unhealthy cravings by promoting satiety, making them a smart choice if you're looking to start your day with a nutritious, filling snack.

Read this article to get an overview of the advantages of eating soaked figs, how to prepare them, and any potential side effects to consider.

Also Read: Fig/Anjeer: Nutrition, Ayurvedic, Therapeutic Benefits And Uses For Skin And Hair Health

Health Benefits of Eating Soaked Figs

Packed With Nutrients

Figs are heaped with essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins (like vitamins A, B6, and K), minerals (like calcium, iron, and magnesium), and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall wellness, including bone health, immune support, and energy production.

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Improves Digestion

The high fiber content in figs aids digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and may relieve constipation. Soaking figs makes them easier to digest, which can be especially helpful for those with sensitive digestive systems and remedies common digestive woes.

Heart Health

Soaked figs are low in fat and high in fiber, which can help diminish cholesterol levels. Additionally, potassium in figs supports maintaining blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of heart-related issues.

Supports Weight Loss

Eating soaked figs can be beneficial for weight management due to their fiber content. Having foods rich in dietary fiber keeps you satiated for a longer time, reducing the likelihood of overeating and shedding surplus kilos.

Antioxidant Effects

Figs are a storehouse of antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help neutralize free radicals and protect healthy cells from oxidative stress, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Though, figs are naturally sweet; they come under the low-to-moderate category of glycemic index. Thus, eating soaked figs in moderation can be a satisfying snack to curb hunger, reduce craving for something sweet and regulate blood sugar levels.

Bone Health

The goodness of bone-friendly nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in figs helps maintain bone density and health. Thus, having soaked figs serves as a good snack choice for those looking to augment stronger bones and avert the risk of fractures.

How to Make Soaked Figs

Preparing soaked figs is an easy process:

Both fresh and dried figs can be soaked. If you’re using dried figs, they may require a longer soaking time due to their dense texture.

Take about 3-4 figs in a glass of water and let them soak overnight. This process softens the figs, making them easier to digest and enhancing their flavour.

To reap maximum benefits, consume soaked figs first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. This is especially beneficial for digestive support and boosting energy levels throughout the day.

Possible Side Effects

Though soaked figs are safe and offer numerous health benefits, there are a few potential side effects to keep in mind:

Due to their high fiber content, consuming large amounts of figs may cause digestive upset, including diarrhea or bloating. Stick to moderate quantities to avoid this issue.

 Figs contain natural enzymes that may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to birch pollen or rubber latex.

While figs have a moderate glycemic index, they are still relatively high in natural sugars. Those with diabetes should eat figs in moderation and monitor their blood glucose levels.

Figs contain oxalates, which may interfere with calcium absorption if consumed in excessive quantities. This is usually only a concern with very high fig intake, so moderation is key.

Conclusion

Soaked figs are a healthy addition to your diet regimen. They offer a rich array of nutrients, that support digestion, promote heart health and manage weight. However, as with any food, moderation is key to avoiding potential side effects. Enjoy soaked figs as part of a wholesome and balanced diet to reap the most of their health incentives.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

 References:

Phytochemical Composition and Health Benefits of Figs (Fresh and Dried): A Review of Literature from 2000 to 2022

Amandeep K Sandhu 1, Maria Islam 1, Indika Edirisinghe 1, Britt Burton-Freeman 1,

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10255635/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372956694_EFFECT_OF_IMPREGNATION_OF_TWO_VARIETIES_OF_DRY_FIGS_ABRKANE_AND_TAAMRIOUTE_IN_OLIVE_OIL_TO_IMPROVE_THEIR_PHYSICOCHEMICAL_AND_BIOLOGICAL_PROPERTIES_EFFET_DE_L'IMPREGNATION_DE_DEUX_VARIETES_DE_FIGUES_SE