The iconic summer fruit, the fig, is not only delicious, but also precious for your health.
Extremely popular in the southern European countries, the figs have millions of fans and are dried in order to be consumed all year round.
The figs are rich in vitamins A, E, K, Β1, Β2. They are also excellent sources of minerals like calcium, copper, potassium, manganese, iron, selenium and zinc, as well as dietary fiber, minerals, and pigment anti-oxidants, contributing to the following:
Figs are often recommended to nourish and tone the intestines and act as a natural laxative because of their high fibre content. Many of us consume too much sodium (salt), found in processed foods. High intakes of sodium can lead to deficiencies of potassium and this imbalance between the two minerals can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure).
A diet rich in fruit and vegetables – including fresh figs, naturally increases potassium and is therefore encouraged to help lower blood pressure.
Naturally high in dietary fibre, figs can be a useful food to include in the diet for those watching their weight. High fibre foods provide feelings of fullness and can reduce hunger and cravings.
Figs also contain prebiotics, which help support the pre-existing good bacteria in the gut, improving digestive wellness.
Figs are a good fruit source of calcium, a mineral that is involved in bone density.
Their high potassium content may counteract the urinary excretion of calcium caused by high salt diets. This in turn helps to keep calcium in bones and lessens the risk of osteoporosis.
If you needed an excuse to indulge in your favorite fruit, in this case you have more than one. Enjoy!
