Figs are the most popular nuts when it comes to dry fruits. Figs are fruits that grow on the Ficus tree and belong to the mulberry family. In India figs are known as Anjeer. Figs are consumed in dried form, but there is nothing more beneficial than eating fresh figs.

The sweet, juicy flesh of figs loaded with crunchy seeds is an absolute delight. You can eat figs as a raw fruit, tossed them in salads, or grill them. Fresh figs have high nutritional value than dried figs. Fresh figs have the goodness of fiber, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, potassium. Figs also have several health benefits like they strengthen bones, promote vision, regulate blood sugar, and aids in weight loss. With health benefits, figs also have hair and skin benefits.

Types of figs

• Black mission– blackish-purple outside and pink inside figs are sweet and juicy. To increase flavor black mission figs can be added in cake, cookie, or dessert recipes.
• Kadota – less sweet, Kadotas are green with purple flesh. They are consumed as raw fruit.
• Brown Turkey – brown turkey figs are included in salads, they have purple skin and red flesh.
• Calimyrna – Calimyrna figs are larger when compared to other types of figs.  They have a unique and strong nut flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Figs

• Calories- 74kcal
• Fiber- 2.9gm
• Potassium- 232mg
• Vitamin A- 7mcg
• Sugar- 16.26 mg
• Vitamin K- 4.7mcg
• Calcium- 35mg
• Magnesium- 17mg
• Phosphorous- 14 mg

Here are 8 Benefits of Figs:

1. Weight loss

Figs contain a high amount of fiber that helps in weight management. High-Fiber foods make you feel full and satisfied for a long period. Figs are also high in calories, so make sure that you consume less in and do not eat more of it. 20 tips for reducing belly fat.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

People usually consume sodium in the form of processed foods, but low potassium and high sodium level may lead to high blood pressure. Figs are a good source of potassium and regular intake of figs helps in maintaining blood pressure because it tends to negate the harmful effects of sodium. Kiwi can help reduce high blood pressure

3. Strengthen Bones

Figs are rich in calcium that is one of the most important components in strengthening bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. The human body requires around 1000mg of calcium per day. Figs are rich in calcium and phosphorous, which encourages the bone formation and spurs regrowth if there is any damage in bones.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar

Fig leaves are rich in potassium that helps in regulating your blood sugar levels. The inclusion of fig leaves in the diet control the rise in blood sugar post a meal in insulin-dependent diabetics. You can consume fig leaves tea. Boil 4-5 fig leaves drink this as tea.

5. Promote Hair Growth

Hair loss occurs usually due to a lack of proper nutrients. Figs contain nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin E that promote hair growth. The essential nutrients present in figs stimulate blood circulation in the scalp to accelerate hair growth. Antioxidant properties present in honey prevent hair breakage

6. Macular Degeneration

Figs can help prevent macular degeneration, which is a major cause of vision loss. Figs contain a high amount of vitamin-A which enhances vision, protects the eyes from free radicals, and prevents retinal damage.

7. Boosts Heart Health

Figs help reduce the level of triglycerides in the body, which are fat particles and are a major cause of heart disease. Figs also have antioxidants to get rid of the free radicals in the body, which block the coronary arteries and cause coronary heart disease.

8. Rejuvenate Your Skin

Figs are used to treat several skin issues, such as eczema, and psoriasis. A nourishing, antioxidant-rich face mask can be made with fresh figs. Mash the figs, add a teaspoon of honey or yogurt. Leave the mask on for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Amla brings the natural glow back to the skin.

Side-effects of figs

With many health benefits, figs also have some side-effects:

Digestive symptoms– figs are high in fiber, eating too many figs can cause diarrhea. 

It does not help in losing weight– Figs are high in calories and eating them in abundance will not help you lose weight.

Allergies-People having an allergy to rubber latex and birch pollen may also be allergic to figs.

Medical interactions- figs have a high amount of Vitamin K.People taking blood-thinning medications need to keep the vitamin K levels in their diet consistent, so they should avoid figs.

Figs are not only delicious but have several health, skin, and hair benefits. So include this health and nutritious fruit in your daily diet.

Disclaimer:  This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. Jugaadin.com does not claim responsibility for this information.