Fig Fruit Benefits

Figs have a high nutritional profile and come with a sundry of benefits. These fruits are jam-packed with vitamins like A and B, and dietary minerals like iron, calcium, and manganese. Whether it is a fresh fig or its dried version, the nutritional value of the fruit does not change. Following are some of its benefits:

Figs being rich in calcium help to strengthen the bones and maintain normal bone density, thus preventing the development of bone-related disorders like osteoporosis in old age.

High-fiber foods play a very important role to soften the stools. This allows the intestines to get rid of the stools easily. The fiber content in figs is extremely high, so regular consumption of figs will keep constipation at bay, as it encourages bulky stool formation.

It is found that figs are a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Therefore having few servings of figs can definitely save the heart from a wide range of diseases. Omega-3s can also help to prevent cancer and other inflammatory diseases, so one can understand how important it is to consume this 'magical' fruit.

It is a known fact that potassium-rich foods help to prevent high blood pressure. Figs are low in sodium but their potassium content is very high, thus making them ideal to prevent and manage hypertension effectively.

Studies have shown that figs have an important soluble fiber, known as pectin that does an amazing job of lowering cholesterol levels. Pectin restricts cholesterol absorption in the intestine, in turn contributing to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Thus, for healthy cholesterol, eating few servings of this seasonal fruit is certainly recommended.

Eating figs can help to protect the colon from various diseases. Regular consumption of figs ensures healthy bowel function and can provide protection against colon cancer.

For optimum eye health, eating figs is definitely a good choice. Figs are excellent sources of vitamin A, which prevents deterioration of eyesight that occurs with age.

Figs also have a commendable antioxidant capacity. The two constituents abundantly found in figs are phenols and flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants, that provide anti-aging effects. A glowing skin or good eyesight in old age are some of the advantages of these antioxidant-rich foods.

Being seasonal fruits, figs are not available throughout the year and usually sold in the market in early fall. However, whenever they are available, one should not give a second thought in purchasing these nutritious fruits.