Figs are a bit different from the most common fruits, although they belong to the mulberry family. These fruits contain a chewy texture that is not juicy like you might expect upon biting into a piece of fruit.
Most figs are eaten dried, but you can also eat fresh figs. These fruits are consume as far back as Bible times, but still continue to be a tasty but nutritious addition to your healthy eating plan.
Health Benefits of Figs:
1. Anticancer Properties
Figs are known in traditional medicine as a remedy for many health problems, including as a natural cancer treatment. A study conducted by the Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry at China Pharmaceutical University shows that some elements present in figs are toxic to various human cancer cell lines.
Although more research is needed, researchers are encouraged to learn more about how figs’ bioactive compounds can fight illness because of the success of numerous findings thus far.
2. Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal Properties
Figs act as a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. A review conducted by the Drug and Herbal Research Centre at the Universiti Kebangsaan in Malaysia cited two studies that reported the fig extract’s ability to fight a strand of oral bacteria, as well as various microbes and fungi.
Also, there are studies conducted in grass carp that shows the effectiveness of figs’ ability to stimulate immune system response, which make figs tremendous immune system boosters. This explains why figs are great common illness fighters, which are typically the work of invaders and bacteria.
3. Colon Cancer Prevention
Figs contain fiber, which helps in stimulating the elimination of free radicals and other cancer causing substances, in particular your colon. This is because fiber increases the healthy movement of the bowels.
4. Insulin-Lowering Properties
The leaves of the fig tree is one of fig’s edible parts. Also in some cultures, fig leaves are a common part of the menu, and for good reason. The leaves of the fig was known to have anti-diabetic properties and can help in reducing the amount of insulin needed by diabetic persons who require insulin injections.
In a study, a liquid extract, which was made from fig leaves was added to the breakfast meal of insulin-dependent diabetic participants in order to produce this insulin-lowering effect.
5. Prevents Macular Degeneration
Vision loss, most especially in older people is normally due to macular degeneration. Figs and fruits are good at helping you to avoid this very common symptom of aging.
6. Strengthen Bones
Figs are a rich source of calcium, which is one of the most important components in reducing the risk of osteoporosis and strengthening bones. Also, it is loaded with phosphorus, which spurs regrowth and encourages bone formation, if there is any degradation and damage to bones.
7. Weight Loss
Figs are a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber-rich foods and fiber have a positive effect on weight management.
In a study, women who increased their fiber intake using supplements significantly decreased their energy intake. But their satiety and hunger scores did not change. Figs, like other high fiber foods, are helpful in weight management.
Read More:
1. 6 Healthy Reasons to Eat Kiwifruit Everyday
2. Great Reasons to Eat More Grapefruit
3. Health Benefits of Quince Fruit