Four Ways Eating Figs Can Improve Your Health
What Are Figs?
According to the Real Food Encyclopedia, figs (Ficus carica) are “the fruit of the ficus tree, which is native to the Middle East.” Their agricultural history goes back to at least 11,000 years to Mesopotamia which is now known as the Middle East, and it is believed that they are one of the first plants cultivated by humans. Some even believe that the fig is the actual fruit that Eve offered to Adam in the Garden of Eden and not the apple.
Four Health Benefits From Eating Figs
Promotes Digestive Health
Aids in Heart Health
Increases Bone Density
Supports Healthy Hair and Skin
Promotes Digestive Health
Figs contain an abundance of fiber and are an excellent home remedy for digestive issues and constipation. Instead of reaching for a laxative to get “things” moving, reach for some fresh or dried figs as a snack. Eating figs daily can reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and other digestive issues.
Figs Aid in Heart Health
Figs are a natural way to improve your blood pressure, blood fat levels, and cholesterol. This can help to improve your vascular health and decrease your risk of heart disease.
Increases Bone Density
Figs contain an excellent amount of calcium which is necessary for strong bones. This can reduce your risk of bone thinning and osteoporosis. Figs are also loaded with magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium which are all necessary for healthy bone support, maintenance, and growth!
Supports Healthy Hair and Skin
Figs are full of antioxidants and other vital nutrients that can strengthen your hair and skin. Two essential minerals that reduce hair loss and aid in new hair growth are zinc and iron, both contained in figs.
In conclusion, figs are a delicious fruit with many health benefits. Consider adding them to your daily diet as a natural alternative to treat and manage many health ailments.
So, are you "figging"?
Fun Facts About Figs:
Did you know that figs are actually an inverted flower? That’s right! They are the enlarged, fleshy stem of an inflorescence, which is a cluster of flowers and seeds inside a bulbous stem.
References:
Figs. FoodPrint. (2023, November 7). https://foodprint.org/real-food/figs.
Simpson, A. (2022, September 23). 5 health benefits that make figs so good for you. Plant Me Green. https://www.plantmegreen.com/blogs/news/5-health-benefits-that-make-figs-so-good-for-you.
Healthline Media. (n.d.). Medical Information and Health Advice You Can Trust. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/