Dried figs are super-rich in minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, selenium and zinc. While Potassium aids in balancing the body fluids that regulate blood pressure and heart rate, iron is a vital mineral essential for the formation of red blood cells and overall health
Fig Nutrition Profile
Figs are low on calories. Around 100 grams of fresh figs provide just 74 calories and immensely rich in soluble dietary fibre, essential nutrients and a host of plant compounds that contribute to healing health benefits. Figs are a powerhouse of antioxidant flavonoids which include carotenes, lutein, tannins, chlorogenic acids and vitamins A, E and K which assists in scavenging free radicals and prevents a host of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and reduces inflammation.
Moreover, fresh figs are heaped with B complex vitamins like niacin, pyridoxine, folates, and pantothenic acid which acts as co-factors for metabolism. Also Check: 6 Amazing Fruits To Lead A Healthy Life – Infographic
Dried figs are super-rich in minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, potassium, selenium and zinc. While Potassium aids in balancing the body fluids that regulate blood pressure and heart rate, iron is a vital mineral essential for the formation of red blood cells and overall health.
Nutrition Value Per 100g of Fresh Fig
Energy 74 Kcal
Carbohydrates 19.18 g
Protein 0.75 g
Total Fat 0.30 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Dietary Fiber 2.9 g
Folates 6 µg
Niacin 0.400 mg
Pantothenic acid 0.300 mg
Pyridoxine 0.113 mg
Riboflavin 0.050 mg
Thiamin 0.060
Vitamin A 142 IU
Vitamin C 2 mg
Vitamin E 0.11 mg
Vitamin K 4.7 µg
Sodium 1 mg
Potassium 232 mg
Calcium 35 mg
Copper 0.070 mg
Iron 0.37 mg
Magnesium 17 mg
Manganese 0.128 mg
Selenium 0.2 µg
Zinc 0.15 mg
*Source As Per USDA
Stronger Bones
Figs are heaped with a rich array of essential minerals and vitamins which play a key role in strengthening bones and lowers the risk of osteoporosis. Being one of the foods rich in calcium and phosphorus anjeer promotes the formation of bones and stimuli regrowth of bones if there is any injury or deterioration of bones. A serving of fresh stewed figs offers you with 180 mg of calcium and vital vitamins C and K necessary for strengthening the bone density.Manages Diabetes
The American Diabetic Association recommends anjeer to be taken as part of a regular diet as it is high on fibre which assists in stabilizing the blood sugar levels. The leaves of figs are also heaped with vital nutrients that facilitate to lower the insulin needs for individuals who are on insulin. Furthermore, anjeer with ample amount of potassium helps to regulate blood sugar spikes post meals and maintain blood glucose levels under control. Also Read: Jamun: Medicinal Uses, Therapeutic Benefits For Skin, Diabetes And Supplements
Promotes Heart Health
Several pieces of evidence reveal that figs lower the level of triglycerides in the bloodstream and avert the risk of heart disease. Anjeer rich in soluble fibre pectin clears away the clogged cholesterol and eliminates it out of the body through the excretory system. In addition, high on antioxidants and potassium dried figs regulate blood pressure, scavenges free radicals from the body and prevent blockage of arteries and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Treats Alzheimer’s Disease
Evidence strongly supports that a diet abundant in figs helps in treating neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and eases neuroinflammation. Anjeer is loaded with umpteen amounts of dietary fibre, copper, zinc, magnesium, potassium, vitamin K and antioxidants promote memory, reduce anxiety and improves the learning skills in Alzheimer’s patients.
Prevents Age Related Macular Degeneration
Fig is a valued fruit as it assists in preventing age related macular degeneration, a major reason behind vison loss in elderly people. Regular intake promotes healthy vision in all age groups.
Treats Insomnia
Dry anjeer is highly beneficial for people suffering from insomnia and it is one of the sleep inducing foods. The goodness of tryptophan promotes sound sleep by improving blood circulation in the body.
Respiratory Problems
The richness of essential nutrients like protein, carbohydrate, fibre, vitamins A, C and minerals iron, calcium in anjeer hydrates the respiratory system and naturally clears the phlegm, soothes the sore throat, reduces the cough and other lung obstructions.
Dental Health
The presence of phenolic compounds in anjeer exhibits anti-caries activity and thwarts off bacteria causing dental infection. The flavonoids and phytochemicals in anjeer fruit exhibit potent antibacterial activities which reduce bacterial infections, guard gums, teeth and promotes overall dental health.
Uses Of Figs For Skin Health
Figs are amazing fruit heaped with the goodness of essential nutrients that work well for all types of skin. You can reap the benefit by eating them or using it as a DIY face mask.
Treats Warts
Anjeer is been used extensively in traditional medicine for treating various skin problems including eczema, vitiligo and psoriasis. The latex of the fig tree shows a remarkable antiwart property. The proteolytic activity of latex enzyme aids to remove warts on the body without causing any side effects.
Wrinkle Free Skin
The powerful antioxidant and anti collagenase properties of fig extract is beneficial for lessening wrinkles and makes the skin look supple. Fig extract is used widely in various skin formulations which have proven to reduce the skin melanin, water loss and sebum. Moreover, fig extract improves the skin hydration and works as a natural remedy for hyperpigmentation, acne and wrinkles.
Radiant Skin
The wealth of nutrients in anjeer like vitamin C, E and A and potent antioxidants is highly beneficial to nurture the skin and rejuvenate skin cells. Fresh anjeer is used in face masks.
For getting instant glow, make a paste of fresh figs, gently apply on your face and allow it to stay for 15 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water, this will make the skin glow naturally and look vibrant. Furthermore, the richness of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants maintain the skin pH balance and promotes blood circulation. Also Try: 3 Amazing DIY Fruit Face Packs To Revamp Your Skin
Figs For Hair Health
Figs are incredibly high on iron, potassium, magnesium and vitamins A and E which play a key role in promoting growth of stronger tresses. Figs extract are highly praised formulation used in the beauty industry for strengthening and improving hair moisture, conditions tangled mane, makes the hair frizz- free, look lustrous and strong.
Fig Recipe
Figs can be relished both fresh or dried, indulge in the natural sweetness of fresh figs when they are available in season, but dried figs are available all round the year and you can try some amazing mouth enticing recipes with dried figs like jam, smoothies, milkshake, ladoos and many more. Here we bring you two delectable dried fig recipes. Also Read: Stay Healthy With Dried Fruits, Health Bars
Anjeer Halwa
1 cup dried fig
½ cup blanched coarsely powder almonds
½ cup coarsely powdered cashew nuts
2-3 tbsp ghee
4 tsp sugar
¼ tsp cardamom powder
For Garnish
1 tbsp mixed nuts
Method
Boil water in pan add figs and allow it cook until soft and strain it.
In a mixer make a paste of boiled figs into puree and keep it aside.
In a pan add ghee, almonds, cashew powder and sauté well for 5 minutes, then add fig puree, sugar, little water and cook well for 5 minutes stirring continuously.
Add cardamom powder and stir well until ghee leaves the side.
Serve hot garnished with mixed nuts.
