Figs may still be rarely recognized and not widely consumed by the people of Indonesia. In fact, the benefits of figs are no less great than other fruits. This fruit is known to be beneficial for health, among others, to control blood sugar and prevent cancer.
Figs or figs (Ficus carica) has a sweet taste. At first glance, this fruit looks similar to a pomegranate. However, the skin of the fruit is purple or green, while the flesh is red. Fruit originating from the middle east is quite commonly consumed in Europe and America.
Nutrients Contained in Figs
Figs are known as one type of fruit with high nutritional content. In 100 grams of figs, there are around 75 calories and various nutrients, such as:
- 20 grams of carbohydrates
- 3 grams of fiber
- 0.9 grams of protein
- 16 grams of sugar
- 35 milligrams of calcium
- 0.4 milligrams of iron
- 230 milligrams of potassium
- 17–20 milligrams of magnesium
- 15 milligrams of phosphorus
- 7 micrograms of vitamin A
- 2 milligrams of vitamin C
Not only that, figs also contain B vitamins, folate, vitamin E, vitamin K, choline, and selenium, although the amounts are small. This fruit also contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, quercetin, and phenolic acids.
4 Benefits of Figs for Health
Thanks to their high nutritional and antioxidant content, figs have many health benefits, including:
1. Smooth the digestive tract
Figs have long been used as a traditional medicine to treat digestive problems, such as constipation. The fiber and water content in figs are known to be good for softening stools and stimulating bowel movements. Figs are also known to contain prebiotics.
According to research, consuming 1-2 servings of figs every day for 8 weeks has been shown to be able to overcome complaints of constipation.
Not only smooth bowel movements, eating figs every day is also thought to be able to relieve symptoms of digestive disorders, such as: irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, and bloating.
2. Maintain a healthy heart and blood vessels
Another benefit of figs is that it reduces the risk of heart disease. This is because figs can lower blood pressure and keep it stable. In addition, this fruit can also increase the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) and reduce the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL).
Thanks to these benefits, figs are good for consumption to prevent the formation of blockages in blood vessels due to cholesterol buildup (atherosclerosis).
3. Increase bone strength
Figs contain calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients are known to be beneficial for maintaining bone health and strength. If consumed along with foods high in calcium and vitamin D, figs are good for preventing bone loss or osteoporosis.
4. Prevent cancer
Figs are a good source of antioxidants. This substance is known to reduce the damage to cells and body tissues caused by free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. Research in the laboratory also shows that extracts of leaves and figs can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Things to Pay Attention to Before Consuming Figs
Although good for health, figs are not recommended to be consumed in excess. Figs, especially dried ones, are high in sugar, so they can raise blood sugar levels temporarily.
In addition, figs can also cause side effects, such as diarrhea, have the potential to cause allergic reactions, and affect the performance of certain drugs, such as diabetes medications.
You can consume figs regularly or add them to your daily diet. However, avoid consuming figs in excess, especially if you have certain diseases, such as diabetes.
Therefore, if you have certain medical conditions, consult your doctor first before consuming figs. The doctor will determine the right dose of figs consumption according to your condition.