Our 27 Favorite Fig Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Is it OK to eat figs everyday? ›

You can enjoy figs in a variety of ways, but due to their high sugar content, you should only eat dried figs in moderation or use them as an occasional home treatment for constipation. To reap the benefits of figs, you can buy fresh figs, dried figs, fig leaves, or fig leaf tea to add to your diet.

It's worth noting that you'll often see figs listed as a “top pick” or “best fruit” for people with diabetes because of their low to moderate glycemic index. This means that they should not raise blood sugars as rapidly as high glycemic index foods.

Figs contain antioxidants and fiber that may support liver health by aiding digestion and reducing oxidative stress. However, individuals with liver conditions should consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to their specific health needs and circ*mstances.

Figs are rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants and provide fiber and smaller amounts of a variety of minerals. They may also support digestive, gut, and menstrual health, improve inflammatory conditions, aid weight management, and offer cancer protection.

However, moderation is the key as dried figs are high on calories. It is recommended to limit portion size to about 2-3 figs per day. Moreover, dried figs serve as a healthy snack for gaining weight.

Since fresh figs are perishable, they need to be kept in the refrigerator, between 32ºF-36ºF. Like strawberries, which can get moldy if exposed to too much moisture, it's generally not recommended that you wash figs as soon as you bring them home from the market.

If someone is especially allergic to birch pollen, they are highly vulnerable to developing a fig allergy. Even the latex found in the fig trees has been said to cause allergic reactions. Because of their higher amounts of carbs and sugars, people with diabetes are recommended not to consume dry figs.

Figs are delectably sweet, and there's a reason for that: lots of natural sugar. Six dried figs have about 24 grams. That's offset by a reasonable amount of fiber, Gardner said – about 5 grams, or more that 17% of the recommended daily value. That fiber helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.

Goyal said that fresh figs, being low in sugar and calorie, can be a healthy snack for diabetics with appropriate portion control. “They are low in glycemic index and do not cause blood sugar spikes,” she said.

Researchers have noted the fig's liver-protecting and glucose-lowering effects. Research on this subject is very limited. However, one small study from 1998 found that in eight participants, there was a decrease in after-meal glucose levels when they took fig leaf extracts.

Is figs good for kidneys? ›

They are high in vitamins A, B, C, potassium, dietary fiber, magnesium, and high in calcium so they help develop strong bones, (making it an excellent source of calcium for those who are lactose intolerant). Figs are very cleansing to the kidneys and remove poisons from them.

Prunes, dates, raisins, figs, and apricots are common dried fruits high in sugar and potassium. These are added to remove moisture which stiffens and preserves the fruits. As a result, doctors and dietitians recommend regulating said foods if you have kidney disease and diabetes.

Other fruits, like pineapple and papaya, taste great and contain bromelain, a group of enzymes that reduce pain and swelling in joints. Dried dates, plums, and figs are also great foods to relieve joint pain.

Anjeer, also known as figs, is not only a delicious and nutritious fruit but also offers several benefits for your hair health. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, Anjeer can contribute to stronger, shinier, and healthier hair.

Figs contain no fat and no cholesterol. Plus, there is very low sodium and a balanced amount of fiber, carbohydrates and sugar. Eating overnight soaked figs on a regular basis can provide numerous health benefits. These can also be eaten directly, however, soaking in water will provide you with better health benefits.

When it comes to raw fruit, you can easily have 2-3 figs in a day. If you are having dried figs, stick to 3 figs and do not have them without soaking overnight. Our body can absorb the nutrients and digest some dried fruits and nuts in a better way when they are soaked well.

The General Guideline: On average, 2-4 figs per day can be a sweet spot for most people, balancing taste and nutritional benefits. Your Personal Needs: Your individual needs, health condition, and lifestyle can affect the ideal amount of figs for you. Always listen to your body!

Figs contain a lot of fibre, and eating too much fibre may lead to indigestion and constipation. Eating figs in excess may damage the intestines and liver. Regular intake of figs in large quantities along with its seeds can possibly cause bloating and upset stomach.

Figs Aid Heart Health

Figs are a natural way to maintain normal blood pressure, blood fat levels, and cholesterol, decreasing your risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. Consider adding figs to your diet to protect your heart and stabilize your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.