Figs are typical fruits of this season, extremely sweet with crunchy and edible seeds inside. There are several varieties that differ in color and texture. Their common characteristics are the gem shape, an intense color and a sweet scent. Figs, unlike what one might think, have few calories: 100 grams of fresh figs, in fact, provide only about 70. They are also rich in minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, selenium and zinc. They are a good source of antioxidant vitamins A and K and contain natural sugars and dietary fiber. Their benefits for our health, therefore, are many. However, we must ask ourselves how many figs can be eaten per day without incurring this side effect.
The health benefits of figs
Figs are excellent for the well-being of our body:
- they are great as part of a weight control diet. The richness of dietary fiber in figs, in fact, keeps you satisfied, curbs appetite and cravings;
- regulate blood pressure. Figs, thanks to potassium, are the best fruit to add to a diet for hypertension;
- excellent source of calcium for stronger bones. Calcium and potassium work together to improve bone density, which in turn can prevent conditions such as osteoporosis;
- valuable for managing diabetes. One of the first therapies to stabilize blood glucose occurs through the inclusion of specific foods in the diet. Because they are high in fiber, figs help stabilize blood sugar levels.
They are great as part of a weight control diet. The richness of dietary fiber in figs, in fact, keeps you satiated, curbs appetite and cravings.
They regulate blood pressure. Figs, thanks to the potassium, are a great fruit to add to a diet for hypertension.
They are an excellent source of calcium for stronger bones. Calcium and potassium work together to improve bone density, which in turn can prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.
How many figs can you eat per day without this side effect
Figs, being rich in fiber, prevent constipation and are considered one of the best fruits to replenish and soothe the intestine. However, figs should be enjoyed in moderation as eating too much figs could have an excessively laxative effect. The advice, in fact, is to eat a maximum of 4 figs per day.
Figs are also excellent dried, and thus available all year round. The latter are obtained thanks to a process of dehydration of the fruit. The amount of calories, however, is much higher than fresh fruits, having about 250 calories per 100 grams of fruit. For this reason it is advisable not to consume more than 2 dried figs per day.