Figs and their beneficial properties. Composition of the wine berry fruit. Contraindications and side effects

Figs grow in warm, dry climates around the world. It is eaten fresh or dried.

Sweet fruits contain a lot of sugar. In Mediterranean countries, figs are so popular that they are called "poor man's food."

Figs have been used to treat ailments for thousands of years. It contains many vitamins and minerals.

Composition and calorie content of figs

Figs are rich in fiber, which is good for digestion and prevents blood clots.

Composition 100 gr. figs as a percentage of daily value:

The calorie content of figs is 74 kcal per 100 g.

For centuries, figs and their extracts have been used to combat constipation, bronchitis, disorders, wounds and warts.

For muscles

Figs contain magnesium, which is important during physical activity. It is involved in the production of energy during muscle contractions. During intense exercise, magnesium requirements increase by 10-20%.

For the heart and blood vessels

Figs relieve stress on the walls of veins.

Thanks to magnesium and potassium, figs help keep blood pressure normal. The element removes sodium from the body through urine.

For the nerves

The beneficial properties of figs protect nerve cells from destruction and age-related death.

Magnesium in figs prevents migraines, helps fight depression, insomnia and improves mood.

For the gastrointestinal tract

Doctors advise adding figs to the diet of people suffering from chronic constipation.

For the pancreas

The leaves of fig trees are valuable for health due to their antioxidant properties. Taking fig leaf extract reduces blood sugar levels.

Figs improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

For the reproductive system

Figs are good for women because they contain magnesium and vitamin B6. They reduce the manifestation of premenstrual syndrome, which occurs 1-2 weeks before menstruation. This manifests itself in the form of mood swings, weight gain, food cravings, fatigue, irritability, chest pain and digestive problems.

For skin

Fig leaves prevent the development of skin cancer. Creams with fig extract reduce facial wrinkles thanks to antioxidants. They can be used for hyperpigmentation, acne and freckles.

For immunity

Figs contain antioxidants that prevent aging and cancer. The fruit relieves inflammation in all organs.

Beneficial properties of dried figs

Dried figs contains 19% of the daily value of potassium, which regulates blood pressure. By regularly consuming dried fruit, you will protect yourself from the development of hypertension.

The fruit contains a lot of fiber, which protects against overeating. If you want to lose weight, replace sweets in your diet with dried figs.

Dried figs are rich in iron. Women aged 19 to 50 years should receive 18 mg. iron per day, and over 51 years - 8 mg. A glass of dried figs contains 3 mg. gland. If the body lacks an element, you become vulnerable to infections and constantly feel weak.

Harm and contraindications of figs

Contraindications to consuming figs:

How to choose figs

Figs are sold in grocery stores and markets, they are supplied all year round. It is advisable to eat the fruit from mid-June to mid-October - this way the benefits from it will be maximum. Choose figs that are richly colored.

How to store figs

Fresh figs It is best to eat immediately after picking from the tree. In the refrigerator, its shelf life will increase by a couple of days. After purchasing figs, immediately remove them from the packaging.

Jams and confitures are made from figs or dried. You can freeze figs within 12 hours of harvesting to prolong their freshness.

Drying the fruit is the easiest way to preserve fig fruits. Traditional method Sun drying produces products of varying quality. Drying the fruit in special "dryers" ensures that you get healthy dried figs. In most commercial growing areas, figs are picked as they fall and placed on trays to dry.

There's a lot in figs useful compounds, so it can be used as a healthy alternative to sweets.

Not many people know that figs belong to the category of flowers, and not fruits or berries, as everyone is accustomed to believe. The ancient cultivated plant is called fig or fig. Figs are consumed in various forms, including fresh, dried, dried form. On its basis they prepare at least healthy jam, as well as decoctions and infusions. For these and other reasons, people are interested in information that affects useful and harmful qualities fruits Let's talk about them in order.

Composition, application and properties of figs

The value of figs is great, but the benefits must be considered from the point of view of the elements that are present in the composition.

The inflorescences contain a lot of protein, beta-carotene, retinol, vitamin PP, ascorbic acid, B vitamins, minerals. Of the latter, copper, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium and others take pride of place.
Figs are not deprived of coumarin, organic acids, and carbohydrates (presented in the form of easily digestible glucose and fructose). Figs are in second place after nuts in terms of potassium content. This mineral compound is necessary for the heart muscle and the entire circulatory system.
Figs are used by traditional healers for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for vitiligo, asthma, anemia (iron deficiency anemia), cough, fever, and tachycardia. They also treat neoplasms in the kidney cavity and increased liver volume.
Diuretic properties encourage people to eat figs to relieve swelling and fluid accumulation in tissues. The laxative effect helps with constipation and stool upset. Fig leaves are used in the form of lotions to treat large abrasions, wounds, and skin lesions.
Incoming mineral compounds support arterial pressure and reduce its surges, tone the heartbeat, and eliminate signs of arrhythmia. All this becomes possible thanks to the inclusion of potassium and magnesium.
Interestingly, figs have 2.5 times more iron than apples. Therefore, figs are used in case of suspected anemia and for the treatment of an existing disease.
The product contains nicotinic acid, which is considered an excellent means of thinning the blood and improving its circulation. Thanks to this, the risk of blood clots is reduced, the blood channels are cleared of cholesterol, and stroke, heart attack, thrombophlebitis and other pathologies are prevented.
Figs are extremely high in fiber and other dietary fibers. They are necessary for the functioning of the digestive system, kidneys, and liver. Systematic intake of figs leads to the fact that the body is comprehensively cleansed of slagging, toxic substances, and poisons of a different nature. Fig is necessary for the treatment and prevention of constipation.
Vitamin E, also called tocopherol, has antioxidant properties. This substance warns negative impact free radicals on healthy cells, resulting in the prevention and treatment of oncology.
During colds, figs are also necessary. A decoction based on it and fresh plant helps get rid of mucus in respiratory tract, helps reduce temperature, accelerates sweating. Glucose and fructose, which are found in figs, help to recover faster after surgery or a protracted illness.
Fruits accumulate ascorbic acid in a decent amount. Vitamin C is necessary for the overall strengthening of the immune system; it supports the action of tocopherol and retinol. Teas, decoctions, and infusions are prepared from figs, which help effectively cope with sore throats and flu.
It contains a lot of calcium and phosphorus; in combination, these mineral compounds are necessary for compacting bone tissue, teeth, nail plates, and hair follicles. The accumulation of laxative substances leads to a comprehensive cleansing of the kidneys from small tumors.

Dried figs contain many substances that are also found in fresh figs. But the volume of some incoming elements after heat treatment increases significantly. This list includes natural sugars that the brain needs to function properly.
In addition, dried figs have a laxative effect, due to which even the most complex congestion, toxic substances, and heavy metal salts leave the body. This type of fig improves digestion much better than fresh ones.
Compotes, infusions, and teas are prepared based on the fruits. Such drinks are consumed during a seasonal epidemic of influenza, ARVI, and sore throat to increase immunity. Also, a decoction of dried figs relieves fever and removes mucus from the cavity of the respiratory system.
After heat treatment, the accumulation of iron increases significantly, which makes figs even more beneficial. It prevents iron deficiency anemia, improves blood composition and circulation.
Used as an additional remedy for tachycardia, bronchial asthma, female gynecological diseases, urolithiasis(for formations up to 5 mm in size.).
Dried figs contain much more B vitamins; they are necessary for the human nervous system, as they control the psycho-emotional environment. Decoctions of dried or sun-dried figs help with insomnia, elevate mood, and stimulate brain neurons.
Figs in any form, whether fresh or dried, are considered a panacea for many male diseases. Thus, the fetus prevents inflammation of the prostate gland, prostatitis, and impotence.

Benefits of figs for women

For many years, the female half of the population has been happily consuming figs to maintain health and beauty in particular. The composition contains antioxidants that prolong the youth of tissues. This becomes possible due to the removal of toxins and waste.
The composition contains calcium, which strengthens the nail plate, hair, and skin. Fig extract is added to all kinds of skin care products. cosmetical tools(bath foams, salts, body creams and lotions, tonics, etc.) and perfume.
At skin diseases The pulp of the fresh fruit can be used to wipe off rashes, acne, lichen, eczema, psoriasis. Lotions made from pureed fig mass are also effective.
Girls during menstruation often suffer from a decrease in hemoglobin, because most of the iron is washed out in the blood. Figs restore the deficiency of this element, eliminate apathy and emotional outbursts.

Almost everyone knows that taking medications while pregnant is not the best practice. Therefore, it is recommended to start eating figs before the off-season. The unique composition saturates the body with useful enzymes and strengthens it.
Figs easily fight vitamin deficiency, anemia and colds. Therefore, it is not at all necessary to resort to the help of harmful drugs. The fruit does not reflect negatively on the child. Experts advise including raw materials in your daily diet.
Many representatives of the fairer sex suffer from common problems during pregnancy. The most common symptoms are indigestion and constipation. To cope with troubles, it is recommended to eat only 3 fruits a day. Digestive processes will be fully restored.

Figs and milk for cough

IN folk medicine fig is often used to relieve coughs various types. Figs perfectly remove mucus from the bronchi, relieve inflammation in the throat, and fight elevated temperature bodies. For greater effectiveness, it is better to take the raw material with milk.
For 250 ml. liquid, take 3 dried fruits. Boil the ingredients after boiling for 3 minutes. Remove the container from the heat and wait for it to cool to an acceptable temperature. You can mix it to taste a large number of honey. Take this remedy 3 times a day until recovery.

Previously, we looked at the enormous benefits of fruit for people. Unfortunately, few people know that figs are good for nutrition. Due to the valuable composition, the fruits can be a complete snack. Organism long time will not feel hungry.
It is allowed to replace one or two meals a day with fresh figs. As a result of such a diet, you can lose a significant amount of unwanted pounds. In addition, the body will not experience a feeling of discomfort.
Among other things, a person receives tangible benefits in the form of saturation with valuable enzymes. Figs perfectly cleanse tissues of slagging, toxic substances and high cholesterol. The result is a gentle and noticeable weight loss.

Figs contraindications

Fig has a number of positive qualities. If you decide to improve your health, you should consider some contraindications. Otherwise, the person’s general condition may worsen. Fruits are contraindicated for pancreatitis, gastritis, diabetes and gout.
You should not eat figs if you are prone to obesity. You can also consult with a nutritionist and set an individual daily norm. You should not lean on raw materials before an important event. Fig has a good laxative effect.

Once you decide to purchase fresh fruits, you should approach the process carefully. Under no circumstances choose damaged specimens; in addition to the lack of benefit, you may encounter a number of additional health problems.
Smokva refers to perishable products, so in the hot season it is not stored for a long time. With dried figs things are different. If you did not prepare the fruit yourself before drying, then there is a risk that the fig was spoiled.
As for fresh figs, you should choose fruits that have pleasant aroma. The shell should be elastic to the touch and not have any damage. The staleness of the fruit is indicated by a fermented sour smell, increased softness of the fruit and sticky peel.
Often, suppliers collect the fruits while they are still unripe; this simple move allows you to extend the shelf life of the figs. As a rule, a fig in this form does not have characteristic odor. The fruits appear green with a hard shell. Keep in mind that unripe figs do not yet have all the beneficial qualities.
You should not always pay attention to the color; depending on the variety, the shell may have a different shade. Therefore, there is no need to think that the fruits are not ripe, relying solely on appearance. Figs different varieties may have a yellow, dark blue and purple tint. It is the latter that is most often found on the market.

Rules for storing figs

You should not buy a large number of figs at a time to eat at fresh. Otherwise, the figs will spoil in just a few days, even in the refrigerator. Eat the treat immediately after arriving home.
If you really can’t wait, then you can afford to eat a few fruits right at the market. Keep in mind that, as a last resort, you should eat figs within 3 days after purchase. It is also a good idea to wrap each fruit in a dry napkin. A little trick will keep the fruit fresh longer. The paper will absorb excess moisture.
It is allowed to store fresh figs in a dry jar. It is also necessary to remove all moisture from the fruit in advance. Do not try to cover the container with a lid. Fruits must be ventilated. After this, place the figs in the refrigerator for storage. Make sure that there are no foreign odors in the chamber. Figs absorb aromas well.

Smokva has unique healing qualities. The rich composition allows you to avoid the formation of a number of ailments. With the help of raw materials you can strengthen well immune system and avoid vitamin deficiency. In addition, figs effectively cope with colds. If you suspect the presence of contraindications in the form of chronic diseases, get tested before eating the product.

Video: the benefits and harms of figs for the body

Figs(aka fig tree, aka fig tree, aka wineberry) is a deciduous subtropical tree of the Mulberry family. Its historical homeland is Asia Minor, but now figs are distributed throughout the Mediterranean. In our country, it is cultivated on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory and in the Crimea. Figs are considered one of the most ancient cultivated plants. Its fruits are of great value - sweet juicy fruits with many seeds and nuts.

Rich chemical composition of fresh and dried fruits, calorie content

They must be consumed within 6 hours after collection, otherwise the figs will spoil. That is why, even in ancient times, people learned to dry figs.

Dried figs are an extremely nutritious product. No wonder the soldiers of Alexander the Great stocked up on it when preparing to go on a campaign.

There are a lot of sugars in figs. The fruits of some varieties can contain up to 70% glucose and fructose.

Thus, some vitamins are lost when figs are dried (C, B5), while the content of others, on the contrary, increases.

Mineral substances found in fig fruits include:

sodium;
potassium;
calcium;
magnesium;
iron;
phosphorus.

In terms of the amount of useful potassium, figs are the champion and are second only to nuts.

For the male body

Defeats vascular system, hypertension and heart disease are common causes of erectile dysfunction.

Figs also help prevent early heart attacks and strokes in men. It also quickly restores mental and physical strength during strenuous work.

For women's health

Fig fruits solve a serious vascular problem familiar to many women - varicose veins.

For swelling of the legs and cramps in the calf muscles, which often affect lovers of high heels, dried figs relieve unpleasant symptoms. This occurs by replenishing the deficiency of potassium, calcium and magnesium.

The ability of figs to improve the regeneration of skin cells is useful for women who care about their appearance. Fresh fruits can be used in dietary nutrition for weight loss and detoxification of the body.

Can children eat it?

In the absence of allergies, figs can be safely given to children. This valuable product will improve the digestion and appetite of babies, will become useful source energy.

Figs are rich in folic acid, which children need for the normal development of the immune, nervous and circulatory systems.

To cover daily requirement In this “vitamin of joy” it is enough to give your child a few pieces of dried figs a day.

Useful during pregnancy and lactation

Pregnant women can consume figs if there are no individual contraindications. The vitamin and mineral complex contained in these fruits will provide the expectant mother’s body with everything necessary for the formation of the fetus.

A good combination of iron and folic acid will prevent the development of anemia during pregnancy. A large amount of fiber normalizes digestion.

Figs have the ability to stimulate lactation, so they can be used during breastfeeding.

In this case, caution and moderation should be observed: the consumption of figs by a nursing mother large quantities may cause colic and bloating in the baby.

Medicinal properties of fruit and leaves

Over the millennia of using fig fruits, traditional medicine has accumulated great knowledge about its healing properties. Avicenna also mentioned him in his treatises.

To this day, figs are used by naturopaths to treat many diseases:

bronchitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, pneumonia (to relieve cough);
pharyngitis, sore throat (for gargling and reducing temperature);
constipation (to stimulate intestinal motility);
depression (to increase tone);
anemia (to increase hemoglobin levels);
hypertension (to relieve vasospasm and as a diuretic);
inflammation genitourinary system(as a diuretic);
thrombosis, thrombophlebitis (to thin the blood).

The already mentioned warriors of Alexander the Great used dry figs to prepare a wound-healing potion.

In addition to fruits, they are successfully used in folk medicine green leaves fig trees. They are used to treat abscesses, boils and eczema.

Fig leaves serve as raw materials for the production of the drug “Psoberan”, which is used to treat vitiligo.

Fig fruits are not equally beneficial for everyone; they can be harmful to some. People suffering from the following diseases should avoid using it:

hyperacidous gastritis and peptic ulcers;
diabetes;
gout;
pancreatitis;
inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Allergic reactions to figs are rare because figs contain very little essential oils. But for people prone to allergies, it is better to treat figs with caution and eat its fruits in minimal quantities.

Delicious homemade recipes

From the fruits of the fig tree at home you can prepare a lot of tasty and healthy drinks and treats.

Fig milkshake. For 300 ml of milk, take 4 washed dried fruit, and boil them in milk for several minutes. Transfer the figs to a blender, add 1 tbsp. l. honey and 4 tbsp. l. chopped walnuts.

Grind and beat everything, gradually adding milk.

Fig broth. Take 200 g dried apples, 6 dried figs and 6 prunes. Wash dried fruits and soak in warm water for an hour.

Drain in a colander, transfer to boiling water, and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and leave for an hour. Serve the drink with honey.

Fig compote for the winter. Wash fresh figs, remove stems and blanch for 5 minutes, then place the fruits in cold water. Place them in jars.

Cook required amount syrup at the rate of 300 g sugar and 3 g citric acid for 1 liter of water. Pour hot syrup over the figs, pasteurize at 85⁰C and roll up.

Fig jam. Fresh ripe fruits Wash thoroughly, cut off the stems and place in a container. Cover the figs with sugar. The weight ratio of fruits and sugar is 1:0.7. Cover the container and leave for 3 hours so that the figs release juice.

Place the container over low heat, bring to a boil, skim off the foam and cook for 5 minutes with constant stirring. Remove from heat, cover with a towel and let steep for 10 hours.

Then repeat the process again: boil, boil for 5 minutes and let stand for 10 hours.

At the final stage, boil the jam, simmer for 10 minutes, add lemon juice to taste and a little vanilla. Remove from heat, pour into sterilized jars and seal.

How much and how to eat?

Figs must be fresh and fully ripe - only in this case they will bring health benefits.

The color of the skin of “correct” ripe figs, depending on the variety, can be purple, burgundy, yellowish, etc. The pulp of fresh figs is tender, jelly-like, the smell is pleasant, without acid.

If a fig smells sour, there is no need to eat it - the fruit has gone bad.

Rules for eating fresh figs:

Before eating, the fruits are washed thoroughly but carefully;
It is not necessary to peel the skin; you can eat it with it;
if you don’t like the skin, cut the fig in half and eat only the pulp;
You can give figs to your child by scooping out the pulp with a teaspoon.

Before serving, cut the figs beautifully into slices, pour over yogurt, and sprinkle with nuts. Culinary use figs are not limited to desserts.

These fruits go well with meat, and you can use them for stuffing duck or turkey, for cooking Mediterranean salads with mozzarella, asparagus, sweet pepper, pomegranate, nuts.

Figs are a fruit that has many benefits. It is nutritious and healthy, has a number of medicinal properties, rarely causes allergies and has almost no contraindications.

Using figs in cooking allows you to diversify the menu and add a spicy oriental touch to it.

Figs are versatile folk remedy for the treatment of many diseases, including gastrointestinal tract. The health benefits of figs are incredibly varied. In particular, figs are great at high temperatures.

It is best to consume it not in raw or dried form, but as part of a decoction, which works effectively. The body is under the influence of figs and reduces body temperature, which will make its fruits universal remedy for the symptomatic treatment of colds, flu, intestinal diseases, liver diseases and other diseases accompanied by an increase in body temperature.

For other unpleasant conditions, fresh or dried figs in folk medicine also have the following properties:

For sore throat, a decoction of fig tree fruits can be used to gargle. You can also rinse your mouth for stomatitis in conjunction with drug treatment.
The fruits can be used as a diuretic, which is useful for the body in some types of poisoning and for lowering blood pressure.
Figs have benefits for the functioning of the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, provided there are no gastrointestinal diseases.
Due to the presence of potassium, the fruit is beneficial for the cardiovascular and nervous systems. This microelement is actively used in transport processes of the central nervous system. The presence of potassium in figs helps strengthen blood vessels, prevent hypertension and venous insufficiency.
Figs have a beneficial effect on circulatory system also because it resolves existing blood clots and thins the blood, which prevents new ones from forming.
For constipation, figs are necessary because they have a laxative effect.
The benefits of figs for women are undeniable, because they help lose weight.

It is known that Avicenna recommended consuming figs in the treatment of the heart and blood vessels. Due to the high content of iron, potassium, ficin, phosphorus and magnesium salts in fig fruits, this plant is a reliable remedy in the fight against anemia and for cleansing the walls of blood vessels from plaques. What diseases does figs treat?

Bronchitis. Four to five figs are ground until homogeneous mass and pour a glass of warmed milk. This recipe also helps with tracheitis, bronchiectasis and bronchitis.

Urolithiasis disease. Three to five figs are poured with a glass of boiling water and simmered over low heat for five minutes. The resulting mass is taken in small portions two hours after each meal. The medicine crushes stones and promotes their removal from the urinary tract and kidneys.

Fig decoction: Boil 2 tablespoons of dried figs in 1 glass of milk until softened. Take 100 g 2-3 times a day. This medicine is recommended for gastritis, for gargling, externally in the form of a poultice for acute inflammatory formation in the area of the periosteum or connective tissue, abscesses, boils.

Fig fruits are beneficial for both adults and children. If you need to get rid of boils and lichens, urticaria and ulcers, you need to apply fresh leaves. Recommended use fresh fruits weakened people who have suffered any illness.

Recipes with figs for diseases

Figs can be dried, and in this or fresh form they are useful for epilepsy. The juice of the fruit helps remove sand from the kidneys and heal wounds. You can get rid of warts and birthmarks by applying mashed unripe fruits to the skin.

The ash of fig wood is infused in water and lotions are made with this liquid for nerve inflammation. Fig leaves help with hardening of the eyelids and thickening of the membranes of the eyes.

The resulting milky juice from figs is used to treat the initial stage of cataracts and remove the wet veil. The vitamins and microelements contained in figs promote the production of serotonin, a substance that improves mood and improves well-being.

Folic acid is useful for pregnant women because it is involved in hematopoietic processes and supports the immune system. Figs are considered the fruit richest in phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, sodium and fiber.

Figs are a leader in the content of minerals, which are so necessary in the treatment and prevention of heart and vascular diseases. Calcium has a beneficial effect on bones and joints. Thanks to fiber, the body easily fights cholesterol and gets rid of toxins and waste. Prepared from fig fruits delicious jams, marshmallows, sweets, compotes, wine, vinegar.

Dried figs. In dried and dried form, the fruit has a high concentration of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and sugar. 100 grams of this valuable product contains three hundred and forty kilocalories, so it is a very nutritious fruit.

Dried figs are effective as an antipyretic and have a diaphoretic effect. Medicinal fruit acts as a laxative, and a miraculous decoction dried fruits figs in milk are used for whooping cough, dry cough, and swelling of the vocal cords.

Today you can buy dried fruits in any supermarket; you need to choose light yellow fruits. They will fill the body with energy, give strength, and lift your spirits. Figs are used as an antitumor agent; they are taken during irradiation and anemia.

Figs with milk for cough. In folk medicine, for coughing attacks during colds and whooping cough, a decoction of figs in milk is used. The course of treatment should be continued for 10–15 days, the drug will relieve cough and increase the body's resistance to respiratory diseases.

With the lid tightly closed, the mixture should be kept for 0.5 hours over low heat until the volume is reduced by about 1/3, then cover the pan to steam the figs and leave it until it cools completely: 3–4 hours is enough for the figs to give up all their beneficial features.

The medicine must be stored in a jar, tightly closed. nylon cover, in a refrigerator. You cannot prepare more than 0.5 liters of the drug; on the second day it will thicken and be a little viscous.

Figs (aka fig tree, aka fig tree, aka wineberry)- a deciduous subtropical tree of the Mulberry family. Its historical homeland is Asia Minor, but now figs are distributed throughout the Mediterranean.

In our country, it is cultivated on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory and in the Crimea. Figs are considered one of the most ancient cultivated plants.

Its fruits are of great value– sweet juicy fruits with many seeds and nuts.

Fresh figs are rarely found on store shelves. The fact is that the shelf life and transportability of these fruits leaves no room for improvement.

They must be consumed within 6 hours after collection., otherwise the figs will spoil. That is why, even in ancient times, people learned to dry figs.

Dried figs are an exceptionally nutritious product. No wonder the soldiers of Alexander the Great stocked up on it when preparing to go on a campaign.

The calorie content of figs per 100 g of dry fruit is 257 kcal. Of these, proteins account for 12.4 kcal, fats – 7.2 kcal, and carbohydrates – 231.6 kcal.

There are a lot of sugars in figs. The fruits of some varieties can contain up to 70% glucose and fructose.

The vitamin composition of figs varies– the content in fresh and dried fruits is different:

Thus, some vitamins are lost when figs are dried (C, B5), while the content of others, on the contrary, increases.

Mineral substances found in fig fruits include:

sodium;
potassium;
calcium;
magnesium;
iron;
phosphorus.

In terms of the amount of useful potassium, figs are the champion and are second only to nuts.

Unripe figs should not be eaten. They contain a very caustic milky juice. In the old days, this “milk” was used to remove warts and treat acne.

The “Live Healthy!” program will tell you how to choose figs, how long to store them, and what their beneficial properties are:

Benefits and beneficial properties of figs

Record potassium content makes figs a particularly valuable product for people suffering from heart and vascular diseases. Namely, vascular disorders cause a number of diseases in both men and women.

For the male body

Lesions of the vascular system, hypertension and heart disease often cause erectile dysfunction.

The benefits of figs for men were well known in the East in ancient times. To improve potency, golden figs were used with milk and saffron.

Figs help and for the prevention of early heart attacks and strokes in men. It also quickly restores mental and physical strength during strenuous work.

For women's health

Fig fruits solve a serious vascular problem familiar to many women - varicose veins.

For swelling of the legs and cramps of the calf muscles which often affects lovers of high heels, dried figs relieve unpleasant symptoms. This occurs by replenishing the deficiency of potassium, calcium and magnesium.

The ability of figs to improve the regeneration of skin cells is useful for women who care about their appearance. Fresh fruits can be used in dietary nutrition for weight loss and detoxification of the body.

Can children eat it?

In the absence of allergies, figs can be safely given to children. This valuable product improves digestion and appetite of babies, will become a useful source of energy.

Figs are rich in folic acid, necessary for children for the normal development of the immune, nervous and circulatory systems.

To cover the daily requirement for this “vitamin of joy”, it is enough to give your child a few dried figs a day.

Useful during pregnancy and lactation

Pregnant women can eat figs, if there are no individual contraindications. The vitamin and mineral complex contained in these fruits will provide the expectant mother’s body with everything necessary for the formation of the fetus.

Good combination of iron and folic acid will prevent the development of anemia during pregnancy. A large amount of fiber normalizes digestion.

However, if a woman is gaining a lot of weight, it is better to eat fresh figs, which are low in calories.

Figs have the ability to stimulate lactation, therefore can be used during breastfeeding.

In this case, caution and moderation should be taken: consumption of figs by a nursing mother in large quantities can cause colic and bloating in the child.

Medicinal properties of fruit and leaves

Over thousands of years of using fig fruits, traditional medicine has accumulated great knowledge about its healing properties. Avicenna also mentioned him in his treatises.

And to this day Figs are used by naturopaths to treat many diseases:

bronchitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, pneumonia (to relieve cough);
pharyngitis, sore throat (for gargling and reducing temperature);
constipation (to stimulate intestinal motility);
depression (to increase tone);
anemia (to increase hemoglobin levels);
hypertension (to relieve vasospasm and as a diuretic);
inflammation of the genitourinary system (as a diuretic);
thrombosis, thrombophlebitis (to thin the blood).

The already mentioned warriors of Alexander the Great used dry figs to prepare a wound-healing potion.

In addition to fruits in folk medicine green fig leaves have been successfully used. They are used to treat abscesses, boils and eczema.

Fig leaves serve as raw materials for the production of the drug "Psoberan", which is used to treat vitiligo.

Figs – from a hundred diseases:

Harm and contraindications

Fig fruits are not equally beneficial for everyone; they can be harmful to some. People should refrain from using it suffering from the following diseases:

hyperacidous gastritis and peptic ulcers;
diabetes;
gout;
pancreatitis;
inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Allergic reactions to figs are rare, since figs contain very little essential oils. But for people prone to allergies, it is better to treat figs with caution and eat its fruits in minimal quantities.

Delicious homemade recipes

You can prepare a lot of tasty and healthy drinks and delicacies from the fruits of the fig tree at home.

Fig milkshake. For 300 ml of milk, take 4 washed dried fruits and boil them in milk for several minutes. Transfer the figs to a blender, add 1 tbsp. l. honey and 4 tbsp. l. chopped walnuts.

Grind and beat everything, gradually adding milk.

Fig broth. Take 200 g of dried apples, 6 dried figs and 6 prunes. Wash dried fruits and soak in warm water for an hour.

Drain in a colander, transfer to boiling water, and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and leave for an hour. Serve the drink with honey.

Fig compote for the winter. Wash fresh figs, remove the stems and blanch for 5 minutes, then immerse the fruits in cold water. Place them in jars.

Boil the required amount of syrup at the rate of 300 g of sugar and 3 g of citric acid per 1 liter of water. Pour hot syrup over the figs, pasteurize at 85⁰C and roll up.

Figs baked with Camembert cheese:

Fig jam. Wash fresh ripe fruits thoroughly, cut off the stems and place in a container. Cover the figs with sugar. The weight ratio of fruits and sugar is 1:0.7. Cover the container and leave for 3 hours so that the figs release juice.

Place the container over low heat, bring to a boil, skim off the foam and cook for 5 minutes with constant stirring. Remove from heat, cover with a towel and let steep for 10 hours.

Then repeat the process again: boil, boil for 5 minutes and let stand for 10 hours.

At the final stage, boil the jam, simmer for 10 minutes, add lemon juice to taste and a little vanilla. Remove from heat, pour into sterilized jars and seal.

Warm milk with fig jam relieves coughs and sore throats.

How much and how to eat?

Figs must be fresh and fully ripe- only in this case will it bring health benefits.

The color of the skin of “correct” ripe figs, depending on the variety, can be purple, burgundy, yellowish, etc. The pulp of fresh figs is tender, jelly-like, the smell is pleasant, without acid.

If a fig smells sour, there is no need to eat it - the fruit has gone bad.

Rules for eating fresh figs:

Before eating, the fruits are washed thoroughly but carefully;
It is not necessary to peel the skin; you can eat it with it;
if you don’t like the skin, cut the fig in half and eat only the pulp;
You can give figs to your child by scooping out the pulp with a teaspoon.

Before serving, cut the figs beautifully into slices, pour over yogurt, and sprinkle with nuts. The culinary uses of figs are not limited to desserts.

These fruits go well with meat, and you can use them for stuffing duck or turkey, for preparing Mediterranean salads with mozzarella, asparagus, bell peppers, pomegranate, and nuts.

Figs are a fruit with many benefits.. It is nutritious and healthy, has a number of medicinal properties, rarely causes allergies and has almost no contraindications.

Using figs in cooking allows you to diversify the menu and add a spicy oriental touch to it.

One of the most healthy fruits is a fig (fig, wineberry, fig). This one is juicy sweet fruit contains a huge amount useful vitamins and minerals. To prevent the fruit from causing harm to the body, you need to choose the right fig, and also know medicinal properties figs and contraindications.

Beneficial properties of dried figs

Fig has a bright amazing taste. Green fig fruits are difficult to transport and store, so they are often sold dried. At the same time, the usefulness of such a product is not inferior fresh fruit. Many people are often interested in the question, what are dried figs - their benefits and harm to the body? This product can improve your mood.

Dried black fig fruit is a record holder for fiber content, so consuming this dried fruit improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and guarantees a long-lasting feeling of fullness. In addition, the benefit of dried figs lies in the content huge amount vitamins and microelements necessary for joints. Dried fruits have the following properties:

eliminate inflammatory processes;
help with constipation (photos of figs can often be found on laxatives);
are a preventative against colds;
normalize lung function;
protect the body from fatigue and stress;
are a good expectorant;
help with anemia;
due to the pectin content, they promote rapid wound healing;
remove toxins;
get rid of unpleasant odor from mouth;
have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the kidneys and genitourinary system;
affect the elasticity and firmness of the skin;
help reduce the risk of chronic diseases cardiovascular diseases;
prevent the occurrence of arterial hypertension.

Dried figs - calorie content

During drying of fruits, the ratio of components changes: the number of proteins increases by 5%, the carbohydrate content reaches 70%. The nutritional value figs is 49 kcal per 100 g of product. This is not enough for the body, so you can safely eat fresh figs without worrying about harm to your figure. The calorie content of dried figs is 4 times higher than in fresh product(per 100 g there are 214 kilocalories). Therefore, for those who want to support themselves in perfect shape, don't get too carried away dried fruit. Although you can’t eat a lot of it, because when dried, figs have a sugary taste.

Figs - composition

Dried figs are rich in vitamins and minerals that are needed for the smooth functioning of the body. The most important thing is what is interesting chemical composition figs - the presence of potassium. In terms of the content of this element, the fruit ranks second among products, second only to nuts. Dried figs contain little water and 70% calorific agent (sucrose). Dried figs can contain almost the same vitamin and mineral complex as fresh ones. The main components of dried fruit are:

vitamin PP;
vitamin A;
vitamin C;
vitamins B2, B1, B9;
potassium;
iron;
magnesium;
sodium;
calcium;
alimentary fiber;
organic acids;
starch;
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids;
phytosterol;
antioxidants;
fats;
proteins;
tannins.

What are the benefits of dried figs for women?

Eating fig tree fruits has great importance For female body. Scientists say that the beneficial properties of dried figs help women look good. Thanks to the high calcium content, you can forget about poor nail condition and hair loss. The healing substances contained in figs have a beneficial effect on health during menstruation. Fig helps to overcome emotional outbursts and relieve pain. In addition, the following beneficial properties of dried figs for women are highlighted:

due to the high content of folic acid, dried fruit is often prescribed when planning pregnancy;
eliminates the inflammatory process in diseases of the genital organs;
Regular use of figs at home helps reduce the risk of varicose veins;
favors the preservation of the placenta, without harm to the baby;
helps fight anemia.

Dried figs during pregnancy

Many women often wonder what are the benefits of dried figs during pregnancy? Dried fig tree fruit contains a large amount of vitamins and useful substances, necessary to the expectant mother. At the same time, you should eat this fruit correctly so as not to harm your child. In addition, pregnant women with diabetes should eat figs with caution, because dried fruit contains a lot of sugar. Benefits of dried figs during pregnancy:

helps relieve cough without using medicines;
maintains the required level of vitamins;
promotes weight loss;
improves blood condition;
helps to cope with colds faster;
eliminates digestive problems (disorders, constipation).

Dried figs for breastfeeding

During lactation, doctors can advise patients who are watching their figure to include fig tree fruits in their diet, which will become great addition to the diet. Regular use dried figs with breastfeeding normalizes stool, regulates salt balance in the body. In addition, new mothers who have difficulty defecating can eat this product instead of laxatives. natural product. Beneficial properties of figs for nursing women:

improves blood circulation,
increases vascular tone;
cleanses the body of toxins;
strengthens nervous system;
Regular consumption of fig tree fruits helps to avoid the development of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and hypertension;
forms the baby’s immune system;
improves milk quality;
eliminates swelling.

What are the benefits of dried figs for men?

Men are also interested in eating fig tree fruits, because the main benefit of dried figs is that they enhance male potency, prevents prostatitis and helps to forget about ailments associated with the genital organs. In addition, the benefits of dried figs for men are as follows:

accelerates blood circulation;
helps reduce belly fat;
improves reproductive health;
reduces cholesterol levels;
normalizes blood pressure;
prevents the development of colorectal cancer.

Figs - contraindications

Dried wine berries have almost no side effects; in rare cases, consuming them can harm the body. Due to the high calorie content, dried fruit should be consumed with caution if you are obese or obese. Dried figs are a strong laxative, so you should not eat the fruit before a long trip or an important meeting. As a rule, figs have the following contraindications:

diabetes;
acute gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis, colitis);
pancreatitis;
inflammation of the stomach;
gout.