Fresh Figs Health Benefits: Farmers Market, Paris, France
Fresh figs are a sweet fruit with a unique texture that wakes up your taste buds at every bite. Fresh figs are also a great partner to your health.
You can receive fresh figs health benefits all summer in the US where fresh figs are typically available June thru September. In Europe, fresh figs are in farmers markets a bit longer, generally throughout the fall. See how gorgeous these July figs look like? The picture was taken at a Parisian farmers market; and although France produces a good amount of figs (in the South of France — “le midi”), these fresh figs actually come from the southeastern part of Spain near the Mediterranean shore.
Fresh Figs: Health Benefits
To ripe fresh figs health benefits, simply enjoy them just as they are (luscious and soft) or serve them with honey by making a honey baked fig dessert (figues au miel). For more details about fresh figs health benefits, check below for our top 4 reasons to eat fresh figs. Enjoy and bon appétit!
Fresh Figs: Health Benefits
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4 Reasons to Put Fresh Figs in Your Market Basket
- Fresh Figs Health Benefits: Reason #1 — Figs Help Control Blood Pressure
Figs are rich in nutrients including potassium, a key mineral responsible for balancing fluids and minerals in our body. With over 200 mg of potassium per serving (232 mg for 2 medium figs or about 100 g), fresh figs are considered a high-potassium fruit. In contrast, a small apple contains 159 mg of potassium and 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries 63 mg of potassium. So fresh figs help naturally boost potassium intake which can help minimize the effects of sodium on blood pressure.
- Fresh Figs Health Benefits: Reason #2 — Figs Promote Healthy Bone Density
Figs are rich in calcium, an important nutrient to develop and maintain strong bones. Fresh figs contain 35 mg of calcium per 100g which compare to other fruits is fairly high. For example, strawberries offer less than half than amount with 16 mg per 100g.
- Fresh Figs Health Benefits: Reason #3 — Figs Help with Digestive Health
Like prunes, fresh figs have a high content of fibers so they are a big help to our digestive system (e.g. constipation, regularity). Indeed, a serving of figs (about 2) contains about 3 g of fiber which contributes to better digestive health. It is important to eat them riped (soft and tender) however so they are easier to digest.
- Fresh Figs Health Benefits: Reason #4 — Figs Help with Weight Management
Figs compare to other fruits as far as the level of calories — it counts 74 kcal per 100 g (2 medium figs) but thanks to its high fiber content, it is very satisfying and makes you fell less hungry during the day. Dried figs are also delicious and available year-round but keep in mind that for an equivalent quantity (i.e 100g), the calorie intake almost quadruples to reach 249 kcal for 100g. The bottom line is that fresh figs are a great nutritious, sweet, and satisfying dessert that can help us maintain a healthy weight — good for your health of course but your spirit as well!