Nutrition
Figs not only taste sweet and good, they are good for you. They are described as 'nutrient rich' and nature's sweet tasting 'powerhouse'.
Figs are a convenient and easy fruit to eat. They are absolutely delicious in flavour and succulent in texture. They can be prepared and eaten in a variety of ways for any meal of the day. Importantly figs have considerable health benefits that make them an essential part of a daily diet. They contain no fat, no cholesterol and no gluten. At the same time figs are high in natural sugars, essential minerals and soluble fibre. A fig has more fibre than any other fruit.
Each 100g of fresh fig consists of approximately 80 calories and is rich in minerals including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and copper and are a good source of antioxidant vitamins A, E and K that contribute to health and wellness.
Fibre promotes a healthy digestive system and also has a positive effect on the heart and cholesterol levels. Fibre rich diets are also recognised as having a positive impact on weight management.
Calcium, potassium and manganese are important for aiding in bone density.
Potassium is also known to support the control of blood pressure and manganese also maintains the collagen integrity of the skin. In addition, the fig has copper, iron, and vitamin B.
The Fig Leaf
Importantly the leaves contain anti-diabetic properties and may lower the need for insulin. In addition they lower triglyceride levels in the body which is helpful in cases of high cholesterol.
The fig leaf is edible and can be wrapped around a fig or other foods for baking or grilling. No special treatment is required but boiling them to soften them up beforehand helps make them more pliable.
Fig & Feta wrapped in fig leaves and drizzled with warm honey
Fresh or dried fig leaves can also be used as a refreshing brew or tea. Just tear up the leaf and pour boiling water over it into the pot for tea.
