Figs For Good Health

When thinking of figs, the first thing that comes to mind are fig newtons, those little cakey cookies with some mashed up, sugary fig stuff inside. But unless you buy the healthy kind, they are full of sugar and fat, and since they are processed you aren't getting the full benefit of eating them fresh or dried.  And who knew there were so  many benefits of eating figs.

Figs are the fruit of the Ficus carica tree, which is part of the mulberry family. You can eat them dried year-round, or fresh during the season- approximately June through September. The healthful benefits come from the fact that they are high in alkaline (which can help lower acid levels in the body), magnesium, manganese, calcium, potassium, phenol antioxidants, iron, pectin, Vitamin B-6, omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Aside from the  benefits in the chart above, the alkaline can help lower acid levels, and figs can help lower triglycerides, boost energy and brain power, and help with inflammation. They're also beneficial in protecting against postmenopausal breast cancer, and protecting against macular degeneration. They are also good for the skin.  Apparently, if you want help with acne, mash two ripe figs, and slather on your face. Leave on for 15 minutes.

For more info on figs, check out whfoods.com