As the northern half of the country grapples with a brutal bout of the winter cold wave, people are turning to nutrient-rich seasonal foods that are packed with fats, carbohydrates, and protein. These foods, which include hearty meats, wholesome gravies, and fresh fruits and vegetables, not only help generate warmth within one’s body but they also help ward off seasonal flus and allergies. Thus, many of them have been dubbed as “winter superfoods.” One of these winter superfoods are figs or anjeer, as they are fondly referred to in India.
Why are figs so popular among fitness enthusiasts? For starters, they are rich in a host of minerals, namely potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, they comprise antioxidants, including Vitamin A and Vitamin L, both of which shield the body against tissue damage, helping maintain one’s overall health. It is also believed that figs, both the fresh and dry varieties, are a potent source of iron, which is a mineral that is instrumental in the growth of women. And this is just scratching the surface!
Take a look at the health benefits of eating the distinctive purple-coloured figs dry fruit.
Keeps the Chills Away
As already touched on, figs are teeming with a plethora of minerals and nutrients. These include phosphorus, copper, and Vitamin B6, among others, all of which generate warmth and keep the winter chills at bay. That’s why it is essential to make figs are part of one’s diet during winter. Fresh figs can be consumed in salads or desserts, while dried figs can be eaten in the form of dry fruits with a sprinkle of honey.
Aids in Digestion
Figs are loaded with high levels of soluble fibre which is a highly effective digestive. This aspect of figs also assists one in combatting conditions like constipation. Additionally, the fibre content within figs also helps keep one’s cholesterol levels in check, thus mitigating the threat of cardiovascular ailments, such as heart disease. These health benefits of figs paired with their capacity to produce warmth within the body make it an ideal winter food ingredient.
Boosts Bone Health
Figs are a powerful source of mineral calcium, which is a requisite for the maintenance and sustenance of one’s bone health. It is especially of crucial importance that one’s bones remain strong and sturdy during the winter months to deal with the biting cold weather. In this way, eating figs during winter strengthens one’s bones. Generally, it is a good practice to continue eating figs throughout the year as well as one’s bones should always be healthy and in a good condition.
Serves as a Potential Cancer Antidote
Certain substances known as “free radicals” are commonly held responsible for the development of terminal conditions, such as cancer as well as inflammatory illnesses. Figs can be effective fighters here are they are replete with antioxidants that help safeguard the body against free radicals. Thus, in addition to being a winter balm and superfood, figs are also responsible for promoting a healthy, holistic, and fulfilling lifestyle at large.
Helps Manage High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure results from uneven levels of potassium within the body. Figs are natural sources of potassium, therefore consuming them is highly beneficial for high blood pressure patients as the introduction of the potassium from the figs could help regulate their blood pressure. Figs should be consumed even more extensively during winter as people tend to eat more fatty foods around this time of the year, which could potentially shoot up their blood pressure levels.
Assists in Weight Management
Figs are a big hit among dieticians and nutritionists as they are packed with healthy fibres and natural minerals, all of which help manage weight. That’s why figs are typically fixtures in diet plans and regimes; when taken in proper prescribed doses, they can lead to weight loss in a healthy and controlled manner and elevate one’s overall fitness levels. Fitness and exercise are of utmost importance, particularly during winter, when one tends to feel lazy and lethargic due to the chilly weather.