My Current Obsession = Dried Figs
I have a distinct obsession with dried figs. It's serious. There are no support groups for this problem. I've checked.
But, it just so happens that they're phenomenal tasting and SO good for you. I crave chocolate and sugar after a meal and since having figs around, they've basically taken that craving over completely. I'm very serious about having these in your home when you need a sweet something. It's been a huge deal in my life.
Why are dried figs awesome for you?
Natural Laxative: stock FULL of fiber
Figs are often recommended to nourish and tone the intestines and act as a natural laxative because of their high fiber content. Many of us sodium (salt) found in processed foods. This leads to high blood pressure (hypertension). Figs naturally increase potassium, balancing out the sodium intake and therefore help lower blood pressure.
Antioxidants - Aka immune system/disease fighting goods
Figs contain a type of antioxidant called phenols, which may lower your risk for heart disease and cancer by preventing cell damage by dangerous free radicals (dangerous amount of free radicals = cancer). Fiber lowers your risk for high cholesterol, heart disease and constipation.
Figs have been used in traditional medicine for lowering cholesterol levels and treating diabetes, constipation and skin problems like vitiligo, psoriasis and eczema.
Helps in weight loss:
Apart from being rich in fiber, dried figs are low in calories. One piece of dried fig gives you just 47 calories. And, you obtain only 0.2 grams of total fat per dried fig. High fiber foods provide feelings of fullness and can reduce hunger and cravings. So, dried figs are an ideal snack for people who want to lose weight. Figs are also said to lower your triglycerides (blood sugar), which is huge in not only weight loss, but for diabetes, blood pressure, etc.
Strengthens your bones: One dried fig gives you 3% calcium of your daily calcium requirement. Along with other calcium rich foods, they can help to improve bone density and strength.
Cures iron-deficiency Dried figs are a rich source of iron. One dried fig can give you 2% of your daily iron requirement.
Improves reproductive health: According to ancient literature, the Greeks used fig as a natural aphrodisiac. Figs were considered as a sacred fruit and were closely associated with fertility and love. Oooo la la:).
Point being = eat dried figs. They're so delicious it seems too good to be true and they're filling, healthy, and curb that sugar craving beautifully.
References:
www.bbcgoodfood.com
University of Utah Marriott Library article database