Dried figs weakens or strengthens. Dried figs - benefits and harms to the body

Mentioned in the Bible. The first people, Adam and Eve, were covered by the leaves of the fig tree. Fig fruit is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals. Rich chemical composition wine berry, as dried figs are called, has a positive effect on many processes in the human body. The berry is especially useful for women.

Very often, when drying, many fruits lose their beneficial features... But this does not apply to figs. The nutritional value of the berry after its drying increases, it is not for nothing that the soldiers ate it during the campaigns of Alexander the Great. Yes and fresh berries figs are difficult to store, so it is best to dry them. You can enjoy dried fruits for a whole year until the new harvest.

Composition and benefits for women

Dried fruits of the fig tree, or figs, contain many vitamins. Fruits are especially rich in vitamin A, folic acid, slightly less vitamin E. Of the minerals in the fig, there is enough magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and almost as much potassium as in nuts. Wine berries are valued for their high content - about 70 percent - glucose, sucrose. Pectin in the composition of figs increases the nutritional value of seed fruits, is able to normalize metabolism.

For the female body, dried berries are especially useful:

1. Maintain balance chemical elements in the period of critical days, eaten several fig berries help. Since they contain coumarin, the blood is thinned, facilitating the condition of the woman.
2. Anemia is one of the most common diseases of a woman during pregnancy. It is the use of dried figs that will improve the composition of the blood.
3. The properties of the wine berry include the stimulation of the lactation process, therefore, during the feeding period, they eat two or three pieces a day. Excessive hobby can negatively affect the digestive system of the child.
4. For those who suffer from increased body weight, the wine berry will be the best aid in losing weight. The inclusion of figs in the diet will allow you to quickly get full, help to exclude sweets and sweets from the menu. Fig berries are easy to replace during a snack.
5. To cleanse the body of a woman from toxins and toxins, dried fig tree fruits are used. There is so much fiber in them that after eating even two berries a day, the need for it will disappear. And the dietary fiber of the berry will relieve constipation, improve metabolism.
6. The symptoms of varicose veins are especially difficult in women. Dried figs replenish the potassium deficiency in the body, relieve swelling, cramps in the calf muscles.
7. Figs are useful for colds, tonsillitis. Dry figs infused with milk are used for gargling.
8. There are many seeds in the pulp of dried figs. In a crushed form, it is used as a scrub for exfoliating dead skin cells and rejuvenating the face.

The positive effect of fig fruit on female body described by Avicenna.

But some women will have to give up fig delicacies if they suffer from an acute form peptic ulcer stomach or duodenum. Oxalic acid in the composition of the fruit will irritate the walls of the digestive tract, increasing pain.

It is forbidden to eat dried figs for pancreatitis.

A large amount of glucose will prevent people with diabetes mellitus... Although there is no fig in the fruit essential oils, but allergy sufferers need to include a wine berry in the diet with caution.

Whatever benefit the woman's body is from the fig tree berry, it is necessary to observe the measure in its use.

Since figs grow only in warm countries, fresh fruits come to the trading network for a short time: either in July or in September. The ripeness of the berry is determined by the opening of the fruit from the bottom into four parts. Drying of fruits is carried out under a canopy, where they are well ventilated. It is not recommended to wash figs before drying.

The very name of the berry suggests that it can ferment like young wine. You can avoid this by dipping the fruits in boiling syrup for a second or two. Now it remains to lay them out on grates and place them in a well-ventilated room. After a week of drying, the berries are flattened, strung on a string and hung in the sun. Some berry bunch is placed over the included gas or put in the oven. After drying, the fruits are placed in a paper bag and kept in a cupboard.

There are also such ways to store figs:

• Dark figs are dried and put in sealed bags and placed in the freezer.
• The jam is prepared by passing the berries through a meat grinder along with lemon. Adding sugar to the cooked mass, cook over low heat for twenty to forty minutes. They store jam in jars. 700 grams of sugar are taken per kilogram of berries.
• Wine is prepared from dried figs with the addition of several blueberries. A kilogram of figs is poured with ten liters of warm water and placed in a dark place for ten days.

All types of storage of wine berries will allow you to enjoy its beneficial properties for a long time.

More information can be found in the video:

Hello everyone, friends! Let's talk today about dried figs.

I think that it will definitely interest and delight not only inveterate sweets, but also all those who try to eat healthy food.

And he regularly suffers from the eternal question: "How to replace harmful store sweets in the diet?"

After all, so often you want something sweet, tasty, but at the same time one that will not harm your appearance or health, right?

And I'll tell you today about dried figs - an amazingly healthy and unusually tasty dried fruit, about which everyone seems to have heard, but in fact, they know very little about it.

Let's talk today about the benefits of dried figs, who benefits from it, and who should avoid using it.

And also about how to choose the right figs so that this sweet delicacy only brings benefits and does not harm our health.

In this article, you will learn:

Dried figs - useful properties and contraindications

What is a fig - a berry or a fruit?

The fig, which we love, is the fruit of the tree of the same name, which is also called a fig tree, a fig tree (remember, from the Bible?), Fig, etc.

The fruits of the tree are also known under such names as fig, wine berry, fig.

There are many different opinions about what a fig fruit is.

Many people think that it is a berry. Others say it is a fruit.

And there is also an opinion that everyone's favorite fig is neither a fruit nor a berry. This is an inflorescence covered with a dense skin.

But, I think, whatever it may be - it is a fruit, a berry or an inflorescence - it does not at all affect the fact that it is useful, and it is worth using it, and this is the most important thing, right?

"Fig pedigree"

The origin of figs is the historical region of Asia Minor, Caria.

It was from this area that the fig tree began its "journey" across our planet, gradually conquering more and more territories and hearts of those with a sweet tooth.

So, over time, figs got to the Mediterranean countries, to Egypt, and then to Central Asia. It was brought to America in the 16th century. And in Russia they learned about the fig in the 18th century.

Now, at the present time, figs are very common in the Crimea, the Caucasus, the Carpathians, the Transcaucasus and on the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory.

What are the health benefits of dried figs?

Many people think that dried figs are much tastier than fresh ones.

Indeed, dried fruits are like candy, agree ☺

If the fig was properly harvested (dried), then it does not at all lose its useful properties, which are determined by its composition.

And he is very rich in its diversity.

There are vitamins in abundance (especially - vitamins A, C, B1, B2, etc.), and proteins, and potassium salts, and fiber, as well as organic acids (citric, malic and acetic), pectin substances, macro- and trace elements.

In addition, figs contain a rather rare substance - ficin, which is able to dissolve blood clots.

The official composition for 100 grams of fruit is as follows:

• healthy fats - 1.5 grams, including Omega-3 and Omega-6,
• proteins - 4.5 grams,
• carbohydrates - 65 grams,
• minerals -2.6 grams,
• vitamins - 0.5 mg for every 100 grams.

And these are very good indicators!

It is especially valuable in a sufficiently high content of potassium and phytosterols, which contributes to the powerful support of the health of the whole organism.

Calorie content of dried figs

Of course, in dried form, the calorie content for every 100 grams of these fruits is higher than that of fresh ones - about 215 kcal.

But you should not be afraid of this, since it is simply impossible to consume dried figs in the same quantity as fresh ones, they are very satisfying, and you will not eat a lot of them.

Moreover, many lovers of this delicacy say that just the same fresh figs can be eaten sooo much, and not notice how it happened, unlike dried figs.

I myself have noticed that dried figs are enough for a couple of three pieces until you are completely satisfied with the taste and for satiety.

Which figs are healthier - dried or fresh?

Ideally, of course, it is better to consume the fruits of the figs fresh, or even better - directly from the branch, so they will undoubtedly bring much more benefit.

But figs do not grow everywhere, unfortunately.

Therefore, in many countries and regions it is possible to purchase only dried figs, which, as mentioned above, if it was properly dried and prepared, stored correctly, then in its main useful properties it is almost as good as fresh figs.

Moreover, fresh figs are now becoming available in regions where they do not grow.

V modern world delivery of any products is carried out to all parts of the world, and this, on the one hand, of course, is great.

But, on the other hand, fresh vegetables and fruits (in our case, figs) are always exported in an immature state (it would be more honest to say - in a very immature state), which significantly reduces the useful properties of the product.

Any fruit that has ripened to the end on a branch, in all its useful properties, turns out to be more complete than the one that was plucked in advance, earlier than the period that nature itself "laid down" for it.

Therefore, friends, if you do not live where figs grow, and you do not have the opportunity to eat fresh, fully ripe figs directly, as they say, from a branch, then this is still the question of which figs are more useful - dried or fresh, but not ripe and brought from afar ...

What is the advantage of dried figs over fresh figs?

Let's take a closer look:

• The fact that dried fig tree fruits are sold at any time of the year, regardless of the season, they can be purchased on sale when you need it.
• Another great advantage is that in dried form, figs are stored perfectly and for a rather long time, unlike fresh fruits, and at the same time they do not lose their taste, which is very important.
• Moreover, in connection with all of the above, the fruits of dried figs are a great snack at any time and anywhere, wherever you are: it is convenient to take it with you to work, on the road, it is an excellent option for a snack or an addition to lunch for children. to school - instead of harmful sweets and "sneakers".
• How can you forget and again not note the high nutritional value of dried figs, its incredible beneficial properties for the body, a decent level of taste and ease of use: no plates and spoons with forks are needed, nothing flows from hand to hand, and does not get dirty with fat. You just take a wonderful fruit (of course, after washing it, and, if necessary, pre-soaking it) and enjoy it, anytime, anywhere!
• Simple, fast, healthy and incredibly tasty! In my opinion, what is needed in the modern pace of life!

Useful properties of dried figs

To be honest, we can endlessly talk about the beneficial properties of figs - there is such a wide range of all its benefits for our health and beauty.

And how many recipes are there traditional medicine that promise healing from diseases with the help of decoctions, infusions and various mixtures with dried figs in the composition - just do not count!

So, what are the benefits of dried figs:

• Dried figs contain quite a lot of fiber, which is simply irreplaceable for the health of our entire digestive system.
• A large amount (the content of which, by the way, in the fruits of figs is much higher than in the same apples!).
• Therefore, many knowledgeable doctors strongly recommend the use of figs for everyone who suffers from an iron deficiency in the body, along with other foods that increase the level, and other recommendations for increasing it (read the article on how to increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood here).
• If you regularly consume dried figs, then you can so well activate the work of the entire digestive system, and in particular, the intestines, that it will start to work for you just like a clock.
• And all this is achieved by combining fiber and the mild laxative effect of the fig itself. Therefore, the digestion of food occurs quickly and efficiently, and its elimination from the body does not take long.
• If you eat dried figs regularly, you can fairly decently improve the general substances in the body, as well as normalize the level of cholesterol in the blood, which is especially important for everyone who has such a problem in the body.
• With excellent nutritional value, dried figs are almost a complete meal, as many nutritionists claim. Not on an ongoing basis, but on trips, this is the best meal you can imagine: light, hearty, safe (in comparison with some road cafes and eating fast food on trips).
• For trips, especially long ones, dried figs are simply irreplaceable, and here's why: long sitting slows down all processes in our body, and digestion, like it or not, but worsens, and intestinal peristalsis also worsens.
• Many, after long trips, "leave" a couple of days until digestion is normalized. And figs contribute to the excellent work of the intestines, and no constipation and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, as if the food has not been digested and "stands" there, you are absolutely not threatened!
• I have tested this effect on myself many times: the whole trip I am satisfied and satisfied (well, how tasteful, eh?), And incredible lightness in the body - you are not distracted by any weight there ... ☺
• For "sedentary" jobs, which are now almost all - the story is the same: almost everyone complains of poor digestion, bloating and heaviness in the stomach! Friends, a couple of dried figs a day - and no problem! Well, of course, at the same time, no one canceled either sufficient physical activity after or before work, or a sufficient amount of liquid drunk per day!
• Such hearty, light and healthy snacks are especially important before important meetings, events, during exams, etc. When you are worried, worried, the body does not need any heavy food at all, which by its digestion, heaviness in the stomach and gurgling will remind us that we “ate” all day ... ☺ We have no time for this! We need lightness, satiety for a long time and benefit, of course!

Therefore, the advice is this: before an important event or meeting, or when you are in a hurry for an exam, it is better to eat a few pieces of good dried figs - and it will be good and easy for you to move, think and make those decisions that will only benefit you!

• Traditional medicine advises to include this fruit in their diet for everyone who suffers from palpitations, bronchial asthma, coughs, chest pains, hoarseness of the voice, and frequent sore throats.
• Be sure to include dried figs in your diet if you have a tendency (for prevention), or you already suffer from tachycardia, thrombosis, venous insufficiency and hypertension. You will quickly notice an improvement in your condition with these problems, and if you are prone to them, you will simply save yourself from them.
• It has been proven that the use of dried figs promotes active healing of connective tissues, and rutin, which is part of the fig, strengthens the capillary walls and promotes the complete absorption of vitamin C. Hence the conclusion: recovery, recovery and strengthening of the body are simply guaranteed to you!
• A long-known fact that has come to us since ancient times, and confirmed scientific research and the practical experience of many people is this: dried figs significantly increase the energy produced by our body. And it also radically changes the mood for the better, significantly increases efficiency and activates mental activity. Who will benefit from this? Yes to EVERYONE, right !?

Very important information: dried figs prevent the development of malignant tumors. Doctors say that daily consumption of this dried fruit by women who have experienced menopause reduces the likelihood of developing breast cancer by 36% !!!

• And since in dried figs in a large number is calcium, then the inclusion of this dried fruit in your diet will preserve bone strength for many years. It is important to know that the older the person is, the larger the daily portion of figs should be.
• Dried figs are good for women, men and children.
• Interestingly, dried figs eliminate bad breath.
• Delicious and sweet fruits of the fig tree restore the body after a long illness, eliminate physical fatigue, mental fatigue, and improve the quality of sleep.
• Dried fig is an indispensable product for pregnant women: folic acid and the B vitamins in figs ensure the normal course of pregnancy.
• Figs are a natural aphrodisiac that increases sex drive and improves reproductive health.
• Start giving children dried figs as early as possible, this will ensure the correct development of the growing body, and will also instill a correct and healthy understanding of what sweet goodies are, therefore, the child will grow up healthier and happier.

Revitalizing mixtures with figs

Combining the consumption of dried figs and nuts (especially walnut), as well as seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, etc.), you can enhance its beneficial effect on the body many times.

Since this combination tones up, significantly improves digestion, perfectly cleanses the body, promotes youth and longevity.

Many traditional medicine recipes and ancient Ayurveda recipes are based on these very foods - figs and nuts / seeds.

Here is a medicinal recipe that can be given to children for coughs (by the way, it works great for adults too!): Add three dried figs to a glass of milk, bring to a boil, and simmer under a lid for at least 30 minutes. Then insist, carefully wrapping it up, for an hour or two, or better, all night. Take several tablespoons at a time, before meals. You can drink a bite with honey.

In addition to getting rid of coughs, this remedy perfectly strengthens the immune system and improves well-being.

So, if such fig milk tastes good to you, then cook it for yourself more often to your health!

Dried figs for weight loss

Dried figs also help reduce body fat. Yes, it's sweet. Yes, it's high in calories.

And this is what confuses all those who hear that eating dried figs can lose weight.

Let's debunk forever this myth that dried fruit is a taboo when losing weight:

1. Firstly, you will not eat a lot of it, since this is impossible in principle.
2. Secondly, its sweetness is natural. This is NOT the sweetness found in artificial sweets.
3. Thirdly, this is a COMPLETELY natural product, there is NOTHING harmful in it (subject to its organic origin, of course, and environmentally friendly procurement, I will tell you about this below).

Many people note that after it they are thirsty. But is this really its disadvantage, given its benefits? Yes, dried figs take on a lot of water. But this is not a problem: drink enough BEFORE drinking it, drink AFTER it is great - fresh and clean water, combined with fiber and small grains-fig seeds, will only contribute to excellent and easy well-being!

This is not the case when you feel thirsty after an incomprehensible sweet, fatty and starchy food, this is a fundamentally different sensation, and therefore a fundamentally different state of health!

Add on the topic of losing weight, and how figs relate to this, I would like to say one more important thing: the ballast substances in figs reduce hunger, its seeds improve digestion and eliminate constipation, and potassium removes excess fluid from the body. And as a result, we have what? That's right, the effect of weight loss!

Do not forget that dried fig fruit helps to lose all unnecessary only in combination with other effective methods that are necessary for the effect of weight loss!

Recommendations for the correct use of dried figs

This is necessary not only for its taste, which becomes very delicate and resembles fresh figs, but also for its better digestion and absorption.

And also do not forget to drink enough clean water - this will enhance all the beneficial effects of this wonderful fruit on your body!

Dried figs - does it have any contraindications?

Despite the fact that dried figs are so healthy, there is still some caution when using it.

And, above all, it is a MEASURE.

Eating without measure, and even the best and highest quality product, no matter what useful properties it has, will ultimately only bring harm. A few things a day is the optimal dose.

Be careful if you have any diseases of the internal organs, and be sure to consult with your doctor who will give you the necessary recommendations based on your personal health condition.

Are any dried figs as healthy as they write about them?

Once upon a time I tried dried figs for the first time, and I just fell in love with this taste!

Fresh figs also did not disappoint, but, unfortunately, I live in a completely different area where it grows just like that easily on trees.

Therefore, dried figs for me have become one of my favorite snacks and one of my favorite sweets for tea.

But then I learned that there is a difference between dried fruits and dried fruits, that in ordinary supermarkets all dried fruits sold are, as a rule, processed with "chemistry", that in order for dried figs to be really useful, it must be chosen correctly!

When buying dried figs, you need to know that you need to choose only a natural product, which will definitely be without preservatives, and its cultivation will be organic!

Moreover, it should not be treated with sulfur dioxide for its safety, this is important!

And this will definitely be indicated on the packaging!

If you cannot find it in your stores, then look at dried figs on the ayherb, for example

Fig, also known as fig or fig, grows on trees of the genus ficus from the mulberry family. Latin name: Ficus carica.

F igovaya tree is deciduous and can reach a height of 7‒10 meters. Trees grow in dry, sunny areas with fresh and deep soils. They also settle in rocky areas and can survive in less fertile soils. Fig trees live up to 100 years and have long, winding branches that sometimes exceed the height of the tree itself. The homeland of figs is the Middle East and Western Asia. Fig trees are now cultivated all over the world, including Asia and North America.

Figs grow to a size of 3-5 centimeters, with an impressive weight of up to 50-70 grams. As they mature, green figs turn either purple or brown. Figs have a unique taste. The sweet soft texture and crunchy seeds create an unusual and interesting combination. The taste of the fruit also depends on its color. In nature, there are a large number of varieties of figs: oval or pear-shaped, white, green, red, yellow, purple and even black. Fresh figs are available from June to September, and dried figs are available all year round.

Let's take a step back in time and find out a little more about the origins of this amazing tree.

Fig is derived from the Latin ficus and the Hebrew feg. Fig trees are known to be the first to be grown and cultivated. They are mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of peace and prosperity, and Adam and Eve used fig leaves as clothing. The Assyrians used figs as a sweetener as early as 3,000 BC. e. V Ancient Greece it was eaten by the participants of the Olympiad, and it was presented to the winners as a reward. Aristotle in his works described the cultivation of figs in Greece. Thanks to the Greeks and Romans, fig trees spread throughout the Mediterranean region. Later, at the beginning of the 16th century, figs were brought to America and by the middle of the century - to China. Large fig gardens were planted in California by Spanish missionaries in the late 19th century.

Figs are wonderful and useful product... Many have tried it fresh or dried, but hardly thought about how useful it is.

Which figs are healthier - dried or fresh

No doubt fresh fruits are good for your health, but how good are dried fruits? If we talk about figs, then the difference is minimal. Unlike many dried fruits, dried figs have fewer calories than fresh ones! Approximately 20 kcal - in one dried fig, and in fresh - already 30 kcal. However, fresh figs contain more water and because they take up more volume in the stomach, they satisfy hunger better. One dried fig contains 5 g of carbohydrates and 4 g of sugar, and fresh - 8 g and 7 g, respectively. The fiber content does not change after drying and is 1 g.

Health benefits and harms of dried figs

Figs are a storehouse of beneficial phytonutrients, antioxidants and vitamins. Dried figs are a source of natural sugars and soluble fiber. They are rich in fiber, potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, chlorine, sodium, vitamin B6 and K, retinol (vitamin A), thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2). The use of figs is recommended for asthma, coughs, bronchitis, sexual dysfunctions, constipation, gastrointestinal disorders.

Dried figs have a high glycemic index- 62, and fresh - 55. Therefore, eating dried figs quickly raises blood sugar levels. On the other hand, the presence of potassium helps to reduce spikes in sugar. Therefore, people with type 2 diabetes need to be very careful when consuming figs.

It should be noted that not only dried, but also fresh figs contain a large amount of natural sugar - fructose, which, if consumed in excess, may worsen the state of health. Therefore, dried figs are great as a natural and healthy treat for children and adults, but they are recommended to be consumed in moderation.

Sweet-tasting foods, including figs, quickly energize the body. Therefore, it is better to include them in the diet in the morning so that this energy is used up during the day.

Dried figs have many other health benefits. Let's take a look at some of them.

Excellent source of iron and tryptophan

Hemoglobin is the most important protein in the human body. And to maintain it at a physiological level, iron is extremely necessary. Due to the large amount of iron in dried figs, the level of hemoglobin in the blood can be significantly increased. This is especially true for the growing body of children and adolescents, as well as during pregnancy in women. One dried fig provides approximately 2% of an adult's daily iron requirement.

Strengthening the immune system

Weight control

The fiber in figs helps in weight loss. However, his high calorie content may have the opposite effect, especially when consumed with milk. A few pieces a day is enough. Be careful and eat in moderation!

The benefits of dried figs for men

For centuries, figs have been used as a treatment for infertility and erectile dysfunction. Dried figs are good for the male body, as they are rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. These trace elements increase the amount of energy, endurance and have a beneficial effect on potency. Magnesium has a positive effect on the production of male sex hormones.

Recipe for men: soak 2-3 pieces in milk, leave overnight and eat in the morning.

Lower blood pressure

As a rule, we obtain the sodium necessary for the vital functions of the body from salt. But common salt is low in potassium and high in sodium. This can lead to vascular problems, high blood pressure and, as a result, hypertension. One dried fig fruit contains 2 mg sodium and 129 mg potassium. Therefore, it is ideal for protecting the body from hypertension and has a calming effect on nervous system... Also, in the presence of a large amount of salt in the diet, potassium prevents the increased loss of calcium in the urine.

Excellent source of calcium

Calcium is one of the most important elements for the human body. It is essential for the formation and strengthening of bones, reduces the risk of osteoporosis, plays a major role in nerve function and is responsible for muscle contraction. Many plant foods contain calcium, but dried figs are an outstanding source of this micronutrient! Just five dried figs contain approximately 135 mg of calcium, which is about 12% of the daily requirement for an adult. For comparison, 100 ml of milk contains 125 mg of calcium.

Also in the composition of figs there is a large amount of phosphorus, which stimulates the formation of bones and is involved in their restoration in case of degradation or damage.

The benefits of dried figs for women

Excess estrogen in the body can lead to problems during menopause: cancer of the ovaries, breast, uterus, recruitment excess weight, mood swings. Fig fruit helps to normalize estrogen, thereby reducing the risk of developing various diseases and adverse consequences.

Cancer prevention

Figs are an excellent source of biologically active compounds such as fatty acid and phenols. These substances help reduce the risk of skin cancer. According to research, figs are rich in proteolytic enzymes that inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the stomach.

The high amount of fiber in figs also has positive impact not only on the general condition of the body, but also prevents the occurrence of breast cancer, abdominal cavity and rectum. In addition to figs, the benefits of dried plums, dates, apples and pears can also be noted.

Prophylaxis cardiovascular disease, lowering cholesterol levels and a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract

Dried figs are rich in phytosterols, phenols, fatty acids and vitamin B6. These nutrients reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Vitamin B6 is responsible for the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone that improves mood and lowers cholesterol.

Soluble fiber (pectin), which figs are rich in, stimulate intestinal motility. When moving along the digestive tract, these fibers work like a magnet and collect excess cholesterol, and then leave the body through the excretory system. This "cleaning" has a positive effect on the digestive system, reduces the likelihood of constipation, hemorrhoids, and normalizes the digestive tract. Figs contain a large amount of seeds, rich in mucin, which helps to remove toxins, mucus and cleanse the colon.

Recipe for constipation: Soak figs in water for about 12 hours, then consume in the morning and evening.

Reduces the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease

Figs are considered one of the best products with neuroinflammation. Research from Australian and American universities has shown that figs can reduce the amount of inflammatory cytokines, special proteins of the immune system. Eating figs is beneficial in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Benefits of Dried Figs for Skin

Recipe: Grind 5 fresh or dried figs with a blender until a smooth paste. Add 1 teaspoon oat flour(or finely ground flakes), 1 teaspoon of milk and half a teaspoon of ginger powder. Mix well until smooth. This mask can be used twice a week to leave your skin soft and smooth.

Figs are useful for reducing skin pigmentation, including freckles. And also as a moisturizing, nourishing and rejuvenating agent for the skin.

Recipe for a nourishing face mask: Cut 1-2 small figs in half, remove the pulp and grind in a puree. Add a teaspoon of honey or yogurt, stir. Apply the finished mask to the face and leave for 5 minutes, then rinse with water.

Uses and benefits of dried figs for hair

The condition of the hair and scalp depends on nutrition. If there is a lack of minerals, vitamins and trace elements in the diet, then this will certainly affect not only appearance, but also on hair growth and the condition of the skin. There are many different cosmetic products available, but they often do not give the desired results. Moreover, many of them are of artificial origin. In order to change the situation, first of all, you need to reconsider your diet, and secondly, include dried figs in your diet as a source of minerals and nutrients that will significantly improve the health of your hair. Magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin E in figs have a positive effect on scalp blood circulation and promote hair growth.

How to store dried figs

• Store in a cool and dry place.
• After opening the packaging, it is advisable to place the figs in an airtight container to extend the shelf life.
• Shelf life at room temperature is 6 to 12 months.
• In hot and humid climates, figs can be stored in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 months.
• If figs are frozen in an airtight container, the shelf life will then be 12-18 months.

Dried figs are not only an extremely healthy and nutritious product, but also an excellent addition to various dishes. Try adding shredded fruits to your favorite salad, muesli, porridge or granola for a new, interesting flavor to a familiar dish!

As you know, the fruits of the fig tree are beneficial because they have large quantity useful substances and vitamins, among them: beta-carotene, vitamin C, A, E, B vitamins (B, B1, B2, B6, B12), carbohydrates, sugar, starch, fatty acids, fiber. Dry fruit holds the record among all oriental fruits in terms of the composition of minerals: potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, iron. Minerals carry out metabolic processes. Beta-carotene, which is rich in figs, has a positive effect on the human body, providing immunostimulating and wound healing effects.

B vitamins take part in the work of the brain, bones, skin, circulatory system, and are essential for the functioning of the human body every day.

Figs are widely used in cosmetology. On the basis of the fruits, useful face masks are produced that improve the structure and appearance of the skin.

The benefits of dried figs

Fig-based nourishing masks are prepared mainly for loose and split ends. Fruit-based ointments for skin and nails are very effective and have undoubted benefits. In cooking, this berry is used to make sweet desserts. The fruit has a lot of sugar in its composition, so it is very high in calories, there are more than 200 calories per 100 grams. It is necessary to take dried fruit with caution for people with diabetes mellitus, suffering from diseases of the pancreas, with gastritis and with weight loss.

The fig tree (another name for figs) is useful for the work of all organs and systems of the human body:

• improves bowel function, thanks to fatty acids;
• accelerates metabolic processes in the digestive system;
• positively affects the composition of the blood and the process of hematopoiesis;
• improves liver function and lowers blood cholesterol levels;
• lowers body temperature with acute respiratory infections and flu;
• is a powerful antioxidant, the benefit is that it prevents oxidative processes in the human body.

Figs, whose beneficial properties have been proven, serves as the basis of production drugs for the treatment of diseases of the liver, kidneys, cardiovascular diseases and diseases of the circulatory system.

Useful properties of figs

In addition, dried figs have laxative properties. You can cook it yourself at home. How to dry figs?

1. Figs dried in an electric dryer. Once in hand, fresh fruit can be dried in a very short time, while retaining the beneficial properties and excellent taste. An electric dryer will help with this. To begin with, you need to pick up the most elastic and slightly immature fruits that do not have mechanical damage. The fruits are washed, twigs removed, cut in a convenient way and laid out on an electric dryer. Dried for 5 to 8 hours at a temperature of 60 degrees. To prepare dried figs in syrup, clean fruits are covered with sugar, in a proportion of 1 kg. sugar 400-500 gr. When the fruits give off juices (after about 6-7 hours), they are laid out on an electric dryer. The syrup is rolled up in jars and used to prepare desserts and other dishes. Figs, under the influence of drying, become hard, therefore they are well suited for preparing powder for dishes, shavings, compotes and drinks, but they can also be eaten simply dried. You need to store dry figs in solid containers: jars, eggplants, boxes, under a tightly closed lid.
2. Oven-dried figs. To get dried fruit at home, you can use the oven. This is a more affordable method than an electric dryer. How to dry figs in the oven? The washed clean fruits are separated from the stem and peeled, cut into 2 parts and laid out on a dry baking sheet covered with parchment. The sheet is placed in an oven preheated at 40-50 degrees for 4-5 hours. When the figs are golden brown, they can be removed from the oven. Figs are ready to eat. Dried figs in the oven produce wonderful compotes with a smoked berry flavor. The drink turns out to be incredibly tasty and healthy, you do not need to put sugar there, it is better to add lemon. The taste of dried figs is very high, therefore, it is served in expensive restaurants as an addition to desserts and as a separate dish. How to store dried figs in the oven? Fruits must be placed in well-ventilated vessels: in boxes, in jars, in boxes, wrapped in paper, put in bags, bags or bags, except for cellophane ones. It is better to use containers made of natural materials.
3. To get dried figs, you need to steam it, that is, make a dried fruit from the fruit. Peel and peel clean fruits, cut in the middle, so that the air and temperature fully affect the fruit. It is necessary to steam dry for at least 2-3 hours, then remove and string on special sticks to allow to dry. The properties of figs are such that in the process of drying, it increases in its volume several times. The dried fruit has a very sweet and slightly sugary taste, because during cooking at a low temperature, it retains its properties as much as possible, which is very useful for both adults and children. What can you do to get rid of the sugary taste? Professional culinary experts recommend eating fig tree fruit with hard cheese or tomatoes. You can add herbs like thyme, mint or lemon balm, which bind and eliminate the sugary taste of the fruit. To store dried fruit for a long time, you need to string the finished fruit on a stick or bunch. This ensures the circulation of air around the fruits and prevents them from spoiling.
4. Plain dried figs. The washed and peeled fruits are strung on a stick or bunch, wrapped with gauze or a thin clean cloth and dried in the sun, in a dry place away from moisture. This is a lengthy way to prepare dried fruit. Figs dried in this way are extremely useful for humans. As it is written in ancient Egyptian manuscripts, it was in this way, at home, that figs were dried in antiquity.
5. Dried figs on a string. In order to dry the fruit in a natural way and maintain a high amount of beneficial properties and substances, you first need to prepare the fig itself: you need to choose slightly unripe fruits, since they will ripen in a few days on their own. Wash the fruits thoroughly and let the water drain, dry slightly on a towel. Then, you need to pick up the threads on which the fruit will be strung. For this, it is best to use threads made from natural materials: cotton, wool or silk. Silk threads are well suited and very easy to use for drying. The fruits need to be squeezed so that they become flat, and strung on a thread with a needle, piercing the fruit in the middle. The thread does not need to be loaded. For 1 meter of silk thread, no more than 20-45 fruits are placed, since the fruit is quite heavy in weight. Hang the finished fruit strung on a thread in the place of drying: on the balcony, outside, under a canopy, in well-ventilated places. Be sure to cover with a thin layer of cloth or gauze, without creating a vacuum or disrupting the air circulation process. Dried figs retain their beneficial properties. Dried fig tree fruit retains its beneficial properties and is equivalent to fresh fruit in terms of the composition of nutrients. Dried fruits are used to make stewed fruit, desserts, preserves and jams.

Dried figs in the oven

Dried fruits are widely used in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver, as well as in the treatment of diseases of the kidneys and adrenal glands, it is recommended to replace sugar with dried or dried figs.

Figs occupy a special place. Derived from fruits subtropical fig tree, it carries tremendous benefits, being in no way inferior to fresh figs, which have a short shelf life and are difficult to transport, while the dried product is available to everyone. According to historical data, figs were first heard for several thousand years BC... Countries are considered the birthplace of these trees. Asia and the Mediterranean, and the cultivation area covers all countries with a hot southern climate.

Possible harm and contraindications

Dried figs can be consumed after consulting a doctor for the following diseases:

• diseases of the pancreas;
• acute pancreatitis;
• ulcers of the stomach and intestines;
• chronic gastritis;

As part of weekly diets with dried figs (approx. 5 fruits) recommend replacing afternoon snacks.

Pregnant and lactating women should eat dried fruits with caution, not exceeding the recommended dose in 50 g.

The norm for children is the maximum 3 dried figs two to three times a week, provided that the child is over 3 years old.

Before use, the fruits must be thoroughly rinsed and 12-15 minutes soak in hot water to wash off the sulfur dioxide, which is used to process the dried fruits in the factory, and then wash it cold.

How to choose quality dried figs

The color of a good fig can be from light brown to dark coffee shade, depending on the method of wilting and the region of growth. All fruits must be of the same size, slightly flattened, the presence of white bloom of sugars (glucose)... To the touch a good product moderately soft, with a pleasant aroma and without external traces of deterioration.

Unpleasant sour and salty taste indicates that the shelf life of such a product is already expired, and it is better to throw it away, because it is not suitable even for compote.

Proper storage of the product

Quality figs can maintain their properties without difficulty. during a year if kept in a cool dark place. When purchasing figs in large quantities, pour them into " breathable container"- a linen bag, this will add a couple of months to the shelf life.

Dried figs are an excellent representative of dried fruits with a bright taste and excellent effect on the body. But he also has a number of contraindications and a high energy value, which makes its use inaccessible to people suffering from obesity, diabetes mellitus and terrible sweet tooth who cannot control themselves.