The fig season has arrived. What could be better than picking these delicious fruits directly from the tree, with their sun-drenched, sugar-filled flesh? But not everyone is lucky enough to have a fig tree at hand. By the way, did you know that the longest root ever recorded is that of a South African wild fig tree? Its taproot is almost 120 meters long! Discover all the good reasons to eat figs!

The fig, a fruit as old as time

The fig tree (Ficus Carica) is a fairly hardy, long-lived tree from the Mediterranean basin that is cultivated for the flavor of its fruit and whose roots can be extremely deep. Traces of its domestication have been found in Palestine dating back to 9000 BC.

"There are about 750 varieties of figs, which are classified according to their color: there are white (or green) figs, purple (or black) figs and gray (or red) figs.

On the side of the purple figs, the Solliès is the figue that seduces the most the French. Not very juicy but very sweet, it is cultivated in Solliès-Pont in the Var, known as the capital of the fig. From Cyprus, the Sonia Wolf has a unique feature: it is the only fig variety to have a stone!

The white figs are recognizable by their green or yellow color and very sweet red flesh, like the Dalmatia, a large elongated green fig with bright red flesh from Croatia. There is also the famous Marseillaise, with its pale green skin and very sweet red flesh. "

These leaves are traditionally used in cooking, for example, when preparing chestnuts by putting some in the cooking water. 

In addition, beware of its sap that can burn the skin. A popular remedy would be to apply 1 drop per day on a wart. This would allow it to be "burned".

Fresh figs: their nutritional contributions

The fig is rich in minerals and trace elements. It contains potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus mainly. Its skin is rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and carotenoids. 

Figs are an interesting source of group B vitamins.

Finally, its glucose content makes it a perfect ally for athletes or anyone needing a sugar boost right now.

These values are an average given as a guide. They depend on the year, the sunshine, the place of production, the variety, its ripening, the quality of the soil etc. ...

Fiber for good transit.

The amount of fiber in a fig is such that it regulates in no time the too lazy transits. Its fibers and seeds play a mechanical role of stimulation of the intestinal peristalsis and absorption of liquids allowing to increase the mass and the consistency of the stools. 

However, be careful if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, figs could aggravate the inflammation of your mucous membranes.

Figs and weight loss

Its richness in fiber confers the virtue of helping to lose weight. Indeed, fibers are allies in slimming diets: they cause the feeling of satiety more quickly and more durable over time. So no more snacking between meals!

Figs and diabetes.

Still thanks to its fibers, the fig is recommended in case of diabetes despite its apparent carbohydrate content. Indeed, the fibers trap the sugar in the cellulose which is then expelled by the stools. Blood sugar levels are more easily regulated with a high-fiber diet.

Figs and high blood pressure.

Potassium plays an important role in maintaining optimal blood pressure. If you are deficient, you may develop high blood pressure. The fig is an interesting source of potassium. Don't miss it!

Figs, a fountain of youth

The antioxidants contained in figs help fight against free radicals responsible for premature aging of cells. As a reminder, free radicals are also responsible for the appearance and development of certain cancers. The fig, like most fruits and vegetables, is a food to integrate into your plate for better health.

The fresh fig is a delicate fruit that does not keep long. Take advantage of the season to fill up on flavors while taking care of your health!

Sources: Eat Move, national nutrition health program.