“When women take care of their health they become their own best friend” – Maya Angelou.
woman’s health is her capital. Harriet Beecher Stowe.
A woman is the epitome of strength and the backbone of society and her health should always come first. She provides a shield to the world against several problems and among many shields provided to her by Nature one is dried figs.
So what is a Fig?
Scientifically known as Ficus carica, figs (Anjeer) are the plants from the clan of Mulberry. They are naturally grown in Asia and North America. Though they are seasonal fruits, figs are available throughout the year because of no water content due to drying. Figs are pear-shaped fruits available in golden yellow, purple, and green colours with a mouth-watering taste. And dried figs are no less. Their health benefits for women make them one above all. They are very sweet and thus are often called ‘nature’s candy.
What are their health benefits for women?
1.Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and dried figs:
A hormonal disorder in women that leads to acne, change in the menstrual cycle, increased hair growth on face and body, cysts on ovary, fertility issues. Another issue that comes with it is weight gain due to hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance but foods like dried figs, berries, oranges etc. can help because they are high in fibre which means they make you feel full even if you have eaten less.
2. Figs and Pregnancy:
The fact that they are rich in iron which is good for ovulation makes the beliefs of ancient Greeks true that Figs are a sign of fertility. Their mineral account is quite richer than any other fruit and vegetable. They have plenty of calcium, iron, potassium and zinc which are very essential for a healthy pregnancy.
3. Dried figs and menstrual cramps:
Menstrual cramps accompanying pain, stress and decreased quality of life is nothing unusual but with dried figs, there is a relief. Study shows consuming dried figs can not only reduce dysmenorrhoea (menstrual cramps) but also help with pain and increases the quality of life during this period.
4. Helps in boosting immunity:
Oestrogen is a female hormone secreted by the ovary. Excess of it can cause many problems like menopausal problems, cancer of the breast, uterus and ovary, gain in weight and mood swings. Dried figs help the body to remove the excessive oestrogen thus preventing the above-said problems, ultimately improving immunity.
Keeping these and many other health benefits in mind women should include dried figs in their diet.
“At the end of the day, your health is your responsibility.†– Jillian Michaels