Food & Fitness Friday: Figs

Let’s get figgy with it.

One ounce of dried figs has 3 grams of fiber. Fiber may help alleviate constipation and keep you feeling full longer. It may also help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels. Figs are a good source of calcium, which can ward off osteoporosis as well as other health issues.

Well-loved for their sweet, mild flavor and multiple uses, figs are low in calories and have no fat. One large, raw fig has just 47 calories. Figs are a great replacement for unhealthy snacks (in moderation).

Both raw and dried figs are good for you.

One ounce of dried figs has 3 grams of fiber. Fiber may help alleviate constipation and keep you feeling full longer. It may also help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels.

Figs are a good source of calcium, which can ward off osteoporosis as well as other health issues. You won't find a better plant source of calcium than figs.

If you’re hoping to add more antioxidants to your diet, you can’t go wrong with figs. Dried figs “have superior quality antioxidants.” Antioxidants are thought to reduce cell-damaging free radicals in the body. Nutrition experts recommend upping your antioxidant intake by eating more fruits and vegetables like figs.

Figs are one of the richest plant sources of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including:

vitamin A

vitamin C

vitamin K

B vitamins

potassium

magnesium

zinc

copper

manganese

iron

That alone is a great reason to consider slicing up a few as part of a salad or adding them to a savory chutney with dinner.

Fresh Fig & Avocado Grilled Cheese

INGREDIENTS

2 slices sourdough or gluten free bread

1-2 fresh figs, sliced

1/2 large avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced

1/4 cup fresh baby spinach leaves

favorite cheese (white cheddar works well or dairy-free)

1 Tablespoon Butter or Coconut oil

INSTRUCTIONS

Assemble the sandwich with avocado slices, figs, and spinach on the bottom piece of bread. Cover with cheese and then the top piece of bread.

Meanwhile, melt the butter over medium heat in a skillet. Place the sandwich into the butter and cover the pan. Cook until bottom piece of bread is toasted and then flip. Cook until cheese has melted and other piece of bread is toasty. Cut in half and enjoy!