Are Figs Good for Diabetics - Lowering Blood SugarLowering Blood Sugar

Are Figs Good for Diabetics

Are Figs Good for Diabetics? According to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), figs are not only loaded with fiber, but they can also be a great aid in helping to manage blood sugar levels.

It is also one of the best all-natural nutritious foods for diabetics. With that being said, here are some interesting facts about diabetes and figs.

Nutritional Value of 1 Fig

First off, when you do your research, you will find that the nutritional value of 1 fig (weight 8.4 grams) is as follows.

fig tree
  • Sodium: 1 mg
  • Fat; 0.1g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 5.4g
  • Protein: 0.3g
  • Calories: 21

Figs are also packed with a wide variety of essential vitamins and minerals including the following:

  • Vitamin A, C, K and B
  • Triterpenoids
  • Alkaloids
  • Potassium
  • Zinc
  • Copper
  • Magnesium
  • Iron
HEALTH BENEFITS OF FIGS

As you can see, figs are a healthy fiber-rich fruit so it is an excellent choice for helping reduce blood sugar levels. This fact is also true for fig leaf extracts since it can be used in improving the body’s insulin sensitivity.

Good Choice for the Entire Family

Keeping your family healthy and free from diseases like diabetes is a huge challenge in today’s current society.

Therefore, it is important to understand how the family should eat, particularly when it comes to what foods raise blood glucose and those that do not. And, as far as eating fruits like the fig, you may want to add this fruit to the breakfast menu in your home.

How Do Figs Reduce Blood Sugar levels?

The question is, how do figs reduce your blood sugar?

are figs good for diabetics

Based on information published by healthshots.com, there is a science behind how this fruit is absorbed into the body. Because of the fiber, potassium, and chlorogenic acid that is present in this fruit, it actually reduces the blood sugar level instead of causing a spike in insulin.

Of course, it is important, however, that you always eat this fruit in moderation to keep from going overboard. For instance, if you eat too many figs, it may cause a spike in your insulin.

How Many Figs Can You Eat in a Day?

So, how many figs can you eat in a day?

One of the main keys to adding any fruit comfortably to your diet is to know exactly how many you can actually eat. This is because the nutritional value and sugar content usually vary from one fruit to the next.

As such, when it comes to eating diabetes figs, it is one of the top picks or best fruits for diabetics on the list (i.e. low to moderate on the glycemic index).

This is only true when you are eating a moderate amount. Therefore, based on its sugar content and other related factors, you should only eat 2 to 3 figs a day.

If you eat more than this amount, figs may cause several serious health problems including gaining weight, digestive issues, and high peaks in blood glucose.

Are figs Gluten Free?

Yes, figs are a gluten-free fruit. In fact, virtually all fruits are considered to be gluten-free.

Can People with Diabetes Eat Dried Figs?

Today, there is a huge amount of information posted online about diseases like diabetes. Some of which, of course, address what foods diabetics can eat and what food should be avoided.

In some cases, this information may contain myths about figs that may be passed on to others. For instance, in the diabetic community, most people think that dried figs cannot be eaten, even though it is simply not true. You can enjoy eating dried fresh figs and dried figs, too.

are figs good for diabetes

So, if you want to add California Dried figs as a part of your daily diet, you absolutely can.

Typically, one of the main issues that many people are concerned about is the high sugar content in the foods that they eat. Yet, this is not the only factor that should be considered, especially when you are making smart food choices for diabetics.

With this in mind, here are 3 of the most essential nutrients for controlling and managing your blood sugar levels properly.

  • Protein
  • Fat
  • Fiber

Each of these nutrients is key to ensuring the body digests food longer. As compared to eating sugary foods alone, there is no quick spike in your insulin. Simply put, every time that you eat, you need a well-rounded meal that consists of fat, fiber, and/or protein.

Dried Figs Contain Fiber and Natural Sugar

Depending on the type of dried figs that you are planning to eat, there is at least 19 to 26 grams of sugar content. It is also important to note that dried figs do not contain refined or added sugar. And, even though sugar is sugar, figs are packed with essential nutrients that are good for your health.

So, if you want to eat figs (sugar) and yogurt (protein) together as a snack, you can. Actually, this combination can be a delicious addition to your breakfast. Or, if you choose to do so, you can eat yogurt and figs as a balanced sugar-friendly snack.

3 Ways to Eat Dried Figs to Manage Your Blood Sugar

1. Walnuts and Dried Figs

This is a great safe way for people who want to properly manage their blood sugar levels. Based on research studies, nuts combined with dried fruit are not only good for diabetics but also for preventing type 2 diabetes.

diabetes-figs

2. Plain Greek Yogurt and Dried Figs

As referenced above, plain Greek yogurt and dried figs can be the ideal mid-day snack for a boost of energy. Or, some people may eat plain yogurt with dried figs for breakfast.

3. Add Dried Figs to a Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board with veggies, meats, cheeses, and dried figs is also a great way to share nutrient-dense snacks.

Summary

Figs are a good nutrient-dense source of food for diabetics. When eaten in moderation, it can also help you control your blood sugar levels. You can add figs to plain yogurt for breakfast. Or, you may eat this combination as a late-night snack. Either way, you can eat these treats without spiking your insulin.

Also, before you add figs to your diet, it is important that you consult with your physician. Your physician can help you to make smart choices, specifically when it comes to monitoring blood sugar levels and healthy eating.

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