Dried figs facts

Information on Dried Figs

Dried figs are an excellent choice for those who crave sweets but do not want to gain any weight. They are extremely low in cholesterol, sugar and fat, and are also very beneficial for the human body because they provide a wide selection of essential nutrients. Figs are often considered as a symbol of sweetness, fertility and abundance. They are a succulent, moist type of fruit, that grow on the ficus tree. The ficus tree is also known by its botanical name of ficus carica. Figs are very popular and they can be consumed in their raw form but they can also be dried. Dried figs are commonly consumed as a tasty snack between meals. They are also often used in various types of desserts, cakes and even yogurt.

Dried Figs Nutritional Value

A serving of 4 figs may contain up to 70 calories. Most dried fruits contain much more sugar than their fresh counterparts, so that is why those who suffer from diabetes should steer clear of all types of dried fruits. The aforementioned serving of dry figs contains 13 grams of sugar and 11 percent of daily dietary requirement of dietary fiber. Dried figs are very efficient in strengthening the bones, decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood and increasing the levels of good cholesterol in the blood. A serving of 4 dried figs contains 4.3 percent of proteins, 3 milligrams of iron, 1.3 percent of fat content, 126 milligrams of calcium, 63.4 percent of carbohydrates, 77 milligrams of phosphorus, 2.4 percent of minerals, 80 International Units of vitamin A, 5.6 percent of dietary fiber and 2 milligrams of vitamin C.

How to Dry Figs?

The process of drying the figs is fairly simple and it can be done at home by anyone. The ripe figs should be freshly picked before the process. They need to be washed thoroughly, then placed under the sun at a spot where they receive as much direct sunlight as possible. In order to avoid damage caused by insects, the figs need to be covered with a cloth. They also need to be brought in during the night so that they do not get destroyed by the dew. It usually takes no more than 2 days for the figs to dry completely.