Five benefits of fig fruit extract as it pertains to diabetes
The humble fig fruit is known botanically as Ficus carica, and science has revealed that it can support blood sugar, cholesterol and gastrointestinal comfort. Eating figs is good for you!
Known for its delightful sweetness, and something I serve along with brie cheese, the fig has unveiled its potent health secret: It helps with glucose control thanks to one compound in it called abscisic acid, or “ABA.” I put this in my blood-sugar support formula, and you can find it at health food stores nationwide.
ABA is found in plants, and it helps them cope with stressful situations like a drought or a temperature drop, for example. ABA also is found naturally in foods that people eat like tofu, carob and anise as well as others. People eat it every day, but unfortunately not enough is present in our diet.
According to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, “According to the latest U.S. dietary survey, about 92% of the population might have a deficient intake of ABA due to their deficient intake of fruits and vegetables.”
So, if almost everyone is deficient in ABA, and it helps with blood glucose and cholesterol, is that a contributing factor in the diabetes epidemic?
The implications of ABA-rich fig fruits extend beyond glycemic control. As a multifaceted plant extract, one I’d happily dub a superfood, I think it offers several auxiliary benefits, particularly for individuals grappling with hypertension, high cholesterol and pre-diabetes.
Here are the five most noteworthy benefits: inflammation reduction, antioxidant protection, blood pressure control, lipid profile improvement and soothing intestinal spasms.
Let me feature some conditions where a little fig jam couldn’t hurt! In my longer version of this article (posted at my website, suzycohen.com), you will find links to scientific papers and studies that showcase the healing benefits of figs in so many conditions other than diabetes. Apparently, it can help with indigestion, poor appetite, inflammatory bowel conditions, diarrhea, sore throats, cough and more.
Whether you're navigating the challenges of prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, or simply striving for better metabolic health, incorporating fig fruit extract into your regimen could be a step toward achieving a healthier, more balanced life. This ingredient is found in high-quality supplements, including one I have at my vitamin shop.
Always check with your doctor about changing your supplement routine, and make sure that your regimen includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and adjunctive health care professionals to help reduce complications.
As we continue to uncover the synergies between natural compounds in the botanical world and human health, we must embrace these gifts of nature with open arms and hopeful hearts rather than a skeptical eye.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Five benefits of fig fruit extract as it pertains to diabetes
