Figs have been a beloved fruit for many years. They are sweet, tasty, and can be eaten just as they are or added to recipes. People often wonder if figs are more acidic or more on the alkaline side. We are here to clear that up for you by diving into their acidity and alkalinity.
Table of Contents
Nutritional Facts About Figs
Figs are nutritious and packed with good stuff. Here’s what’s in a fig that’s medium-sized (around 50 grams), when eaten raw:
- Calories: 37
- Carbs: 9.6 grams
- Fiber: 1.4 grams
- Protein: 0.4 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
- Vitamin B6: 0.04 milligrams
- Vitamin K: 3.5 micrograms
- Potassium: 116 milligrams
- Magnesium: 10 milligrams
- Calcium: 17 milligrams
This just goes to show that figs are not only low in calories but also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
What Influences the pH of Figs?
Several things can affect how acidic or alkaline figs are, like:
- Ripeness: Unripe figs are more on the alkaline side, but when they ripen, they get more acidic.
- How they’re stored: Figs kept in warm or wet places might turn acidic, but if they are in cool, dry spots, they stay more alkaline.
- How they’re prepared or changed: If you dry out figs, they get more acidic, but if you add something like baking soda, they become more alkaline.
The pH of fresh figs generally is more on the alkaline side, whereas dried figs can be quite acidic. Keep these points in mind when you pick and prepare your figs, so they stay good for you.
So, Are Figs Acidic or Alkaline?
Fresh figs are alkaline with a pH around 8.5, but they turn acidic when dried, having a pH around 6.0.
The way a fig is ripe, kept, and made ready to eat can change its pH. For instance, due to drying, figs can become acidic with a pH near 6.0.
Whether food is acidic or alkaline depends on what minerals it has and how it reacts with our body. Figs have a lot of potassium, which can help to balance out acids inside us, so overall, they tend to be more alkaline when they go through our system.
Good Things About Eating Figs and pH Balance
Here are some benefits of adding figs to your diet, especially when you want to keep a good pH balance:
- Making the body less acidic: Fresh figs have an alkaline effect, which can help balance out your body’s acids.
- Better digestion: The fiber in figs keeps your digestion smooth, which is key to a steady pH balance.
- Fighting inflammation: Figs can calm down inflammation in the body, which might mess with your pH levels if it goes on for too long.
- Important nutrients: Figs give you vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting your body to have a stable pH balance.
Not only are figs yummy, but they also help your body stay at a good pH level.
How to Enjoy Figs and Keep Your pH Happy
If you want to enjoy figs and keep a healthy pH level, here are some tips:
- Pick fresh figs: Choose figs that are smooth, round, and without any blemishes. These fresh figs are loaded with nutrients and lean more alkaline, which is great for pH balance.
- Eat them just right: Figs have natural sugars, so eating too many can make your body more acidic. Keep fig intake just right and pair them with other alkaline things like greens, veggies, and whole grains.
- Be mindful of dried figs: Since these are more acidic and sugary, have them in small amounts and eat other alkaline foods too.
- Get creative with figs: You can add figs to all kinds of meals and snacks, from morning oats to salads and even sweets. Fresh figs work well with other alkaline foods, and that’s good for a healthy diet that supports pH balance.
Eating fresh figs in the right amounts is one way to help your body’s pH stay where it should.
By putting figs into your regular diet in smart ways, you can not only savor their tasty flavor but also encourage better health and harmony in your body.
In Summary
Figs are not just scrumptious but are also great for maintaining a nice pH level in your body. Fresh figs can especially help your pH, but it’s important to eat them with a mix of other alkaline-producing foods.
Using these tips, like picking fresh figs and balancing how many you have, will not only let you indulge in their sweetness but also boost your health. Add figs to your meals for not just taste but also for the many benefits they can bring to your wellbeing.
