(Image source from: Canva.com)

Dried fruits and nuts are extremely useful, and nearly every kitchen has at least one container for them. From almonds and walnuts to raisins and dates, they are praised not only as important ingredients in cooking but also as everyday health enhancers. Each type is loaded with nutrients and provides fibre, healthy fats, and key minerals. However, one often overlooked option is anjeer, or dried fig. It quietly offers many advantages for our health. When soaked overnight, it changes from a chewy treat into a soft, easily digestible superfood that helps with everything from digestive health to blood sugar stability. Anjeer is abundant in fibre, calcium, iron, and antioxidants, making it a natural solution for issues like constipation, tiredness, and hormonal disturbances. Furthermore, incorporating this dried fruit into your daily life is very simple. Let's dive into why soaked anjeer should have a regular spot in your diet.

Here are seven advantages:

Improves Digestive Health And Eases Constipation: Anjeer contains both soluble and insoluble fibre, which assists in regulating bowel movements and relieving constipation. Soaking the figs boosts their fibre content and makes them easier to digest, especially for people with slow digestion. Shilpa Arora, a nutritionist and macrobiotic health coach, suggests mixing soaked figs with water or milk for chronic constipation relief. The fibre helps add bulk to stools and promotes smoother elimination, making it a gentle, natural solution for bloating and irregular digestive patterns.

Promotes Heart Health: Figs are known to help lower triglyceride levels, which are fatty particles in the blood that can lead to heart issues. The antioxidants in anjeer also aid in removing free radicals that can harm blood vessels over time. Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology has shown that fig leaf extract can lower blood pressure and enhance lipid profiles in participants. Because soaked anjeer is rich in potassium and low in sodium, it is considered beneficial for heart health.

Assists In Weight Control: Looking to shed some pounds or keep a healthy weight? Soaked anjeer can assist. The fibre in figs helps you feel satisfied longer, reducing the urge to snack unnecessarily and maintaining stable blood sugar. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that high-fibre diets contribute to better weight management and a lower likelihood of obesity. Just keep in mind that figs are high in calories, so try to limit yourself to 2-3 soaked pieces per day.

Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Even though they are sweet, figs can be safe for people with diabetes when eaten in moderation. Their high fibre content slows the absorption of sugar, preventing rapid increases in blood sugar levels. Nutritionist Dr. Anju Sood from Bangalore states, "Figs are really high in fibre, and while they taste sweet, it is the fibre that keeps the sugar from being released too quickly into the bloodstream."

Strengthens Bones And Prevents Deficiencies: Soaked figs are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bones. If you cannot consume dairy or want to include different sources of calcium, figs are a fantastic choice. Health professionals highlight that women, particularly those who have gone through menopause, often lack enough calcium. Adding soaked figs to your meals can help fill this nutritional gap and promote bone strength.

Improves Reproductive Health And Hormonal Balance: Figs have been seen as a sign of fertility in ancient societies. Nowadays, they are suggested for enhancing reproductive wellness, especially for women dealing with PMS, PCOD, or symptoms after menopause.

Packed With Antioxidants And Anti-Ageing Properties: Figs are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, which assist in shielding your cells from harm. These substances help combat oxidative stress, lessen inflammation, and might even help delay the signs of ageing. In fact, many health specialists recommend eating soaked figs regularly to enhance skin quality, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall cell health.

How to eat Soaked Anjeer?

Add To Your Morning Ritual: This method is the most common and effective way to enjoy figs. Soak 2-3 dried figs in water overnight and consume them as soon as you wake up. You can pair them with a glass of warm water or herbal tea for extra detox benefits.

Blend In Your Smoothie: If you enjoy smoothies, soaked figs are an excellent addition. Combine them with banana, oats, and milk (or plant-based options) for a rich, nutritious breakfast. The natural sweetness from the figs allows you to avoid adding any sugar.

Add To Desi Desserts: Chopped soaked figs can provide a chewy, caramel-like consistency in Indian sweets. Mix them into kheer, halwa, or even homemade laddoos for a fiber-rich enhancement. They also go well with flavors like cardamom, saffron, and ghee.

Add To Your Bedtime Drink: This is especially loved in winter. Blend two soaked figs with a cup of warm milk and a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. It is soothing, slightly sweet, and can help improve sleep due to its magnesium and tryptophan content.

What Is Anjeer Water?

Do not discard the water used to soak your figs. Fig water is beneficial on its own. It contains soluble fiber, antioxidants, and minerals that aid in digestion, help regulate blood sugar, and contribute to bone health.