Hey there! Great questions about anjeer (figs) and blood sugar concerns. So, the glycemic index (GI) is indeed an essential factor in managing blood sugar, especially for those watching glucose levels closely. Anjeer, whether fresh or dried, usually has a low to moderate GI - typically around 61 for dried figs and even lower for fresh, which means they won’t spike your blood sugar as quickly as high-GI foods might.
But yeah, as you’ve rightly pointed out, dried figs are more concentrated in natural sugars. This gives them a slightly higher glycemic load (GL) compared to fresh ones. It’s the GL that takes portion size into account, which is also significant when managing blood sugar. If you’re aiming to keep your sugar intake on check, just remember moderation and about portion size. Think of having maybe 1-3 figs as a serving, depending on the rest of your meals for the day.
You mentioned combining figs with other foods, and that’s a super great strategy! Pairing them with foods rich in healthy fats, like nuts or seeds, can indeed help moderate the sugar absorption. The fats and protein slow down digestion, which helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels – a little trick from the Ayurvedic toolbox, you might say!
Making smoothies with anjeer is a good idea, too, but watch out! Blending fruits can break down fibers, which might make sugars more quickly absorbed. To keep the GI lower, add some kale, spinach, or a spoonful of chia or flaxseeds. These add nutrients and fiber, balancing the smoothie.
Overall, consuming figs naturally (not much processing) with awareness of portion sizes and combined with low-GI foods and fats can certainly allow you to enjoy them without much worry.
If you have any specific digestion or metabolism concerns (like being diabetic or pre-diabetic), it’d be wise to keep a food journal of how your body responds and, if necessary, consult with a nutrition professional for personalized advice. Ayurveda always promotes understanding your own body and its unique responses…🤓



