Nutrition
Question #9811
53 days ago
35

Why Should Fig Be Soaked In Water? - #9811

Anonymously

I’ve recently started incorporating figs into my diet after hearing about their numerous health benefits, but I keep coming across advice that says figs should be soaked in water before eating. I’m curious to know why this is necessary and if it really makes a difference. Is it about improving digestion, or does soaking figs enhance their nutritional value in some way? One reason I started eating figs is to help with my digestion. I struggle with occasional constipation, and I’ve heard figs are rich in fiber. Does soaking them in water make them easier to digest, or does it just soften them for convenience? Right now, I’ve been eating dried figs straight out of the packet, but I’m wondering if I’m missing out on some benefits by not soaking them first. I’ve also read that soaking figs can reduce their sugar content. As someone trying to manage my weight and avoid unnecessary sugar, this sounds appealing, but is it true? Does soaking figs actually reduce their calories or just dilute their natural sweetness? Another thing I’m curious about is whether soaking affects how figs impact the body. For example, I’ve read that figs are great for energy and rich in antioxidants. Does soaking them preserve these properties or enhance them? Some people say it helps with better absorption of nutrients, but I’m not sure how that works. Lastly, I’ve seen people recommend drinking the water used for soaking figs. Is this something I should be doing? Does the water carry any additional benefits, or is it safe to discard it? I’m also wondering if soaking is necessary for fresh figs or if it only applies to dried ones. If anyone here has been soaking figs regularly, I’d love to know your routine and why you do it. Does it actually improve digestion, reduce sugar, or enhance the overall health benefits? I want to make sure I’m getting the most out of this superfood.

Fig soaked in water
Fig benefits
Soaked figs for digestion
Healthy eating
Figs for weight loss
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Doctors’ responses

Dr Sujal Patil
Experience of 14 years in clinical and research field of Ayurveda. I am a Science based evidence based Ayurveda practitioner and incorporate accurate diet regimen and minimal medication in my practice with faster results sans no side effects.
53 days ago
4.83
Why Soak Figs in Water? 1. Digestion Support Soaking softens dried figs, making them easier to chew and digest. Improves bowel movement by activating their high soluble fiber content, aiding constipation relief. 2. Nutritional Enhancement Soaking does not reduce sugar content or calories but helps in better absorption of nutrients like antioxidants and minerals (iron, potassium). 3. Soaking Benefits Reduces the risk of bloating or discomfort caused by dried figs. Preserves energy-boosting properties while improving nutrient bioavailability. 4. Drinking Soaked Water The water retains trace minerals and antioxidants from the figs. Drinking it is safe and mildly beneficial. 5. Fresh Figs Soaking is unnecessary for fresh figs—they are naturally soft and nutrient-rich. Routine: Soak 2-3 dried figs in water overnight, consume them on an empty stomach for better digestion and health benefits. Drink the water for added nutrition.
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Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
52 days ago
4.83
Soaking figs before eating them is a practice that can enhance their digestive benefits, but it’s not strictly necessary. The main reason for soaking dried figs is to soften them, making them easier to digest, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. Soaking also helps release some of the natural sugars, which can slightly reduce the fig's sweetness and make them a bit easier on the digestive system. For people who struggle with constipation, the high fiber content in figs—both soluble and insoluble—can aid in promoting bowel movements, and soaking may help the fiber become more accessible and gentle on the stomach. As for whether soaking figs reduces their sugar content, it doesn’t lower their calorie count, but it can dilute the sugar concentration since some sugars leach out into the soaking water. This could make them a better choice for people looking to manage their sugar intake. However, the difference might not be significant enough to have a huge impact on overall sugar consumption. In terms of their nutritional benefits, soaking dried figs won’t strip them of their antioxidants or nutrients, but it may make the nutrients easier to absorb, as the soaking process can break down some of the fibers and anti-nutrient compounds that can interfere with nutrient absorption. Additionally, drinking the soaking water is often recommended, as it may contain some of the nutrients and antioxidants that leached out of the figs. For fresh figs, soaking isn’t typically necessary, as they are already hydrated, but soaking dried figs can help rehydrate them and enhance their benefits. If you’ve been eating dried figs straight from the packet, soaking them could give you the added advantage of making them easier to digest and more beneficial for your digestive health. If you’ve been soaking figs regularly, I’d love to hear about your experience—whether it’s helped with digestion, sugar reduction, or improved overall well-being!

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