Figs

🍈 What Are Figs?
Figs are soft, sweet fruits with tiny edible seeds and a chewy, jam-like texture. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and various vitamins, and are commonly enjoyed fresh, dried, or incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Figs Occur?

A sensitivity to figs may arise due to how the body responds to certain natural compounds:

• Ficin: A natural enzyme present in figs that may irritate digestion.

• Latex-like compounds: Found in the skin and sap of figs, which may trigger sensitivity in some individuals.

• High fructose content: May contribute to discomfort for those sensitive to fructose.

🛠️ Supportive Lifestyle Choices

• Pause figs and fig-based foods for 8 weeks.

• Reintroduce gradually afterward to observe changes in tolerance.

• Track symptoms before and after reintroduction to better understand your response.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

• Digestive enzymes: May help with breaking down natural sugars and plant compounds.

• Probiotics: Support gut balance and overall digestive wellness.

• L-Glutamine: May support the intestinal lining and reduce irritation.

🌟 Why Might Sensitivity Occur to Figs but Not Other Fruits?

Figs contain unique characteristics that can influence reactivity:

• Ficin enzyme: Not commonly found in most fruits.

• Latex-like sap: More pronounced in figs compared to many other fruit varieties.

• Higher fructose content: Figs contain more fructose than lower-sugar fruits such as berries or melons.

🍽️ Popular Uses for Figs

• Fresh figs with cheese

• Fig jam

• Fig-stuffed pastries

• Dried figs as snacks

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Dates

• Prunes

• Grapes

• Berries