How to restore the protective properties of the stomach during reflux disease

Covid-19

coronavirus infection

diarrhea

rotavirus

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is accompanied by the development of an inflammatory process in the lower parts of the esophagus. The main reason for the development of gastroesophagitis is chronic reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. Unlike the stomach, the walls of which are covered with a special protective mucous layer, the walls of the esophagus do not have such protection and are extremely vulnerable to the effects of hydrochloric acid contained in gastric juice. Gastric reflux disease is dangerous because chronic irritation of the esophageal mucosa by gastric contents can eventually lead to the formation of esophageal cancer.

general characteristics

Figs are the fruits of a subtropical tree of the ficus genus. On rocky soil it grows as a shrub, although in more favorable conditions it can grow into an 11-meter tree. During a season, one such plant can produce several hundred fruits.

Content:

• general characteristics
• Nutritional value
• Benefits for the body
• Other useful properties
• Use in cosmetology
• Some Caveats
• How to choose and store correctly
• How to eat a fig tree

Fruits of different varieties may differ not only in color, but also in taste. The color of the fruit can range from black-purple to greenish-yellow, and the color of the flesh can range from soft pink to purple or amber. However, they are all pear-shaped, with juicy pulp and multiple seeds inside. Biologists say there are more than a thousand varieties of figs.

The fig tree has a long and rich history [1]. Archaeologists have found fossilized figs in Neolithic settlements. There is mention of these fruits in the Bible and other ancient writings. Some researchers suggest that the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden was not an apple, but a fig.

It is believed that the ancient Egyptians were the first to grow these trees, although according to another version, the plant’s homeland is Asia Minor. Then the plant appeared in Crete, and around the 9th century BC. e. The ancient Greeks made figs a staple of their traditional diet. They revered these fruits so much that they even created a law prohibiting the export of the best varieties of fig trees. In ancient Rome, the fruit was considered sacred. According to legend, the she-wolf who nursed the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, loved to rest under a fig tree. Already in ancient times, the ancients knew about 30 varieties of this culture. The fig tree was brought to the Western Hemisphere by Spanish conquerors in the 16th century. Today, some of the largest producers of figs are Turkey, Greece, Spain and Portugal. The fig tree grows in the Caucasus, Central Asia, Crimea, the Carpathians, as well as in the Mediterranean countries, in some regions of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and Russia.

Healthful composition of figs

Figs are used not only for weight loss, but also for the treatment and prevention of many diseases. All thanks to the rich and unique chemical composition of the product. Fresh figs are especially valuable. Thus, the pulp of the fruit contains 12 vitamins, a huge amount of minerals and trace elements. The vitamin complex is represented by the following components: B1, B2, B9, B6, A, beta-carotene, K, PP, E, C. Vitamin K has the highest concentration. 100 grams of fresh figs contain about 30% of the daily requirement of this substance.

Fresh berries have high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids. The latter have a powerful antioxidant effect. Antioxidants play an important role in the functioning of the body. Thus, they protect the body’s cells from the negative effects of the external environment, rejuvenate, and neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. It is harmful radicals that very often provoke oncological and cancerous diseases. In this regard, with regular consumption of figs, you can not only lose weight, but also prevent stomach and intestinal cancer.

Also, the mineral composition of the fruit pulp deserves attention. Thus, the following trace elements and minerals are revealed in figs:

• Potassium;
• Magnesium;
• Iron;
• Sodium;
• Phosphorus;
• Calcium;
• Copper.

It is worth noting that dried figs have the same mineral value. And some of their components even increase their concentration when dried. In terms of the amount of potassium, figs take second place of honor, after nuts.

Nutritional value

Fig fruit is a delicious dessert with few calories but rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants [2].

Interestingly, figs are compared to apples in terms of antioxidant content.
If we talk about dried fruits, then the concentration of all components in them increases several times. True, this also applies to calorie indicators: 100 g of dried fruit contains almost 250 kcal versus 74 kcal in the same amount of fresh fruit. Nutritional value per 100 g of fresh fruit

Calorie content and nutritional value of the product

How many calories do fresh and dried figs contain? Why are figs so popular for weight loss? Fresh figs are really very useful for losing weight. 100 grams of pulp contains less than 50 kcal. Thanks to this, the product is included in the diet. One fruit has approximately 20 kcal. Consequently, 1-2 fresh fruits will not affect your figure in any way, but will only cleanse the intestines, improve the functioning of the digestive system, and saturate the body with all the necessary nutrients.

During the drying process, the calorie content of the product increases sharply. Therefore, 100 grams of dried figs contain 256 kcal. Because of this, this berry is consumed in minimal quantities. Fig tree pulp contains proteins (3.1 grams), fats (0.8 grams), carbohydrates (58 grams). Dietary fiber is of the greatest value. After all, 2-3 fruits will provide the body with the daily norm of these fibers. Also, the product contains a lot of pectin, fiber, and organic acids.

Benefits for the body

The rich chemical composition of the fig tree makes the fruits beneficial: they prevent and treat many disorders in the body [3].

The healing effects of the fruit are known for diabetes, bronchitis, asthma, stomach and genitourinary disorders [4].

Reduces blood pressure

Fig fruits are good sources of potassium, a mineral that affects blood pressure. Many people's diets include not enough fruits and vegetables, but an excessive amount of very salty foods. Under such circumstances, potassium deficiency, sodium excess and, as a consequence, hypertension develop. Laboratory studies have shown that adding figs to your diet can help restore healthy potassium levels and stabilize blood pressure in just a few weeks.

Promotes weight loss

The fruits of the fig tree are rich in fiber, which greatly affects body weight. Researchers say that eating foods containing dietary fiber not only keeps you full longer, but also promotes faster weight loss. Fresh figs are also a good source of fiber. However, it is important to understand that in dried form it is a very high-calorie product, and for those who want to get rid of extra pounds, this is not very good news.

Useful for diabetes

Few realize that fig leaves can also be included in the diet. However, in some cultures these greens are actively consumed, and, as researchers say, they do it right. Substances that have antidiabetic properties have been discovered in fig tree leaves. This means that diabetics consuming fig leaf extract require lower doses of insulin injections [5].

Protects the cardiovascular system

An animal study found that an extract derived from green fig leaves was able to reduce triglyceride concentrations (the form in which fats are found in the blood). Fruits contain pectin, which is a soluble fiber that cleanses the body of excess cholesterol [6]. And this is an important fact for maintaining heart health. Dried fig fruits are no less useful. They contain phenols, Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids reduce the likelihood of developing coronary heart disease.

Has anti-cancer properties

And again we will talk about fig leaves.

Not long ago, scientists added one more to the list of beneficial properties of this plant – the ability to protect against cancer.

Based on the results of laboratory experiments, researchers suggested that fig leaf extract contains substances that inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells, including skin cancer [7]. The fiber contained in fruits protects the body from free radicals and prevents the growth of malignant tumors in the intestines. For the female body (especially after menopause), fruits are useful as a preventive measure against breast cancer. By the way, figs are also popular in Chinese medicine as a natural anti-cancer medicine.

Improves digestion

It is enough to eat 3 fig fruits daily to protect yourself from many digestive system disorders. In particular, the fiber contained in fruits improves intestinal motility, regulates its functioning and prevents constipation [8].

Powerful antioxidant

A huge amount of antioxidant substances are concentrated in the leaves, pulp and peel of fig tree fruits.

They stop oxidative processes in the body. Researchers say the dried fruit contains more antioxidants than fresh figs. This fact should comfort people who have no access to these exotic fruits in fresh form.

Restores calcium reserves

Figs are rich in calcium, which makes the fruit one of the foods that strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. In addition, its fruits contain phosphorus, which also stimulates the growth of bone tissue [9].

Treats bronchitis

The unique chemical composition of fig tree leaves makes them an ideal component for medicinal tea. Brewed greens of this plant are useful for respiratory diseases and bronchitis. This remedy is also used to prevent and relieve attacks in patients with asthma.

Antibacterial and antifungal agent

Malaysian scientists have said that fig tree fruits have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Experience has shown that the substances contained in the fruit kill harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, and also cause the death of some fungi.

Eliminates sexual dysfunction

For centuries, traditional healers have used figs to treat sexual dysfunction, infertility or weak erections. Figs are known in many cultures as a powerful aphrodisiac. To restore sexual strength in ancient times, it was advised to eat 2 fruits daily, which were previously soaked in milk overnight.

Smoothes wrinkles

Indian pharmacists also made their contribution to the study of the beneficial properties of figs. After a series of studies, they announced: fig tree extract effectively smoothes wrinkles, and also lightens age spots, freckles and acne marks [10].

Treatment

Non-drug treatment of signs and symptoms of reflux esophagitis includes a set of measures to normalize body weight, rational split meals, temporary or complete refusal to eat fried and fatty foods, citrus fruits, coffee, spices and seasonings, sauces, and alcohol. After eating, it is strictly forbidden to bend your body or lie down. Drug therapy for this disease includes taking antacids, coating agents, H2 histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors. If conservative therapy is ineffective, surgical intervention is prescribed, the purpose of which is suturing the lower esophageal sphincter.

For therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, it is recommended to take the metaprebiotic Stimbifide Plus, which has a three-component composition. The effect of the metaprebiotic is due to the content of fructopolysaccharides, calcium lactate and fructooligosaccharides. These components individually and collectively stimulate the growth of a person’s own intestinal and gastric microflora, normalize digestion, reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process in the esophagus with GERD, have a positive effect on gastric acidity and enhance the protective properties of the gastrointestinal tract. A comparative table will help you evaluate the benefits of a metaprebiotic compared to probiotics and prebiotics.

Other useful properties

The list of medicinal properties of figs does not end there.

Over the years of research into the functions of the fig tree, scientists have identified its healing abilities for more than 40 diseases of the digestive, endocrine, reproductive and respiratory systems [11].

Figs have a beneficial effect on the body when:

• sore throat;
• whooping cough;
• indigestion;
• abdominal cramps;
• fever;
• anemia;
• liver diseases;
• paralysis;
• skin diseases;
• ear pain;
• poor vision;
• boils;
• abscesses;
• venereal diseases;
• improper body acidity [12].

Basic rules for choosing a “good” fruit

How to choose the right figs? It is best to purchase them in a trusted place, the best option is in a store. When purchasing, you should focus not only on the appearance, but also on the aroma - it should be pleasant, sweetish, not too rich and not musty. Be extremely careful when transporting fresh fruit - it is easily damaged and spoils quickly. It is best stored in the refrigerator, but can be frozen if necessary. There are several basic characteristics that a “good” fruit must meet:

• no damage (cracks, dents);
• moderate softness;
• lack of sour odor;
• Color may vary depending on the variety, but a rich dark shade is optimal.

Hard fruits are unripe. And figs do not have the ability to ripen at home, so such a purchase should be abandoned. By the way, a large number of seeds can be considered an indicator of excellent taste. And one more nuance. If dried figs are creamy or light yellow in color, it means they are a variety with excellent flavor characteristics.

Use in cosmetology

Fig pulp puree applied to the skin of the face will help get rid of acne. Cosmetologists advise applying medicated masks daily for 15-20 minutes. And the milky juice from the fig stem will help get rid of warts and corns. Baked fruit gruel treats boils, abscesses, and skin inflammations. The antioxidant properties of fig juice will restore beautiful color, radiance and smoothness to the skin.

The pulp of the fruit is suitable for making homemade scrubs (mix with sugar and a small amount of olive oil) and a variety of masks. One of the most effective masks for improving skin tone consists of fig pulp, ginger powder, oatmeal and a few drops of bergamot essential oil. The peel of a fresh fig tree, which should be used to wipe your face, will help restore smoothness to your skin.

The healing properties of figs are also beneficial for hair. In particular, masks based on fruit mass make curls manageable, smooth, shiny, moisturize them and prevent the appearance of gray hair.

Weight loss diets based on figs

Many nutritionists advise including figs in your diet when dieting. But as a mono-diet, figs can be harmful. The best option would be to add fruits to various dishes: salads, meat, desserts. It is also good to eat figs as a snack. It is better to eat the fig tree in the first half of the day, for breakfast. After all, it is in the morning after waking up that the body requires a boost of energy and carbohydrates. A couple of fruits half an hour before sports activities will make your workout more productive.

Diet using dried figs

As a rule, diets include fresh fig fruits. But, there are several options for using dried fruits, which will also cleanse the body of toxins and get rid of extra pounds. So, dried berries contain a lot of fiber. To cleanse the body you need to prepare a special mixture:

• 100 grams of dried figs;
• 100 grams of raisins;
• 100 grams of dried apricots;
• 100 grams of senna;
• 1 liter of boiling water.

Dried fruits are ground in a blender or meat grinder, the herbs are poured with boiling water, and infused for 2 hours. Next, you need to strain the infusion and mix the herbs with dried fruits. This product is left in a warm place all night, and in the morning it is sent to the refrigerator. You need to use the product every evening, one spoon. In the morning, the body will be completely cleansed of stagnant toxins and waste. So, in one week of eating this product you can get rid of 3 kilograms.

Figs + kefir

This type of diet is considered the simplest. At the same time, in just 5 days you can get rid of 3-4 extra pounds. So, throughout the day, 0.5 kilograms of fresh fruits are consumed, and 1.4 liters of low-fat kefir are drunk. During this period, it is permissible to consume additional amounts of purified water. The duration of weight loss is no more than 5 days.

Dried figs + oatmeal

This dish is a great healthy breakfast option. It is breakfast that should be as high as possible in carbohydrates, in order to quickly awaken the body and “start” the digestive system. Therefore, dried fruits are added to oatmeal. Also, 3-4 dried fruits can be eaten for lunch or dinner to improve intestinal motility. But, at the same time, the fruits need to be soaked for half an hour in water to reduce the level of sugar in them, and therefore the level of calories.

Figs for weight loss as a snack

Experts have developed a version of a special diet that involves eating both dried and fresh figs as a snack. So, the daily diet looks like this:

• Breakfast: vegetable salad with herbs, 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Snack: 2 dried figs.
• Lunch: 100 grams of boiled beef, 100 grams of wild rice, 2 fresh figs, 1 glass of low-fat kefir.
• Afternoon snack: 2 dried figs, 1 cup of green tea (without sugar).
• Dinner: 200 grams of low-fat cottage cheese, 3 fresh fig fruits, 1 cup of mint tea (without sugar).

A week of such a diet will save you from 4-5 kilograms and improve your overall well-being. Those with a sweet tooth can replace their usual desserts with figs. And the combination of figs with various products diversifies the taste palette and makes the diet not so “boring”. You can prepare a salad with figs and prunes. Also, an excellent combination is figs, mozzarella, lemon juice, olive oil and boiled ham. This dish can replace a full meal.

How to choose and store correctly

Fresh figs are a perishable fruit that should preferably be eaten within a day or two after purchase.

Good fresh fruit is easy to recognize by its rich color, soft texture (but not spongy), and firm stem. The aroma of the ripe fruit is delicate and sweet. A sour smell indicates that it has begun to deteriorate; a bitter smell indicates that the fruit is not yet ripe. It is better to give preference to completely ripe ones, as they contain more antioxidants.

When buying dried fruits, it is also important to pay attention to their appearance, texture and smell. They should also be soft, with a pleasant smell, without damage or mold.

Ripe fruits should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in paper or placed in a shallow container. This is necessary so that the delicate fruits do not dry out or become crushed. Unripe fruits are stored at room temperature, but away from sunlight. Dried ones will stay fresh for several months if stored in a cool, dark place (maybe the refrigerator). In any case, fig tree fruits must be isolated from extraneous pungent odors, since they have the ability to quickly absorb aromas from the outside.

The best dried fig recipes

There are many different recipes that you can use dried fruit in. It will be an appropriate addition to cereals, salads, and meat dishes. Before using, you need to wash the figs thoroughly.

1. Soaked fruit added to a salad of shredded cabbage, carrots and apple will not only improve its taste, but also saturate the body with vitamin C and help strengthen vascular walls.
2. A mixture of figs and cottage cheese will help provide the body with the daily requirement of pectin, vitamin D and calcium. The curd mixture can be whipped in a blender. You can eat it with natural yogurt. If you cut a fresh fruit and put a piece of cheese into the cut, you can get a good appetizer for table wine or champagne.
3. A mixture made from figs, dried apricots, raisins, and prunes helps maintain normal heart function. Fruits should be taken in equal quantities. Add walnuts, honey and lemon juice to them. Twist everything through a meat grinder or put it in a blender. Eat 2 tsp. 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
4. Nut-fig butter is suitable for spreading on biscuits or apple slices. Nuts and figs, taken in equal quantities, are twisted through a meat grinder. Add a little lemon juice to the resulting mixture.
5. To add a little piquancy to the taste of rice or oatmeal, coarsely chopped soaked figs are added to the finished dish.
6. When making smoothies, figs can be used as a base instead of bananas. It goes well with other ingredients.
7. Among meat dishes, figs go best with lamb and poultry. It is added to sauces. However, we must remember that during heat treatment some of the beneficial properties of figs are lost.

We recommend that you read Losing Weight with Avocados

To prepare an effective remedy for coughs, bronchitis and colds, you need to cut 2 fruits into several parts, pour in 500 ml of milk and leave for 1 hour. Then bring the mixture to a boil, remove from heat, cover and cool to room temperature. Take the prepared decoction ½ cup 3 times a day before meals.

How to eat figs correctly

Fresh berries are most valued, but you can taste fully ripe and full of sweetness only at the place where they grow. A higher sugar content starts the fermentation process within 1 - 2 days after removing it from the branch. This is where another name came from, wine berry. They eat it fresh, dried or dried. The peculiarity is that when dried, it retains most of its beneficial properties, and is stored several times longer than fresh.

An ancient plant with a modern name is known in many countries and enjoys well-deserved respect among everyone. Mention of the fig is found in the Old Testament; among different peoples it is called a fig tree, a wineberry, or, more commonly, a fig.

Ancient Caria is considered to be its homeland; it was cultivated in Arabia, from where the fig gradually spread throughout the Mediterranean countries, Central Asia, Transcaucasia, Iran, and the Krasnodar Territory. Because of its rich taste and benefits for the body, the Greeks banned the export of figs outside the country.

In Ancient times, it was considered a symbol of prosperity, health and longevity. There are about 1 thousand varieties. The fig tree is almost never found in the wild. During the process of cultivation, many varieties were developed that differ in taste, color and size of the fruit. Some are great for eating fresh, while others tolerate drying or the drying process well, acquiring new taste qualities.