From Natural Wellness Solutions  July E-News:

Thanks for Sharing Donna: ☺

Food of the Month

FIGS

Figs are loaded with potassium. In only three figs there is 526 mg. of potassium. Potassium helps muscles and nerves to function properly, it lowers the risk of high blood pressure, and helps maintain calcium levels as well as electrolyte and acid-base balance. The fiber content in figs makes them an excellent choice for general health and weight control. Figs also contain Carotenoids such as beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthins. Carotenoids protect your cells and lung health as well as enhancing the immune system. Eating foods rich in carotenoids enhances your body’s usage of these important nutrients. It is always a better choice to get important nutrients like carotenoids from raw whole foods as opposed to dietary supplements. Lutein is sensitive to cooking and storage as well as storage times, so eating figs fresh is a great way to get the eye protection properties of Lutein. Sutdies have shown that diets rich in carotenoids prove to be of significant importance in preventing chronic disease.
Figs are a sweet, delicious, healthy treat. Fully ripe figs are plump, have a rich deep color and yield to gentle pressure. Fresh figs will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored at 68 F. Dried figs will stay fresh for several months .

5 Minute Fig Energy Bars

Ingredients

1/2 cup creamy honey
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup fresh or dried figs
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 cup cinnamon or plain granola

Preparation:

 
In a  mixing bowl, mix honey and almond butter.

Cut the fresh or dried figs into 1/8 inch pieces.

Add figs, cranberries, almonds and granola to the honey and almond butter mixture. 

Press into a loaf pan.

Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Slice into 1 inch bars. Enjoy. ☺