Brown Turkey Fig Nutrition

Figs, a tree-borne fruit native to the Mediterranean, have been a prized food for humans since ancient times. There are hundreds of varieties of fig, which differ in color, shape and size. The most popular variety of fig, the brown turkey fig, is pear-shaped with purple to brown colored skin. Brown turkey figs are sweet and succulent and provide many essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

Description

Brown turkey figs, grown in warm climates, have whitish pink flesh and relatively few seeds. Figs are commonly eaten fresh; however, they can also be stewed or made into paste or preserves. A serving of brown turkey figs is two large figs, which provides 95 calories. Fresh brown turkey figs are available from June to October and can be purchased at most grocery stores.

Carbohydrates

Turkey figs are a good source of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide glucose, the main source of energy for all the organs, tissues and cells of your body. Two large brown turkey figs provide 24.6 g of total carbohydrates and 20.8 g of sugar. Adults should consume between 40 and 60 percent of their daily calories from carbohydrates, as recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine.

Dietary Fiber

Brown turkey figs are a source of dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining the health of your gastrointestinal tract. Two brown turkey figs provide 3.7 g of dietary fiber. Adults should consume between 25 and 38 g of fiber daily, as recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine. Dietary fiber also reduces the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.

Vitamins

Brown turkey figs are a source of vitamin B6, a water-soluble vitamin essential for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Two brown turkey figs provide 0.145 mg of vitamin B6. Adults need 1.3 mg of vitamin B6 daily, as recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine. Brown turkey figs are also a source of vitamin A and pantothenic acid.

Minerals

Brown turkey figs are a source of magnesium, a mineral necessary for energy metabolism and for the structure of cell membranes, bone and chromosomes. Two brown turkey figs provide 22 mg of magnesium. Men need 420 mg of magnesium daily and women need 320 mg, as recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine. Brown turkey figs also provide some calcium and potassium.