All fruits can improve the health of your body and increase your longevity. However, there are certain fruits that are better than others. These fruits are normally exotic in nature and come packed with all sorts of vitamins and minerals not found in everyday grocery store foods. One in particular is called guava. It is fruits like this that naturopathic doctors recommend consuming to their patients.
This amazing fruit comes from the Myrtle family and is very tasty. You’ll find it grown in South and Central America, and even in Florida. They come in various colors, including white, pink, or pale green. They are round and sometimes oval in shape with edible brown seeds inside. The taste is described as sour or sweet, depending on the ripeness. Fruits it is often compared to are strawberries and pears.
Guavas can be eaten in desserts, smoothies, sauces, and even savory dishes. Keep in mind that it is best to consume this fruit fresh for maximum nutrients and benefits. You can consult with a naturopathic doctor to learn ways to incorporate this and other healthy foods into your daily diet.
Here is a quick overview of the main benefits that the guava fruit offers.
Give your immune system a boost
Having excellent immunity is crucial to keeping the common cold, flu, and other viral illnesses at bay. In every cup of guava you consume, you get 21 percent of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin A, 20 percent for potassium and folate. What’s really impressive is its vitamin C content, providing 628 percent per serving.
Vitamin C is an immune system enhancer and is also great for brain health. Eating this during pregnancy can also help ensure that your fetus has a healthy nervous system.
Improve your digestion
Guava is high in fiber content, which is essential for your food to be digested quickly and effectively. This is essential to cleanse the colon, which in turn helps prevent colon cancer. Another option would be to form a chelation therapy, which will help eliminate accumulated toxins in your body. Ozone therapy is also available at naturopathic centers, which can be used to treat various types of cancer.
In the past, guavas have been used to treat symptoms of dysentery and diarrhea. Those who suffer from constipation can find guavas to help clear the blockage. It is the seeds that act as a laxative.
Lower blood pressure and promote heart health
Regular consumption of guava can help prevent blood from thickening, which can lead to high blood pressure and possible heart problems, such as heart attack and stroke. If you are already dealing with these conditions, guava can help improve them. A study was conducted with 120 participants with high blood pressure. All were given guava before each meal over the course of 12 weeks. By the end of the trial, all of their blood pressure levels had dropped.
Lower your blood sugar levels
Finally, guava consumption can help balance blood sugar levels. The fiber inside the guava is responsible for regulating glucose and insulin levels. A clinical study was conducted in which it was shown that drinking tea made from guava leaves helped lower blood sugar levels in 19 participants. This effect lasted up to two hours.
The same Japanese researchers conducted further tests with 20 participants with type 2 diabetes. The results showed that when guava leaf tea was drunk after eating, blood sugar levels dropped by more than 10 percent.
Naturopathic doctors in medicine have been helping patients with a number of diverse ailments. They provide all kinds of services, including teaching lifestyle changes, providing ozone and chelation therapy, and even offering hormone replacement. Consult with a naturopathic doctor today to learn more about improving your diet and lifestyle.