All fruits can improve the health of your body and increase its longevity. However, there are certain fruits that are simply better than others. These fruits are typically exotic in nature and packed with all kinds of vitamins and minerals not found in everyday grocery store foods. One in particular is called guava. They are fruits like this that naturopathic doctors recommend their patients to consume.

This amazing fruit comes from the Myrtle family and is very tasty. You will find it grown in South and Central America, and even Florida. They come in various colors, including white, pink, or pale green. They are round and sometimes oval in shape with brown edible seeds inside. The taste is described as sour or sweet, depending on the ripeness. The fruits it is often compared to are strawberries and pears.

Guavas can be consumed in desserts, smoothies, sauces, and even savory dishes. Keep in mind that it is best to consume this fresh fruit 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’s a quick overview of the main benefits that guava 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, which provides 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, which is essential for food to be digested quickly and efficiently. This is essential to cleanse your colon, which in turn helps prevent colon cancer. Another option would be the formation of a chelation therapy, which will help to eliminate the accumulated toxins in your body. Ozone therapy is also available in naturopathic centers, which can be used to treat various types of cancer.

In the past, guavas have been used to treat the symptoms of dysentery and diarrhea. Those suffering from constipation can find guavas to help remove the blockage. It is the seeds that act as laxatives.

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 a 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 test, all of her blood pressure levels had dropped.

Lower your blood sugar levels

Lastly, consuming guava can help balance blood sugar levels. The fiber within guava is responsible for regulating glucose and insulin levels. A clinical study was conducted in which drinking tea made from guava leaves was shown to help lower blood sugar levels in 19 participants. This effect lasted up to two hours.

The same Japanese researchers conducted further tests on 20 participants with type 2 diabetes. The results showed that when guava leaf tea was drank after eating, blood sugar levels dropped by more than 10 percent.

Naturopathic physicians in medicine have been helping patients with a number of various 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 physician today to learn more about improving your diet and lifestyle.