If You Have Thyroid Issues, Feijoa Can Help You Manage Them
Feijoa is a winter fruit that is extremely beneficial for our bodies. Recent research has shown that feijoa contains a wealth of nutrients, including folic acid and iodine (approximately 3 mg per 100 g of fruit). These nutrients are crucial for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, as well as for overall health, immunity, and metabolic regulation. Consuming feijoa regularly can offer natural support to the thyroid and help manage certain disorders associated with it.
Health Benefits of Feijoa
Feijoa offers numerous health benefits. Firstly, it can improve focus, concentration, and memory. The fruit contains natural antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, reducing cellular damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant capacity also supports the immune system, helping the body resist infections.
In addition, feijoa can contribute to heart health. Regular consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases by supporting healthy blood pressure levels and improving circulation. One of the significant advantages of feijoa is that it has a relatively low impact on blood sugar levels, making it suitable for people who need to monitor glucose levels. It also promotes digestive health due to its fiber content, which supports proper bowel function and reduces bloating and constipation.
How Feijoa Supports Thyroid Health
The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce essential hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate metabolism, energy levels, and many other critical bodily functions. Feijoa’s iodine content, combined with its antioxidant and nutrient-rich profile, makes it an excellent natural supplement for maintaining thyroid health. Regular consumption of feijoa can help stabilize thyroid function, support hormone production, and reduce symptoms associated with thyroid disorders, such as fatigue, hair loss, and weight fluctuations.
Feijoa-Based Recipes for Thyroid Support
There are several natural ways to incorporate feijoa into your routine to support thyroid health. Here are a few effective recipes:
1. Feijoa and Sugar Mix:
Take 1 kg of feijoa and 1 kg of sugar. Pass the fruit through a meat grinder and transfer the mixture into a jar. Cover it with a lid and leave it in a cool, dark place for several days. Occasionally stir with a wooden spoon to ensure the sugar fully dissolves and the fruit releases its juice. Consume 1 tablespoon of this mixture in the morning and evening for 10 days, then rest for 10 days. This routine can help improve thyroid function and overall vitality.
2. Walnut Shell and Feijoa Alternative:
For an alternative approach, pour 0.5 liters of vodka over 1 cup of crushed walnut shells and let it sit for 10 days in a cool, closed container. Take 1 teaspoon of this infusion in the morning before meals. Similar to the feijoa mixture, follow a 10-day consumption period followed by a 10-day break. You can alternate between the feijoa mixture and the walnut shell infusion: one month using feijoa, the next month using the walnut infusion.
3. Daily Consumption of Fresh Feijoa:
For individuals with thyroid disorders, it is essential to consume 250–300 g of fresh feijoa 2–3 times daily for 2–3 weeks. During winter, you can prepare a dried fruit infusion by pouring 2 cups of boiling water over 2–4 tablespoons of dried feijoa, keeping it in a thermos throughout the day. Drink ½ cup of this infusion three times a day, 30 minutes before meals.
How to Eat Feijoa
Eating feijoa in its natural form is highly beneficial. Cut the fruit in half, scoop out the fragrant pulp with a spoon, and enjoy it. The skin is also extremely valuable, as it contains phenolic compounds such as catechins and leucoanthocyanins, which are biologically active antioxidants. These compounds have been linked to cancer prevention and general cellular protection.
However, the skin has a slightly bitter taste, which can be off-putting for some. To retain the fruit’s nutrients while making it more palatable, you can peel, dry, and boil the feijoa skin with tea. This method preserves most of the antioxidants while providing a flavorful, nutrient-rich beverage.
Additional Benefits and Precautions
Regular inclusion of feijoa in your diet not only supports thyroid health but also improves mental clarity, boosts immunity, aids digestion, and maintains heart health. The fruit’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help combat the negative effects of environmental stressors and aging.
However, it is important to remember that while feijoa is highly beneficial, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Individuals with thyroid conditions should consult an endocrinologist before making significant changes to their diet or starting natural remedies. Combining feijoa consumption with regular medical checkups ensures safe and effective support for thyroid function.
Conclusion
Feijoa is a winter powerhouse fruit that provides essential nutrients, antioxidants, and natural support for thyroid health. Its consumption can improve focus, memory, digestion, cardiovascular function, and immune defense while helping regulate blood sugar levels. By following simple recipes, such as the feijoa and sugar mixture, fresh fruit intake, or dried fruit infusions, individuals with thyroid issues can integrate this fruit into their daily routine safely and effectively.
Remember, the key to benefiting from feijoa is consistency. Eating fresh fruit, preparing natural infusions, and incorporating it into your meals can make a significant difference in managing thyroid health and supporting overall well-being. Always combine natural remedies with professional guidance to ensure comprehensive care for endocrine health.
