Stress Relief: The Calming Benefits of Feijoa

Introduction

Stress is the outcome of worry or mental tension arising from challenging situations. It is common to feel stressed, but it varies in severity for each individual. It is a natural reaction that forces us to navigate and confront uncomfortable situations anddifficulties. Stress can affect both the body and the mind; over time, stress can disturb our capability to perform day-to-day duties and tasks. 

Excessive stress might result in problems with one's physical and mental health. Developing healthy, effective coping mechanisms can minimise negative and distressing emotions and enhance a more positive lifestyle and routine. Relaxing whilst stressed may be challenging and is linked to negative thoughts and unpleasant feelings, such as anxiety and irritation; you may also find it difficult to concentrate and stay alert as you may experience feelings such as headaches, body aches, upset stomachs, or insomnia. Changes in appetite may also occur. Prolonged stress can exacerbate existing health issues and elevate the likelihood of increased substance use. Additionally, stressful situations can contribute to or worsen mental health conditions, notably anxiety and depression, necessitating access to healthcare. Persistent stress symptoms may disrupt daily functioning, impacting performance at work or school.¹

One study found that the general population had rates of stress, anxiety, and depression of 29.6%, 31.9%, and 33.7%, respectively. An additional analysis revealed that the prevalence rates for stress were 36.5%, anxiety was 26.9%, and depression was 28%.²

Importance of stress relief in maintaining overall well-being 

Long-term stress can physically worsen immune system dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and digestive disorders. Chronic stress can psychologically cause anxiety and depression, but exercise, mindfulness, and meditation can promote optimistic thinking and elevate mood. Since stress frequently results in heightened emotional reactivity, emotional stability is essential. However, effective stress-reduction strategies can allow people to regulate their emotions, promoting resilience and stability.

Stress reduction increases focus, concentration, and cognitive function, increasing productivity. Reducing stress also has a favourable interpersonal impact, reducing miscommunication and conflict. Healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, a balanced 

diet, and consistent sleep patterns, are crucial in reducing stress and promoting physical health and resilience against stress-related effects.⁶

Feijoa is a potential stress-relieving fruit 

Feijoa is a fruit sometimes referred to as pineapple guava. This fruit has gained popularity for its unusual flavour and its potential effects on elevating mood and reducing stress. Feijoa is a tropical fruit which is indigenous to South America.⁷ The chemicals and minerals these fruits carry tend to reduce stress and create relaxation. Examining the possible stress-relieving properties of feijoa presents an intriguing way to include natural medicines into a balanced lifestyle as interest in holistic approaches to well-being develops. We will examine the nutritional aspects of feijoa in this introduction, as well as the recent studies that indicate it may have a beneficial effect on stress reduction.⁸

Nutritional components and health benefits

Feijoa has many health benefits, such as minerals like vitamin C, which is important in boosting the immune system and preventing oxidative stress; fibre, promoting gut health and digestion, which are also two processes closely connected to mental health; and antioxidants. In addition, feijoa includes important minerals, including manganese, magnesium, and potassium, which are necessary to support healthy body processes. For example, potassium helps control blood pressure and is good for the heart.⁹

Historical and cultural significance

Originating in South America, feijoa has been historically and culturally significant for millennia. Native American tribes prized it for its therapeutic properties in addition to its culinary appeal. Feijoa is now a festival staple and a representation of regional identity in New Zealand. Its incorporation into regional traditions demonstrates a deep regard for this unusual fruit, which has been used in traditional medicine throughout many civilizations. These linkages reveal its possible stress-relieving qualities, adding depth to its current popularity. Continuous investigation delves into its manifold advantages, portraying feijoa as more than just a tasty food but also a possible partner in overall health, particularly in the area of stress reduction.¹⁰

Research on feijoa’s soothing qualities is ongoing, emphasising substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, including ellagic acid and quercetin. People who include feijoa in their diets report feeling more relaxed and happier, which suggests that it may have a beneficial effect on reducing stress. Feijoa appears to be a viable natural ally in the quest for emotional well-being as research into the plant grows.³

Feijoa consumption can provide essential bioactive compounds which support a healthy diet. In one study, the peel had more antioxidants and vitamin C than the pulp, contributing to strong antimicrobial properties against food-spoilage microorganisms.³

Rich in vitamins, polyphenols, fibre, and minerals, feijoa is a nutrient that may be found in its peel, leaf, and flower bud in addition to its pulp. The edible peel is often disregarded; however, it contains important polyphenols and pectin fibre. Recent research has demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities of feijoa in animals, suggesting that it may have health advantages. As Australia comes to terms with this unusual fruit, knowledge of its nutritional value and health benefits is essential for responsible eating.⁴

Examining the benefits of feijoa consumption offers an interesting direction for future research into natural stress-relief techniques, as stress and mental health issues are on the rise. The analysis of the fruit juice revealed the presence of numerous antioxidants, such as quercetin, ellagic acid, catechin, rutin, eriodictyol, gallic acid, pyrocatechol, syringic acid, and eriocitrin.⁵

Analysis of key compounds in feijoa linked to stress relief

Feijoa contains antioxidants such as polyphenols, CandE, and essential vitamins. These properties of the fruit are necessary to lower oxidative stress and improve general health. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals and protect cells from damage, while vitamins regulate metabolic pathways linked to stress. Feijoa ingredients impact neurotransmitter activity and hormone release, which interact with the body's stress response system. The antioxidants in feijoa reduce cortisol, the primary stress hormone, and aid in synthesising serotonin and other neurotransmitters that influence mood regulation and stress perception.⁴

Feijoa juice was observed to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, effectively guarding against oedema (fluid-related swelling indicative of inflammation) for a duration of up to five hours. Additionally, a separate investigation revealed that extracts from F. sellowiana demonstrated noteworthy antioxidant activity and decreased lipid peroxidation in rats. Feeding rats feijoa extract led to elevated glutathione levels, recognised as a "master antioxidant" that safeguards organs from damage. A different study explored the antioxidant effects of pineapple guava, highlighting its ability to mitigate the adverse effects of specific medications and treatments. Specifically, feijoa extracts enhanced sperm parameters in rats undergoing treatment for the testicular disease, including improvements in sperm count, morphology, motility, and sperm viability.³

In contrast to conventional stress-reduction techniques, feijoa provides a holistic and natural solution. It also promotes general health and provides instant comfort. Incorporating feijoa into dietary patterns adds a nutritional component to overall well-being and enhances current stress management techniques. Its effectiveness distinguishes it from other natural stress-relieving techniques by addressing stress on both physiological and psychological levels. Feijoa's effectiveness comes from its multidimensional effects, which tackle stress from both a physiological and psychological perspective.

Feijoa is unique among natural stress-relieving remedies because it provides a complete remedy by supporting a resilient and balanced mind and body rather than simply suppressing symptoms. This multifaceted approach highlights Feijoa's potential to offer long-lasting and comprehensive well-being benefits, making it a notable candidate in the quest for holistic stress treatment.¹¹

Incorporating feijoa into your lifestyle 

Embrace stress relief with Feijoa by incorporating this nutrient-packed fruit into your daily routine. Start your day with a feijoa-infused smoothie or enjoy it as a snack in the form of energy bars or dried mixes. Enhance the experience by making the preparation a mindful practice, focusing on each step.

Consider feijoa's aromatic qualities for herbal teas or relaxation rituals like warm baths. Stay hydrated with its high water content, supporting overall well-being. Mindful eating and savouring each bite can amplify stress-relief effects. Be creative in the kitchen, exploring feijoa in salads or other stress-busting recipes. Keep dietary restrictions and allergies in mind to ensure a balanced approach.⁸

Test out these tasty feijoa recipes!

• Feijoa Jam: Make a well-liked feijoa jam to celebrate the bounty of feijoas. Add some cheese and lemon to up the flavour profile of this spread, which works well on bread and sandwiches.⁸
• Feijoa Cake: Turn feijoa pulp into a delicious cake or muffin icing to give your baked goods a zesty, moist feel.⁸
• Feijoa Ice Cream: Treat yourself to some cool Feijoa ice cream to beat the heat. Add frozen feijoas to this refreshing treat for the ideal summertime munchie.⁸

Where can I buy feijoa?

Their short-lived shelf life makes them hard to find in most farmers' markets. When in season, they are usually easily found at supermarkets and online retailers. Feijoas are seasonal fruits that ripen in March through June, during the autumn and early summer.⁸

Summary

Stress is the result of challenging situations, which can impact an individual's physical and psychological well-being.

Chronic stress can cause heart problems, mental health concerns, and immune system dysfunction.

The potential stress-reduction benefits of the tropical fruit feijoa are gaining more attention. Feijoa is high in fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It is significant historically and culturally as well.

Recent research on feijoa has shown that it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may have a beneficial effect on reducing stress.

The fruit Feijoa contains vitamins such as polyphenols, which influence a reduction in oxidative stress and control neurotransmitter activity, causing cortisol levels to drop.

Feijoa treats the physiological and psychological components of stress, providing a comprehensive and all-natural remedy.

To reduce stress, include feijoa in a well-balanced diet; smoothies, energy bars, and salads are some examples.

Delicious feijoa recipes, such as those for jam, cake, and ice cream, offer delightful ways to incorporate this fruit, which reduces stress, into everyday meals.

Feijoas are available from March to June at supermarkets and online shops as they are seasonal products.