If there is one thing that we have learnt regarding FODMAPtesting here at Monash University, it is that there are a HUGE number offactors that can influence the FODMAP content of a food. This is why it is verydifficult to decide whether a food is high or low in FODMAPs simply based on aningredients list. Different food processing methods in particular can influencethe FODMAP content of a food.
The classic example here is sourdough spelt bread, wherespelt flour by itself is a high FODMAP food, the sourdough fermentation processused to make it into bread results in the end product being low FODMAP. In thesame way, the natural process of ripening can affect the FODMAP content ofcertain fruits.
We recently tested guavas for our app and made an interestingdiscovery when both ripe and unripe guavas were tested. Our testing found thatwhilst a serve of well ripened guava was low in FODMAPs, an equivalent serve ofunripe guava was high in FODMAPs. The ripening process therefore results in anoverall reduction in the total FODMAP content of guavas.
The opposite is true if we consider sugar bananas, where theripening process results in a total increase in FODMAP content.This is just another reason why the food testing we do here at MonashUniversity is so important, as we know that different foods behave verydifferently in terms of FODMAPs, even when they are subject to the sameprocessing methods/natural conditions.
So now that ripe guavas have been given the green light, youcan enjoy the following recipes for making guava jelly (jam) and guava androsemary glazed chicken breast. Guava jelly (jam) is a delicious traditionalColumbian food that can be used as a low FODMAP alternative to quince pastewith your favourite cheese, spread on toast or used as a fantastic marinade forchicken, duck or turkey.
Guava Jelly (jam)
INGREDIENTS
- 500g ripe guava
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 lemon, juiced
METHOD
- Wash and top and tail fruit (do not peel)
- Cover fruit with cold water in a saucepan. Boil until very soft
- Mash and sieve twice to remove pulp. Discard pulp
- Add sugar and lemon juice, boil uncovered for 45 minutes
- Pour jelly into sterilised jars and seal.
Guava and rosemary glazed chicken breast
Serves: 4
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INGREDIENTS
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 tbs. garlic infused olive oil
- 750g skinless chicken breast fillets
- Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup plain, gluten-free flour
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METHOD
- Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Line a baking tray with baking paper and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, over medium-low heat, combine guava jelly, lime juice and rosemary sprigs. Heat until the mixture reaches a liquid consistency.
- In large frying pan, over medium-high heat, heat oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Coat seasoned chicken in flour and place in hot pan. Cook chicken for 5 to 10 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Transfer chicken to baking tray. Pour guava mixture into two small bowls. Generously brush guava mixture from first bowl over chicken breasts.
- Cook in oven for 10-15 minutes or until guava glaze begins to caramelise. Slice chicken breasts and divide onto 4 serving plates. Brush chicken with guava mixture again from second bowl prior to serving. Serve with low FODMAP roast vegetables or salad.
FAQs
Across Southeast Asia, the guava, or "jambu batu," is a symbol of village life, evoking nostalgia and appearing in local literature and street names. In the Philippines, folklore tells of the guava tree's transformation from a symbol of greed to one of sustenance, reflecting the fruit's journey from sour to sweet.
What are the little white worms in guava? ›
That worm inside the ripe guava is just the larva of a fly. I don't know where you are, but in South America the most common genus is Anastrepha. It doesn't make any harm eating a guava with them... well, except for the poor larva, which will die. in biology, human parasites never lay their eggs on fruit.
What happens if we eat guava at night? ›
You can eat a guava at night, but because of the raised sugar levels you might not sleep due to insomnia. Therefore it is suggested to be eaten post a meal atleast 2-3 hrs before bed. Probably a little activity also does some good.
Who should not drink guava leaves? ›
These include:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women. While guavas are mostly considered safe, the same can't be said for the supplements containing guava leaf extract. ...
- People with skin conditions. The chemicals in guava fruit and leaf can irritate the skin in some cases. ...
- Pre-diabetic or diabetic patients.
Psidium guajava, the common guava, yellow guava, lemon guava, or apple guava is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Caribbean, Central America and South America.
What are the two lines about guava? ›
guava, (Psidium guajava), small tropical tree or shrub of the family Myrtaceae, cultivated for its edible fruits. Guava trees are native to tropical America and are grown in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. Guava fruits are processed into jams, jellies, and preserves and are common pastry fillings.
Is it OK to eat guava with worms? ›
Most medical experts are of the opinion that when a guava is heavily infested with worms or insect worms, you can eat guava without any problem. It adds to the protein already present in guava.
What is the most serious disease of guava? ›
Wilt (Fusarium sp) : A serious disease, the guava wilt, is sometimes encountered, especialy in alkaline soils. The symptoms are browning and wilting of the leaves, discolouration of the stem and death of the branches along one side. Sometimes the infection girdles the entire stem and the whole plant may wilt.
What is the bug inside the guava? ›
Moths and Caterpillars
Larvae of the guava fruit moth may cause considerable damage to guava by tunneling through the fruit. The larvae are whitish in color with a black head. They become pink as they approach maturity and attain a length of nearly ¼ inch.
Why we don t drink water after eating guava? ›
It can slow down digestion
Water should be avoided after eating fruits because this combination can interfere with the absorption and digestion process in the stomach, resulting in acidity. This is why some people feel queasy after eating fruit.
ISH NEWS | Avoid drinking water immediately after consuming fruits like melons, guava, bananas, and papaya to prevent digestion problems and discomf...
When should you not eat guava? ›
You should avoid guava if you are allergic, pregnant, breastfeeding or have the following health conditions: Gastrointestinal issues: You should avoid guava if you develop any unpleasant symptoms such as nausea or abdominal discomfort upon eating it.
Why do I feel hungry after eating guava? ›
The rapid reduction in blood sugar can trigger hunger. "Guava has a glycemic index ranking of 78 and is considered a high glycemic food. Guava ranks significantly higher than other fruits, as most fruits rank from 30 to 50.
Is guava good for your hair? ›
Guava, or more importantly guava leaves for hair are known widely to prevent hair fall and re-strengthen your weak hair. But why does guava work so well for your hair? The vitamin C content present in guava leaves can improve collagen activity aiding in hair growth and can also be used as a thickening agent.
Why does my stomach hurt after eating guava? ›
Sometimes people experience stomach pain after eating the fruit, it is primarily caused by guava seeds and one should remove them before consuming it. With this, guava will not induce pain in the stomach and will rather aid in your digestion.
What is the folklore of guava fruit? ›
There is an interesting story related to Guavas in Philippines mythology. It is said that Guava was once considered a forbidden fruit in Philippines mythology. A young boy wanted to feed a beggar and he had Guava, an inedible fruit.
What did the fruit symbolize? ›
Abundance and Fertility: Fruit often symbolizes abundance, fertility, and the bountifulness of nature. It represents the ability to bear fruit, both literally and metaphorically, indicating growth, prosperity, and the fulfillment of desires.
What does the fruit symbol mean? ›
Often it is a symbol of abundance, associated with goddesses of fertility, plenty, and the harvest. Sometimes, however, fruit represents earthly pleasures, overindulgence, and temptation. Specific kinds of fruit have acquired their own symbolic meanings in the myths and legends of different cultures.
What is unique about guava? ›
Guava is known for its unique taste, which is a delightful blend of sweetness and a hint of tartness along with an extremely pleasant fragrant aroma. The sweetness of guava is well-balanced, making it a versatile ingredient in sweet as well as savoury dishes.
