7 Health Benefits of Guava

Guava often referred to as the “queen of fruits” is a common super fruit cultivated and enjoyed in many tropical and subtropical regions offering high nutrients for our health. The most frequently eaten species referred to as “the guava” is the apple guava (Psidium guajava). Guava is typical Myrtoideae, with tough dark leaves that are opposite, simple, elliptic to orate and 5-15 centimetres long. The fruit guava has a pronounced and typical fragrance, similar to lemon rind. Guavas are rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C with moderate levels of folic acid. Having a generally broad, low calorie profile of essential nutrients, a single common guava fruit contains about four times the amount of vitamin C as an orange.
Guava leaves have also been found to contain both carotenoids and polyphenols like gallocatechin and leucocyanidine. As some of the phytochemicals produce the fruit skin and fresh color, guava that are red-orange tend to have more polyphenol and carotenoid content than yellow ones. Since the 1950s, guava particularly the leaves have been studied for their constituents, potential biological properties and the results gotten to far have been amazing.

Health Benefits of Guava

1. Preventing Cancer

Lycopene, quercetin, vitamin C and other polyphenols found in guava have been found to help prevent the metastasis of cancerous cells. According to results from recent studies, guava has been found to primarily prevent the risk of prostrate cancer, breast cancer and oral cancer. The abundant vitamin C in guava acts as an antioxidants which is helpful in boosting your immune system and more protection from free radicals. Cancer is frequently caused by free radicals, so providing the protection from them is the same as lowering the risk of cancer. Interestingly, some studies have also found that guava leave can also reduce the growth of cancerous cell and may be even more effective than medicine used in modern cancer treatment. The fiber in guava is also good for cleaning toxins from the colon, maintain its health and prevent colon cancer.

2. Treat Constipation

Guava has been found to have astringent properties that help treat a number of digestive disorder like diarrhoea and dysentery. Astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacteria properties, thus helping to cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines. Guava is very rich in dietary fiber compare to other fruits as one gram of guava contains 9 grams of fiber. Guava promotes better digestion of food, prevents constipation and also helps in reducing the amount of saturated fat that is absorbed by our body.

3. Improves Eyesight

Guava is rich in retinol or vitamin A that is responsible for good eyesight. Guava can help slow down the appearance of cataracts, macular degeneration and improve the overall health of the eyes. It helps protect the cells of your eyes and can also prevent deterioration of eyesight. Even though guavas are not rich in vitamin A as carrots, they are still a very good source of the nutrient which will help to improve your eyesight.

4. Lowers Risk of Diabetes

Results from studies on the glycemic effect of guava on blood glucose level showed a marked decrease in blood glucose level and indicated its possible usefulness in preventing diabetes mellitus, or adult –onset diabetes. The fiber content and low glycemic index of guava is good for controlling diabetes. Fiber can help your body absorb glucose so that the blood sugar level can be regulated. The vitamin C  content in guava can also manage diabetes as it keeps the body flushing regularly. People who are diabetic are usually obese; eating guava will help lose weight without adding fat and calories.

5. Losing Weight

You want to lose a few pounds? Eating guava is the super effective option you should consider. Eating guava will provide your body the required nutrients without adding too much carbohydrate while keeping your stomach full. Guava is helpful for losing weight and preventing obesity without compromising your intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber. Surprisingly, guava can also help skinny people to gain weight. This is probably due to its wealth of nutrients, which regulates the metabolism and promotes proper absorption of nutrients.

6. Reduces Blood Pressure

Guavas which are rich in fiber and contain no cholesterol improve the sodium and potassium balance of the body, thereby regulating blood pressure in people with hypertension. Guava help lower the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol, which contribute to the development of heart disease. Guava improves levels of the good cholesterol in our body. Studies have shown that food that lacks fiber adds to blood pressure. Guava, being very rich in fiber and hypoglycemic in nature, helps reduce blood pressure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7. Boast Brain Health

Guavas contain vitamin B3 and vitamin B6, also known as niacin and pyridoxine respectively which are both very appropriate for supporting brain's health. Vitamin B6 is required by your brain to improve its function. These vitamins can maintain the proper blood circulation to your brain resulting in relaxed nerves and sharpened focus.

Conclusion

Guava contains nutrients that helps to protect immune system, regulate blood pressure and lower risk of diabetes. It further curbs all kinds of illness, including cancer and diabetes. Its vitamin A content is five times that of an orange, and it also has stellar amounts of protein, fiber, and folate, and possible more vitamin C than any other fruit. Antioxidants and flavonoids also are in abundance in guavas. Eating too much of guava can cause diarrhea especially among pregnant women. Guava is best consumed in its natural form, in a kind of whole  fruit since it is still packed with the carried nutrients.