A guava is a tropical fruit that is found most often in tropical and subtropical areas, and is rarely grown in temperate climates. With the scientific name of Psidium guajava, this fruit is one of many similar species in the same genus, but the “apple guava” is the common form found in most markets around the world. They are roughly the size of apples, or slightly smaller, and some variations are more similar to plums in size and shape.
Many of you may have tasted this mouth-watering treat, or have at least seen or heard about it. Guava is very common in Asian and African countries, but is increasingly available in the western world, particularly as more of its health benefits are revealed. It is a somewhat round or pear-shaped seasonal fruit, and is light green, yellow, or maroon in colour on the outside when it is ripe. Guava also has white or maroon flesh and lots of small hard seeds enveloped in very soft, sweet pulp. It is eaten raw (ripe or semi-ripe) or in the form of jams and jellies. Here are some Amazing health benefits of this super fruit.
Weight loss
Guava is very helpful for those who want to lose weight without compromising their intake of proteins, vitamins and fibre. Guava is very high in roughage and rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals, but it has no cholesterol and a low number of digestible carbohydrates. It is a very filling snack and satisfies the appetite very easily. Guava, especially raw guava, also has far less sugar as compared to apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruit. Add a medium-sized guava to your lunch and you will not feel hungry again until the evening. Ironically, it can also help with weight gain in lean, thin people. This is probably due to its wealth of nutrients, which keep the metabolism regulated, and help to promote the proper absorption of nutrients.
Diabetes
An intake of guava can also help those patients who suffer from diabetes. The high level of dietary fibre in guava helps to regulate the absorption of sugar by the body, which decreases the chances of major spikes and drops in insulin and glucose in the body. Studies have shown that consuming guava can help prevent the appearance of type-2 diabetes.
Cancer Prevention
One of the most celebrated and important benefits of adding guava to your diet is, its ability to inhibit the growth and metastasis of cancerous cells. There have been numerous studies done in recent years on guava’s effects primarily on prostate cancer, breast cancer, and oral cancers. Guava leaf oil is extremely successful as an anti-proliferative substance, and has actually been shown to be more effective than some leading modern medicines in reducing cancerous growth. Guavas are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be widely successful in reducing prostate cancer risk. That same antioxidant has also been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, although further human trials need to be done.
Scurvy
Guava can outdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, in terms of its concentration of vitamin C. A deficiency of vitamin-C can cause scurvy, and proper intake of vitamin C is the only known remedy for that dangerous disease. In fact, guavas contain 5-times more vitamin C than oranges, which are often heralded as the absolute best source of that beneficial vitamin.
Thyroid Health
They are a good source for copper, which is an important part of regulating thyroid metabolism by helping to control hormone production and absorption. The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body for regulating hormones and organ system function, so guava can help balance your health in many ways.
Constipation
Guava is one of the richest sources of dietary fibre in terms of fruit. Its seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives. These two properties of guava help the formation of healthy bowel movements, and aid the body in retaining water and thoroughly cleaning your intestines and excretory system. It is said that constipation alone can lead to 72 different types of ailments, so any help with constipation is beneficial. Your total health is undeniably affected by proper digestion, and more importantly, proper excretion. Frequent consumption of guava can ensure both.
Brain Health
Another of the tremendous positive benefits of guavas is the presence of vitamin B3 and vitamin B6. B3 (also known as niacin) can increase blood flow and stimulates cognitive function. B6 is a great nutrient for brain and nerve function. Therefore, eating guava can help you increase brain function and sharpen your focus.
High blood pressure
Guava helps reduce cholesterol in the blood and prevents it from thickening, thereby maintaining the fluidity of blood and reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that food lacking fibre (such as refined flour) add to blood pressure, due to its quick conversion to sugar. Guava, being very rich in fibre and hypoglycaemic in nature, helps reduce blood pressure.
By: Umaru Maryam Hadejia
