Guava is small and round or oval shaped fruit that is ideally sliced for a snack or tossed into salads. Because of its health promoting qualities, guavas made it into the new category of superfoods.
What is Guava?
Guava is native to Caribbean where it has been a major crop for centuries. Guavas are members of the myrtle family. Just like other members of the myrtle family, guavas also have a calyx at the top. Depending on its type, the skin of a guava fruit is typically green before it reaches its maturity and later changes its color to yellow, maroon, or remains green when ripe. The fruit contains a large number of tiny, edible seeds at the center.
Health Benefits of Guava
Prevents the risk of Cancer
Guavas are naturally rich in vitamin C, providing about 628% of the recommended daily allowance. In fact, it has contains 4 times the amount of vitamin C in oranges. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that helps protect the cells from free radical damage that eventually leads to various chronic conditions.
Reduce Diabetes
Guavas have also shown to be very beneficial for diabetic people. It has high fiber content which is about 36% of the DV. Various studies have found that fiber is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of chronic illnesses including diabetes. Fiber aids in the absorption of sugar in the body, hence, lower the risk of type-2 diabetes.
Promotes Good Eyesight
Guavas are known source of vitamin A. This vitamin helps protect the surface of the eye and creates an effective barrier to bacteria and viruses, which reduces the risk of eye infections.
Supports Fertility
The number of fertility issues is dramatically increasing these days. It is good to know that guava supports fertility by providing the important B-vitamin, known as folate. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate that are often found in foods such as fruits, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. Folic acid helps aid in the brain development and prevents birth defects. Folic acid also shows a link on male fertility. Studies found that male who has high levels of folic acid were shown to lower the risk of sperm abnormalities by up to 30%.
Stabilizes Blood Pressure Level
Aside from the high levels of vitamin C, guava is also packed full of potassium as bananas. Potassium plays a vital role in stabilizing blood pressure while reversing the role of sodium in unbalancing normal blood pressure.
Maintains Thyroid Health
Copper is a mineral known to be beneficial for the human body. It is important in building strong tissue, maintaining blood volume, and producing energy in your cells. The human body doesn’t have enough copper in the body, also the processed food we regularly eat contains only small amount of it. Luckily, guava provides the daily requirement of this mineral.
Aids in the Absorption of Nutrients
Another important trace mineral is known as the manganese. This mineral is important in the utilization of other essential nutrients such as biotin, thiamine, and ascorbic acid. Guava provides an adequate amount of manganese.
Relaxes Nerves and Muscles
Magnesium is an essential mineral needed for a healthy mind and body. However, the body cannot make them, which is why we obtain it from food such as guava. Magnesium helps to relax the nerves and muscles.
Supports Healthy Brain
Guava contains the important nutrients for the brain such as vitamin B3 and B6. Vitamin B3 stimulates brain function and promotes blood flow while vitamin B6 is an important nutrient for the brain and nerve function.
Promotes Vibrant Skin
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects and repairs your skin. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage from occurring. Guava provides overflowing amount of vitamin E.
Conclusion
Although guava is a natural food, always remember to eat them in moderation. To fully reap the benefit of this superfood, stick to eating it in its natural form.
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