16 Amazing Guava Fruit Benefits: Guava Leaf Uses, Nutrition & Benefits

We all know how fruits can contribute magically to our lives. From a very tender age, children are encouraged to eat all kinds of fruits so that their developing immune system can extract and benefit from different nutrients. Of course, it is a no brainer that all fruits are good for the human immune system in one or the other way, some are richer than others and one such fruit is Guava.

With a wonkily roundish shape, this green fruit is a powerhouse of various rich nutrients that are beneficial for us. Speaking of beneficial nutrients, let’s take a look at the list of health benefits this Central American delight has on offer.

When it comes to discussing the topic of the benefits of guava, no one can deny that due to its healthfulness, it is recommended for consumption to patients suffering from a mild to significant ailment. It can help strengthen the human body from within thereby fortifying the immune system.

It is said that guava helps people with constipation issues. Additionally, it is claimed that the fruit can also help people suffering from serious health conditions, including diabetes, heart issues, cancer to mention a few. But before diving into that, let us know the nutritional content of it.

Nutritional values of guava

Guava is an omnium gatherum of antioxidants. Interestingly, it is believed to be the queen of all fruits as it brings to us numerous medicinal properties.

For your easy understanding, here is a specific nutritional value per 100 grams of guava -

2.6 grams of Proteins

228.3 mg of Vitamin C

1 gram of Fats

2 mg of Sodium

417 mg of Potassium

14 grams of Carbohydrates

5% of Magnesium

1% of Iron

5% of Vitamin B6

Source: usda.gov

Where is guava popular in India?

The popularity of any fruit can be determined by taking into account its cultivation as well as commercial zones. For guava, it is Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where the fruit is very popular with high consumption. This is because of the massive production that takes place in these states every year.

As per the latest data, Uttar Pradesh produces more than 900 metric tons of guava per annum, topping the list. Bihar produces approximately 400 metric tons of guava per annum.

How guava boosts immunity

Guava contributes to your immunity through its Vitamin C content. It is claimed that the fruit has double the amount of Vitamin C present in it compared to oranges. One guava’s Vitamin C content can be enough to upgrade your immunity per day.

Vitamin C, in general, is known for its immunity-boosting power. It works on a cellular level to protect the immunity system from infections and inflammation. Being an antioxidant, it creates a shield for your immunity system by fighting the free radicals present in the body.

How guava lowers the risk of cancer

Diseases like cancer are dealt wonderfully with fruits having a significant number of antioxidants. Guava benefits cancer patients through its numerous antioxidants. It is a fruit that not only has one antioxidant but multiple of them. This includes Vitamin C, Quercetin, Lycopene, and others. All these antioxidants combine to prevent the development of cancerous cells in the body. They prevent their growth and neutralise the infections.

Guava is considered effective for cancers like breast cancer and prostate cancer. It inhibits the growth of the cancer cells present in them.

How guava keeps the heart, healthy

Guavas have good amounts of sodium and potassium. These nutrients are well-known for balancing the blood pressure levels in the body. They not only regulate the pressure levels but also enhance cholesterol levels while eliminating the bad ones. It is found that guava benefits in increasing good cholesterol levels by 8 per cent if eaten ripe before having meals.

Additionally, it is also claimed that patients suffering from hypertension may find some relief with guava consumption every day.

How guava is diabetes-friendly

Some of the most common lifestyle diseases today include diabetes. Many fruits help diabetic patients, and guava is one of them. It is known for improving and controlling blood sugar levels in the body. It also regulates the level of glucose present in the body while providing a good amount of fibre to it. This is why people consider guava good for diabetes.

Another reason to eat them if you’re at risk of diabetes or dealing with it is that the fruit is low in glycaemic index. This means that it affects glucose levels in a friendly manner.

How guava treats constipation

Constipation is directly linked with digestion. An unhealthy digestive system can result in constipation. In such scenarios, what makes a digestive system healthy is the amount of fibre intake. A good amount of fibre intake can ease constipation very well. Guava is a fruit that is filled with fibre. Therefore, it helps in digestion and controls constipation.

Other health benefits of guava

Above are just some of the countless benefits of guava. The fruit is healthy in more than one way. It can help you deal with skin problems ensuring continued skin glow. Being vitamin-rich, the fruit also helps in hair growth. This is why it is regarded as a versatile fruit.

Apart from these, people who are susceptible to cold, cough, or flu can also benefit highly from the fruit. If you’re into fitness, then the good news is that it helps in losing weight to a great extent. Due to its low number of calories, guava can be your best friend on the fitness journey.

Lastly, guavas can ease menstrual cramps and pain. Therefore, women dealing with painful menstrual symptoms can find relief through the consumption of this fruit.

Guava fruit and leaves: Which are more beneficial for health

Depending upon the purpose, both guava fruit and leaf can be beneficial. Both of them can serve equally well. Application of a paste of guava leaves improves hair growth and resolves various hair related problems, while consumption of the fruit can mainly help with hair growth.

When infused in tea, guava leaves' benefits can include skin enhancement, dengue fever, diarrhoea, and sperm production. It also supports digestion. On the other hand, guava fruit benefits can be the same on a deeper level. The reason behind this is that the fruit version has a higher number of nutrients. Based on the intensity of your problem, use either of them effectively.

Different ways to consume guava

While there are several ways in which one can eat guava, the most effective is to simply rinse it well and consume it. The outer layer of the fruit is extremely rich in Vitamin C which has endless benefits. Along with that, the edible seeds of the fruit have their advantages. They are full of fibre, antioxidants, and potassium. All of them combine to enrich your experience of guava.

Other ways to eat the fruit can be cutting it into slices and using them in various recipes, such as smoothies, juice, and even salads. Choose your favourite way.

Conclusion

Guava is a dynamic fruit. With its countless benefits, one can enjoy good health effects. The fruit not only aids outer relief and enhancement but also supports well-being and energy levels. It helps in fighting some of the major diseases like cancer and diabetes. It also helps to lower the bad cholesterol levels while improving the good ones. Additionally, the leaves of the fruit can prove highly effective as well.

FAQs

1. How many calories does guava have?

A. Calories in guava can differ per serving. One hundred grams can have 60 to 70 calories in guava.

2. Which is the best way to eat guava?

A. The best way to eat guava is simply after rinsing it off with water. It is because every nutrient stays in it just as it is. Other ways may not let you extract the most out of its goodness.

3. Is guava good for diabetes?

Yes, guavas are good for type 2 diabetes.