5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING GUAVA

Guavas  are oval in shape with light green or yellow skin and contain edible seeds.

They are amazingly rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. This remarkable nutrient content gives them many health benefits.

This article lists all the health benefits of guavas that are backed by scientific research.

1. Guava Extract and Guava Leaf Tea May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels

There are some evidence that guava can improve blood sugar control.

Several test-tube and animal studies found guava extract reduced blood sugar levels, improved long-term blood sugar control and reduced insulin resistance. 

This is good news for people with diabetes or those at risk.

A few studies involving humans have also shown impressive results.

One study of 19 people found that drinking guava leaf tea lowered blood sugar levels after a meal. The effects lasted for up to two hours 

2. Eating More Guavas May Help Keep Your Heart Healthy

Guavas may help boost heart health in a number of different ways.

Many scientists believe that the high levels of antioxidants and vitamins in guava may help protect the heart against damage from free radicals.

The higher levels of potassium and soluble fiber in guavas are also thought to contribute to improved heart health.

Eating guavas has also been linked to lower blood pressure, a decrease in “bad” LDL cholesterol and a rise in "good" HDL cholesterol. 

Since high blood pressure and high levels of LDL cholesterol are linked to higher risks of heart disease and stroke, adding moderate amounts of guava to your diet could lead to valuable benefits.

A 12-week study of 120 people found that eating ripe guava before meals caused an overall decrease in blood pressure by 8–9 points, a reduction in total cholesterol by 9.9% and an increase in “good” HDL cholesterol by 9%

Moderate consumption of guavas can have a positive effect on heart health by lowering blood pressure.

3. Guava Leaf Extract May Help Relieve Painful Symptoms of Menstruation

Many women experience dysmenorrhea, painful symptoms of menstruation such as stomach cramps.

However, there is some evidence that guava extract can actually reduce the pain intensity of menstrual cramps.

A study involving 197 women who experienced painful symptoms found that taking 6 mg of guava leaf extract daily resulted in reduced pain intensity. It appeared to be even more powerful than some painkillers.

Guava leaf extract is thought to have a “spasmolytic” effect on the uterus, meaning it can relieve spasms of smooth muscle, also known as cramps.

4. Eating More Guavas or Taking Guava Extract May Benefit the Digestive System

Guavas are an excellent source of dietary fiber 

Therefore, eating more guavas may help aid in healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation. 

Just one guava can provide 12% of your recommended daily intake of fiber.

As well as preventing or relieving constipation, guavas may reduce the intensity and duration of diarrhea.

Several studies have also shown that guava leaf extract is antimicrobial. This means it can disable harmful microbes in the gut that can cause diarrhea.

5. Guavas Are Weight Loss Friendly

Guavas are a weight loss friendly food.

With only 37 calories in one fruit and 12% of your recommended daily fiber intake, they are a filling, low-calorie snack.

Unlike some other low-calorie snacks, they are packed full of vitamins and minerals — so you aren’t losing out on important nutrients.

They taste great too. When guavas are ripe, they’re naturally sweet.