Packed with a myriad of hard, tiny seeds at the centre, guavas, popularly called amrood , are seasonal, tropical fruits that are widely sold in local Indian markets. Apart from their distinctive flavour and lovely intense aroma, guavas are also known for their nutrition and multiple health benefits. Here are top 10 you need to know.
1# Improves your immunity: Guavas are one of the richest sources ofvitamin C , containing four times the vitamin C content present in oranges. A single, medium-sized guava offers two times the daily requirement of vitamin C, a vitamin that is closely associated with improved immunity and protecting you against common infections and pathogens. The role of guavas in immunity is also attributed to its anti-inflammatory action and its ability to inhibit inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins released in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. [1] (Read: Immunity-boosting foods that are available in India and easy on the pocket! )2# Lowers risk of cancer : The anti-cancer or anti-tumour property of guavas has been linked to presence of compounds including lycopene, quercitin, vitamin C and various polyphenols present in them [1]. These compounds acts as potent antioxidants that neutralise free radicals generated in the body, which can trigger cancerous growth. There is strong evidence demonstrating the potential of guava extract in preventing cancer of the prostate, breast, skin, colon and lungs. (Read: Top 10 food habits to prevent cancer )3# Good for diabetics: The anti-diabetic effect of guavas has been mentioned long back in Chinese medicine. A study published in Am J Chin Med showed that 1 g/kg guava juice significantly reduced sugar levels in diabetic patients. The study suggested that guavas improve as well as prevent the development of diabetes . Apart from the insulin-like activity that guavas possess, their rich fibre content and low glycaemic index makes them extremely good for diabetic patients as well. While fibre content ensures the sugar levels are well regulated, low glycemic index inhibits a sudden spike in sugar levels [2].4# Has anti-ageing properties for your skin: Free radical damage to the skin can trigger wrinkle formation and early ageing. Guavas being rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A and antioxidants like lycopene and carotene helps protects your skin from wrinkles and fine lines, thus making you look younger. Old-age is a certainty in everyone's life, and eating a guava every day can at least prolong the process.
5# Improves heart health: A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertensio n showed that dietary adherence to guavas improves the sodium/potassium balance of the body, thereby regulating blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Besides, guavas also help lower the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol, which contribute to development of heart disease . They also improve the levels the good cholesterol (HDL) [3].6# Helps treat constipation : One guava fulfils about 12% of your daily recommended intake of fibre, making it extremely beneficial for your digestive health. Eating guavas daily can is rich in fibre which helps in clearing the blocked pathway and thus relieving constipation. (Read: Top 10 home remedies for constipation )7# Helps improve vision: Even though, guavas are not as rich in Vitamin A as carrots, they still are still a very good source of the nutrient. Vitamin A helps keep your eyes in good condition, and also helps improve your vision. Night blindness is one of the diseases associated with a Vitamin A deficiency.
8# Good for pregnant women: Guavas contain folic acid, or vitamin B-9, which is recommended for pregnant women since it can help in developing the baby's nervous system and protect the newborn from neurological disorders.
9# Helps you relax: Magnesium present in guavas helps in relaxing your nerves and muscles. In today's stressful times, consuming a guava to combat stress and relax is certainly a good idea. (Read: Feeling stressed? Try these natural remedies )10# Good for your brain: Brain is one of the major organs of our body, and keeping it healthy should be on our priority list regardless of how intelligent we consider ourselves. Guavas contain vitamin B3 and vitamin B6, also known as niacin and pyridoxine, which helps in improving blood circulation to the brain and relaxing your nerves.
11# Beats toothache : Guava leaves can be consumed as an excellent home remedy for toothache. They have a potent anti-inflammatory action and a powerful healing and antibacterial ability that fights infection and kills germs.All of these qualities make guava a super-fruit which you should certainly enjoy this winter season!
References:
Ravi K, Divyashree P. Psidium guajava: A review on its potential as an adjunct in treating periodontal disease. Pharmacognosy Reviews 2014;8(16):96-100. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.134233. Cheng JT, Yang RS. Hypoglycemic effect of guava juice in mice and human subjects. Am J Chin Med. 1983;11(1-4):74-6. PubMed PMID: 6660217. Singh RB, Rastogi SS, Singh NK, Ghosh S, Gupta S, Niaz MA. Can guava fruit intake decrease blood pressure and blood lipids? J Hum Hypertens. 1993 Feb;7(1):33-8. PubMed PMID: 8383769. 
No comments:
Post a Comment