Guava is full of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, copper, and manganese and has been used in traditional medicine for years due to its many benefits. While guava is very common in Asian countries, the fruit is increasingly becoming available in the western world as more of its health benefits are revealed.
Guava can be eaten raw or can be used in cooking as a single guava fruit contains about four times as much vitamin C as an orange. This popular fruit has a powerhouse of nutrients, which is why it has been hailed as one of the super fruits.
1. Improves complexion
Due to its strong antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals that damage the body, guava can help lessen wrinkled skin, dryness and a dull complexion. The vitamin C found in guava also stimulates the production of elastic and collagen that helps keep the skin firm and elastic, Natural News reported.
2. Helps control diabetes
Drinking guava leaf tea inhibits the absorption of maltose and sucrose to help control blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that eating guava can also help prevent the risk for type-2 diabetes.
3. Helps with weight loss
Without compromising the intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber, guava can help people lose weight since it contains far less sugar compared to other types of fruit. A medium-sized guava makes a very fulfilling snack and satisfies the appetite extremely easily, according to Organic Facts.
4. Improves eyesight
Guavas are packed with vitamin A, which is a popular booster for vision health. The super fruit can help slow down cataracts and macular degenerations and improve the overall health of the eyes.
5. Helps with constipation
Being one of the richest sources of dietary fiber in fruit, consuming guava helps the formation of healthy bowel movements. The fruit also helps the body retain water to thoroughly clean the intestine and the excretory system.
6. Helps prevent cancer
Guava leaves contain high quantities of the antioxidant lycopene, which can help fight breast, oral and prostate cancers by inhibiting the growth and metastasis of cancerous cells. The antioxidants also provide major lines of defense against the proliferation of free radicals in the body, which remains one of the main causes of cancer and heart diseases.
