Health benefits of guava: Add this tropical fruit to your daily diet to lose weight, improve eyesight, boost immunity

Guava is an ideal fruit for diabetics due to its high fiber content and low glycemic index. The fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes, while the low glycemic index ensures a gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream. (Image: Canva)

Guava, a tropical fruit known for its sweet and tangy flavour, is a nutritional powerhouse with multiple health benefits. This fruit is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins C and A, dietary fibre, potassium, and antioxidants. Additionally, guava leaves have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties. Whether consumed fresh, juiced, or as part of culinary dishes, guava is a versatile fruit that provides significant health advantages, making it a worthy addition to any diet.

Here are some reasons to include more guava in your diet

Boosts immunity: Guava is a powerhouse of vitamin C, containing twice as much as oranges. Vitamin C is crucial for strengthening the immune system and protecting against infections. It also enhances iron absorption, which is vital for maintaining high immunity levels and overall health, says Dr Ranjeet Munjal from Apollo Healthcare limited.

Diabetic-friendly: Guava is an ideal fruit for diabetics due to its high fibre content and low glycemic index. The fibre helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes, while the low glycemic index ensures a gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream. Studies have shown that guava leaf extracts can improve blood sugar control, making guava an excellent choice for managing diabetes.

Promotes heart health: Rich in potassium and sodium, guava helps regulate blood pressure, particularly in those with hypertension. Consuming guava can lower blood pressure, reduce total cholesterol, and increase good HDL cholesterol, all contributing to a healthier heart. Guava leaf extracts also support heart health by decreasing blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels, says Dr Munjal.

Aids weight loss: Guava is low in calories yet high in fibre, making it a filling snack that can help regulate metabolism and promote weight loss. The fibre content ensures prolonged satiety, reducing overall calorie intake. Replacing high-calorie snacks with guava can aid in weight management.

Enhances brain function: Guava is rich in vitamins B6 and B3, also known as pyridoxine and niacin, which improve blood circulation to the brain, relax nerves, and enhance cognitive function. These vitamins are essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and promoting mental clarity.

Promotes healthy skin: Guava is packed with antioxidants like carotene, lycopene, and vitamins A and C, which help protect the skin from damage, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and promote a youthful complexion. The fruit's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also help treat various skin conditions, leaving the skin radiant and healthy.

Supports reproductive health: Guava is rich in vitamin C and folate, essential nutrients for fetal development during pregnancy. Folate helps prevent neural tube defects, while vitamin C promotes fetal growth. Including guava in a prenatal diet can support the healthy development of the baby.

Reduces menstrual pain: For women experiencing painful menstrual cramps, guava leaf extract can be beneficial. Studies have shown that taking guava leaf extract daily can significantly reduce the intensity of menstrual pain, sometimes more effectively than some painkillers.

Improves vision: Guava is beneficial for eye health due to its high vitamin A content. This vitamin helps prevent the deterioration of eyesight and protects against conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. Regular consumption of guava can contribute to maintaining good vision and overall eye health.