Expensive fruits aren’t necessarily the healthiest. The modest guava packs in a host of goodness.
A study conducted by the National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad has found guava to be the healthiest fruit. This study, published in the journal ‘Food and Research International’, evaluated the natural antioxidant level in 14 fruits consumed in India. And guava, as per this study, contains it in the highest amounts.
The modest guava
Depending on the variety, a guava’s skin and seeds are typically, white or pink. While some people like it semi-ripe, when it’s crunchy yet soft, a few others prefer the fully ripe ones.
It is rich in antioxidants and fibre; in addition to containing high levels of pectin, making it a super-food in our current-day busy lives.
Health benefits of guava
Reduces risk of cancer This super fruit contains high levels of vitamin-C, a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells against damage from free radicals – which can lead to development of cancer, and thus guava’s help fight oxidants in the body, protecting it against cancer.
Good for diabetics Guava is a good source of fibre. And fibre offers protection against a wide range of diseases, one among them is diabetes. A high-fibre diet slows down the absorption of sugar in the body, benefitting diabetics as well as lowering the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.
Promotes good vision Vitamin-A is known to be really good for your eyesight. And this humble fruit is an extremely good source of this nutrient.
Facilitates utilisation of vital nutrients This fruit is a good source of manganese, an enzyme activator , which helps the body make use of key nutrients like biotin, ascorbic acid.
Keeps your brain healthy Guava is rich in vitamins B3 and B6, and the B group of vitamins play a critical role in brain function. While vitamin-B3 –- known as niacin -– promotes blood flow, stimulating brain function, vitamin-B6 – known as pyridoxine – is an important nutrient for brain and nerve function.
For happy skin Eating guavas regularly are a boon for your skin. The vitamin-E found in this fruit are super good for your skin.
Soothes nerves and muscles Magnesium aids relaxation of nerves and muscles, and guava being rich in magnesium facilitates it.
For a healthy thyroid gland Copper is another mineral which plays a role in thyroid metabolism, and considering guavas contain traces of this mineral, munching on them can promote a healthy thyroid gland.
Aids fertility Eating guavas supplies your body with folate, a mineral known for its fertility promoting properties.
BDST: 1727 HRS, APR 02, 2015
