5 health benefits of guava

According to WebMD, a single guava contains 37 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, 1 milligram of sodium, 8 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, 5 grams of sugar, and 1 gram of protein, and is free from cholesterol.

It also boasts more than twice the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, along with a wealth of other vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamin A, and potassium.

This rich nutritional profile contributes to the fruit’s numerous health benefits:

1. Boosting digestive health

Guava is highly regarded for its fiber content, with just one fruit providing 12% of the recommended daily fiber intake, according to Healthline. Fiber is essential for digestion, helping to regulate bowel movements and alleviate symptoms of both diarrhea and constipation.

Sliced guavas. Illustration photo by Pexels

2. Enhancing the immune system

A single guava offers roughly double the Reference Daily Intake of vitamin C, nearly twice that found in an orange. Research has demonstrated that vitamin C can shorten the duration of colds and fight off harmful bacteria, thus boosting the body’s infection-fighting capabilities.

3. Improving skin health

Guava is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that can greatly benefit your skin. The antioxidants found in the fruit help shield the skin from damage, potentially slowing the aging process and helping to prevent wrinkles.

4. Supporting weight loss

Each guava contains only 37 calories and fulfills 12% of your daily fiber requirement, making it a satisfying, low-calorie snack. Unlike many other low-calorie options, guava is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring you don’t miss out on important nutrients.

5. Enhancing heart health

Research suggests that the abundant antioxidants and vitamins in guava are beneficial for heart health.

A 12-week study involving 120 individuals, published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine, showed that consuming ripe guava before meals led to a significant reduction in blood pressure by 8-9 points, decreased total cholesterol by 9.9%, and increased "good" HDL cholesterol by 8%.