Health benefits of Guava

Guava (Psidium guajava) is a tropical fruit that is oval and originated from Central America and Mexico. It is the fourth most significant fruit after mango, banana and citrus fruits. Later, guava is harvested across Asia and predominantly on the Indian subcontinent. There are around 30 varieties of Guava in India, However white guava and pink guava are the most commonly cultivated varieties. The guava is a tiny 5 petal, white flower with numerous stamens before becoming a fruit. The appearance of guava is greenish-yellow on the outside with white or pink flesh inside and the flesh is loaded with seeds.Economic Importance

Guava fruit is nutritious and has huge health benefits compared to other fruits. Knowing its nutritional values, guava is gaining popularity in the various food processing industries. Since Guavas are rich sources of Vitamins C, Calcium, and Pectins, the fruit is used in the manufacturing of processed foods like jellies, jams and fruit cheese, and nectars. Since pink guava puree has a pleasant taste, aroma and attractive colour the puree is used in cakes, sauces, desserts, toppings and puddings.

Since the fruit pulp industry is expected to grow in the coming years, the demand for fresh juices and drinks has increased in the past few years. Guava Pulp is primarily used in the manufacturing of beverages like smoothies, fruit drinks, cocktails and other guava based drinks. Guava pulp is also a key ingredient in the dairy industry and used in the manufacturing of Ice creams, guava flavoured yoghurts, and milkshakes.

As per the recent survey, the National Institute of nutrition funded by ICMR conducted a study on 14 fresh fruits and their antioxidant activities. As a result of this study, surprisingly it is found that guavas have the highest concentration of antioxidant levels followed by mango, pomegranate and custard apple. Antioxidants are molecules that control the levels of disease-causing free radicals in your body. Antioxidants protect against cell damage that prevents your skin from ageing and reduce the risk of cancer.

This study is a surprise because we tend to believe that expensive fruits have a rich source of nutrition. Guavas are relatively cheaper compared to the other fruits and have the richest source of nutrition.

• Vitamin C along with Vitamin A and E are powerful antioxidants. One guava fruit contains 125 mg of vitamin C which is more than you need to strengthen your immune system.
• Guava has 5 times more vitamin compared to an orange. Guava contains 212mg per 100gm of guava, whereas orange contains only 40mg per 100gms.
• Some studies suggest that consuming guava juice or pulp has a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health. Guava pulp also helps platelets clump together which is important for blood health.
• Consuming Organic pink guava puree and organic white guava puree can help in weight loss because it is low in calories, low in fat and rich in fibre.
• Guava is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.