Guava: Benefits, Side-Effects Of The Fruit; Expert Shares 5 Ways To Add It To Your Diet

Native to Central America, Guava is cultivated throughout the year in India, and its peak season varies from August to December. In the winter season, people prefer to eat it with a sprinkle of salt or chat masala when they are soaking in the warm heat of the sun.

The pear-shaped fruit flaunts green and yellow skin and is considered good for your health. It has a sweet taste with citrus notes. Loaded with essential nutrients, the fruit has many benefits but also possesses health risks.

We spoke to Abhilasha V, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, to understand the benefits and side effects of the fruit so that you do not overdo it. We also asked her to share a few ways to add to your diet so that it fulfills the body’s requirement for the essential nutrients.

What Are The 10 Benefits Of Guava?

The nutritionist said, “Guava is considered a healthy addition to a balanced diet and valued for its potential benefits.” Here are a few ways the fruit is advantageous for your body,

• Guava is rich in antioxidants that help the body fight free radicals and reduce the risks of chronic diseases.
• It comprises a high amount of dietary fibre that prevents constipation and aids in digestion.
• The fruit is rich in vitamin C, which gives a boost to the immune system and equips the body to fight infections.
• It comprises high levels of soluble fibre and potassium that help to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• The nutritionist added that guava contains vitamins B6 and B3 which are associated with boosting cognitive function of the brain.
• Since the fruit is low in calories, it is considered one of the best options for people who are cautious about putting on weight.
• This fruit is also known to reduce inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Guavas are rich in vitamin A which is an essential nutrient for eyes and prevents age-related muscular degeneration.
• The fruit is known to promote collagen synthesis which prevents premature ageing and improves elasticity of the skin.
• It is a good choice for diabetic people because it helps to control the blood sugar levels in the blood.

Does Guava Have Any Side Effects?

The nutritionist shared that guava has a few side effects for some people, and therefore, it is essential to be wary of the amount of consumption. Here are a few ways the fruit can be disadvantageous for the body,

• If you are on medication, you must consult with your doctor about consuming the fruits to ensure it does not affect the absorption of the medicines.
• Though guavas have high dietary fibre content, you should consume them in moderation because too much of the fruit can lead to gas, bloating, stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
• High potassium in the fruit is not good for people struggling with kidney issues.
• Though it is rare, guavas can cause allergic reactions, including hives, itching, and swelling.
• People who are struggling with kidney stones should not eat guavas because the fruit contains oxalate compounds.
• The fruit contains glycemic index in moderation, therefore, diabetic (Changing Order Of The Meal Can Help Diabetic People) people should consume it in small amounts.
• Like other fruits, guavas can also contain the pesticide residue. Therefore, the nutritionist suggested eating them after washing and peeling off the skin.

What Is The Best Way To Eat Guava?

Nutritionists shared a couple of ways in which one can add guavas to their diet,

• Make a glass of guava smoothie
• Enjoy the fruit as a snack or add to it fruit chaat
• Make salad using guavas, coriander (Grow Coriander At Home) leaves, tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and dressing
• Eat guava jam with slices of bread
• Add guava to dessert recipes along with other fruits
• Make guava chutney
• Drink the juice of guava

Anything that you consume in moderation can benefit your body, but if you overdo it, the side effects can harm your health. Therefore, you must always speak to a dietician, nutritionist, or physician before adding any element to your diet.