It's Fall Again: The Magical Benefits of Guava

One of the juiciest and most fragrant fruits is the guava. Anyone walking near guava orchards during harvest season will find its scent impossible to ignore. The aroma spreads throughout the area, but not everyone enjoys it—some adore it, while others find it overwhelming.

Guava is rich in numerous health benefits, most notably its exceptionally high vitamin C content. A single fruit contains approximately three times the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. It is also very rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, particularly night vision. Additionally, this vitamin supports various body membranes, which can help with phlegm and runny nose issues. Guava is very high in potassium, along with many other vitamins and minerals, and is extremely rich in antioxidants.

Guava contains a high amount of lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes and watermelons, in even greater quantities than in either of those fruits. Lycopene is known for its ability to fight prostate cancer. Therefore, individuals who suffer from prostate cancer, are at risk for it, or have an enlarged prostate may benefit from eating guava. It also contains other antioxidants from the carotenoid family, such as beta-carotene, which is crucial for maintaining eye health.

Now, I would like to address some of guava’s unique health benefits. Diabetics are often warned against eating fruits due to their sugar content. However, guava stands out as a flavorful fruit with many health advantages, and most diabetics can consume it because of its low glycemic index. The conversion rate of sugar in the fruit to glucose is low, thanks to its particularly high dietary fiber content. Diabetics who do not consume low–glycemic index foods may face significant health risks over time, including obesity, high blood pressure, and imbalanced cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Nevertheless, diabetics choosing to eat guava should still monitor their blood sugar levels as a precaution.

It is also worth noting that a guava leaf infusion can help balance blood sugar levels. The fruit’s high dietary fiber content affects bowel movements and helps relieve constipation. Guava often attracts worms, so it should be inspected carefully before eating. Any soft spots should be cut away and checked thoroughly, as the worms are similar in color to the fruit and can be difficult to detect. Be sure to also check around the seeds.

Eliyahu Shechter is an iridologist and naturopath