Guava is very common in Asian countries, but it is increasingly available in the western world, especially as its health benefits are revealed. The fruit is round or pear- shaped with light green, yellow or brown skin and white or brown flesh that contains many small, hard edible seeds. It is sweet when ripe with a sweet, musky aroma and a creamy texture. Besides its distinctive flavor and fragrance, guava is actually a super fruit due to its many health- promoting qualities. Besides the fruits, the bark and leaves of guava trees also offer many health benefits.

What makes guava special is that the protection of the fruit does not require the excessive use of chemical pesticides as in the case of grapes, apples and other so- called " exotic" fruits. It is one of the least chemically treated and pulverized fruits. Here are some of the surprising and brilliant health benefits of guava.

1. Controls diabetes Chinese medicine has used guava for the treatment of diabetes for years. The high fiber content and low glycemic index of guava is extremely beneficial for people with diabetes. While fiber helps regulate sugar levels, the low glycemic index prevents sudden surges in sugar levels. Eating 1 to 2 guavas without the skin can be helpful in maintaining your blood sugar levels.

2. Improves your immunity Due to its high vitamin C content, guava plays an important role in improving your immunity. Plus, guava' s anti- inflammatory action and ability to inhibit inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins help keep you disease- free. Eat 1 guava per day to develop resistance to common illnesses like coughs, colds and flu. You can also enjoy guava in smoothies or salads, or drink a cup of guava leaf tea every day.

3. Improves heart health According to a old discoveries, regular consumption of guava fruit can help lower blood pressure and blood lipids. This is due to its higher content of potassium, vitamin C and soluble fiber. Potassium helps maintain a regular heartbeat and control high blood pressure, while vitamin C keeps small blood vessels healthy. Plus, the lycopene found in pink- fleshed guava helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people who regularly consume this fruit.

4. Helps lose weight Guava is very useful for those who want to lose weight. Guava, especially raw guava, contains much less sugar than apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruits. Add a medium- sized guava to your lunch and you won' t be hungry until evening. This is probably due to its richness in nutrients, which keeps the metabolism regulated and helps promote good absorption of nutrients.

5. Improves eyesight Guavas are a great source of vitamin A, which is well known as a visual health booster. It can help slow the onset of cataracts, macular degeneration, and general eye health. It can not only prevent the deterioration of eyesight, but even an improvement in eyesight once it starts to deteriorate.

6. Improves oral health The anti- plaque properties of guava leaves are effective in preventing and treating oral problems.

Herbalists recommend the use of tender guava leaves (in paste form) to maintain oral hygiene. The leaves have anti- inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation of the gums and leave your breath fresh and clean.

7. Reduces the risk of cancer The anti- cancer or anti- tumor properties of guava come from compounds like lycopene, quercetin, vitamin C and various polyphenols present in it. These compounds act as powerful antioxidants which help neutralize damage caused by free radicals in the body which can lead to cancer. Researchers concluded that guava extract may help shrink prostate tumors. In fact, regular consumption of guava extract can help reduce the incidence of prostate cancer in men. Regular consumption of guava can also help prevent other types of cancer, including cancer of the breast, mouth, skin, stomach, colon, and lung.

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