The Tasty Health Benefits of Guava

When you visit the produce stands these days, there are a mind boggling array of choices and an ever expanding display of superfruit and exotic offerings - each with its own unique taste and nutritional benefits. One tasty fruit to look for among the tempting array of offerings is the guava fruit. Not only is this fruit a delight to the senses, it also has some pretty powerful nutritional properties. What are the health benefits of guava fruit?

The Health Benefits of Guava: Its Rich in Carotenoids

Guava fruits come in a variety of different types - some with a green exterior in the case of the green apple guava - and others in shades of oranges and pinks. Always choose guavas with more orange or pink coloration since this is a sign of higher concentrations of carotenoids. Carotenoids - commonly found in carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes - are strong antioxidants that also help to boost the immune system. They also improve night vision and help to prevent macular degeneration of the eye. Most people dont get enough carotenoids in their diet and guava is one sweet way to do it.

The Health Benefits of Guava: More Vitamin C than an Orange

To boost vitamin C levels, most people reach for an orange; but they may be better off going for a guava. One guava has three to four times the vitamin C found in the Florida citrus fruit. Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidant vitamins and also helps to boost immunity - although it isnt a cure for the common cold as it was once thought to be. Vitamin C helps to boost collagen production so skin stays younger look, and even increases the absorption of iron from food. Its a vitamin with a lot of important functions -and the guava fruit has plenty of it.

The Health Benefits of Guava: Low Calorie and Fiber Rich

An average sized guava fruit has only fifty calories, yet its packed with fiber to keep you full longer. Its sweet taste is as satisfying as other sweets, so it makes a great dessert substitute. Dice it up and add it to plain yogurt or cottage cheese for a guilt-free, low calorie dessert. It tastes great in hot cereal too.

The Bottom Line?

Whats not to love about the guava fruit? Give this fleshy fruit a try the next time youre at the grocery store.

References:

http://www.nutritiondata.com