What are the functions and effects of guava?
Generally speaking, guava, as a nutrient-rich fruit, offers various health benefits and functions, mainly including stimulating appetite, promoting bowel movement, nourishing blood, detoxifying, improving complexion, and lowering blood sugar levels. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Stimulates Appetite
Guava contains several kinds of organic acids, which can promote gastric juice secretion and enhance digestive function, thus helping to stimulate appetite.
2. Promotes Bowel Movement
Guava is rich in dietary fiber, a component that can stimulate intestinal peristalsis, aid digestion and defecation, and effectively relieve constipation. Meanwhile, components like pectin in guava also help cleanse the intestines and promote intestinal health.
3. Nourishes Blood and Strengthens the Body
Guava is rich in iron and protein; iron is an essential nutrient for blood production. Consuming guava in moderation can help supplement iron, nourish the blood, and improve symptoms of anemia.
4. Detoxifies and Beautifies the Skin
Nutrients in guava such as vitamin C and dietary fiber can accelerate the body's metabolism, promote the elimination of toxins, and have the effect of detoxification and beautifying the complexion. At the same time, antioxidants in guava can also remove free radicals in the body, delay aging, and protect cellular health.
5. Lowers Blood Sugar
The dietary fiber in guava can delay the absorption of carbohydrates, preventing rapid increases in blood sugar levels. When consuming foods containing guava, dietary fiber forms a viscous substance in the intestines, slowing the rate at which sugars enter the bloodstream, thereby resulting in a more gradual rise in blood sugar. For individuals with diabetes or elevated blood sugar levels, guava is a relatively ideal fruit that can serve as an auxiliary food for regulating blood sugar levels, but it cannot replace medical treatment.
However, note that guava should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption may cause heatiness, constipation, and other issues. Individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat or chronic constipation should consume it cautiously. Additionally, those allergic to guava should avoid consuming it.