StayWell Guam Inc.

Did you know that the Guava is native to Central America and packed full of great health benefits? Abas as is locally known in the Marianas Islands with more than 25 different varieties found throughout the world. For those of us here in the islands you may be more familiar with the red-pink and white fleshed guava varieties that can be found sometimes right off the side of the road. However, one of the greatest things about the Guava is that almost every part of the plant can be used for food and are amazingly rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These qualities of the guava make this wonderfully pink fruit a great addition to your daily diet.

Pink Sugar

Some evidence suggests that Guava leaf extract especially when ingested as a tea can have a positive impact on your blood sugar levels. This evidence rooted in the study of traditional East Asian medicine where Guava leaf extract has been historically used to treat symptoms of diabetes. Typically, Guava leaf tea would be served after a meal to help reduce blood sugar levels by some 10% or more. This can be especially beneficial for those who look to reduce insulin resistance in their system.

Pink Hearts

Guava fruit’s high fiber content puts this fruit up on the same level as other high fiber foods that are known to help in reducing cholesterol levels. One 12-week study found that including guava in the diet of 120 patients with hypertension helped to improve good and bad cholesterol levels which in turn had a positive impact on blood pressure.

Pink Dot

Evidence from the study of medicinal use of guava leaves in rural African communities found that Guava leaf extract had a positive impact on menstrual pains or dysmenorrhea. Within these communities, guava leaf tea would be used to help manage, control, and treat symptoms of dysmenorrhea through the flavonoids and terpenoids found in guava leaf extract. These flavonoids and terpenoids are associated with antispasmodic effects and inhibition of inflammation.

Pink Immunity

Guavas are rich in Vitamin C which makes them a great way to get your daily dose of this important nutrient which is associated with a strong immune system. Guavas in fact are more nutrient rich with Vitamin C than are oranges which half only half the amount of Vitamin C.

Pink Skin

The wide range of vitamins and antioxidants found in the guava fruit and plant is also associated with healthier skin. The same antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of guava leaf extract that are beneficial for the internal organs can also go a long way in improving the condition of your skin when applied topically. In addition, the guava’s antimicrobial properties have been found to be effective in fighting off the same bacteria known to cause acne.

Think Pink

Whether you’ve been eating guavas your entire life or this is your first time ever hearing about it, the facts are in and guava is definitely a game changer when it comes to developing a healthier diet. Whatever your long-term health goals are, working more high fiber foods that are rich with vitamins and nutrients is an important part of a healthy diet. What makes guava just a little more special for us here in the islands is that we are blessed with the perfect climate to grow and enjoy these super fruits year-round. Guava is certainly abundant in the Marianas which gives us all the more reason to add this accessible and powerful healthy food to our daily diet and make an impact on our health outcomes. So, the next time you’re stumped on how you can mix it up at the dinner table or when you’re craving for a sweet treat “Think Pink” and reach for a guava – which is likely just in your backyard — and rest easy knowing you’ve done your body right.