Guava is a scrumptious fruit that is packed with lots of nutritional benefits. While guava seeds are the small, hard, inedible seeds found inside the flesh of a guava fruit.
They are typically oval-shaped and can range in size from less than 1mm to over 5mm, depending on the variety of guava. They are usually surrounded by a jelly-like flesh and are often encountered when eating a guava. Some people consider them to be a nuisance while others enjoy the crunch they provide.
However, most of us are fond of eating the flesh and discarding the seeds. Some believe the seeds can be dangerous when eaten, while others do so because they see others do so.
Is it safe to eat guava seeds?
Yes, it is safe to eat guava seeds. They are small, hard, and have a slightly bitter taste, but they are edible and nutritionally rich, containing protein, fiber, and minerals such as calcium and potassium.
However, some people may find them difficult to digest and may experience digestive discomfort after consuming large amounts of them. It’s always a good idea to consume guava seeds in moderation
If you are one of these persons that throw off guava seeds when eating fruits, you have to stop now because you are depriving your body of some essential nutrients it needs to enjoy. Let’s check out some health benefits of guava seeds.
Nutritional Composition of Guava Seeds
A 2014 study was done to determine the chemical composition, fatty acid profile, and bioactive compounds of guava seeds.
They found out that guava seeds contained micronutrients, with a high content of total dietary fiber (63.94 g/100g), protein (11.19 g/100g), iron (13.8 mg/100g), zinc (3.31 mg/100g), and reduced calorie content (182 kcal/100g). Their lipid profile showed a predominance of unsaturated fatty acids especially linoleic acid and oleic acid.
They also discovered significant amounts of bioactive compounds such as ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and insoluble dietary fiber.
7 Health Benefits of Guava Seeds
1. Antioxidant properties
Guava seeds contain phenolic compounds such as tannins and phytic acid, as well as flavonoids, which contributes to their antioxidant properties.
A 2018 study also stated that guava seeds also possessed antioxidant activities.
2. Might regulate blood pressure
Guava seeds are high in potassium and antioxidants that help to give your blood flow a quick boost. A stable blood flow is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure.
High blood pressure cannot be cured but can be managed. The nutrients from the guava seeds help maintain the blood flow in your body, which controls your BP.
A 12-week study was published in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), and it proved that eating guava seeds can reduce blood pressure.
After the study, 120 participants experienced a significant reduction in their blood pressure readings by eight to nine points after regularly eating ripe guava before meals for the study period.
3. May reduce constipationÂ
Guava seeds are rich in dietary fiber that helps in enhancing your digestive system functionality. In case of constipation, you can eat some guava fruits with the seeds and watch the miracle that will happen. It will immediately free up your guts.
4. Antimicrobial activities
In a study conducted in 2012, Pg-AMP1, a glycine-rich peptide obtained from guava seeds, exhibited antimicrobial activities, which as able to counteract bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses.Â
5. Might help to control diabetes
Guavas are very low in glycemic index and glycemic load, which makes them very good fruits for diabetic patients or those at risk of developing diabetes.
A 2020 study investigated the anti-diabetic potential of polyphenol extracts from guava leaves, seeds, and pulp with albino rats.
In the study, they found out that the polyphenols in guava seeds can improve diabetes parameters, making them useful in diabetes management.
6. Helps to maintain cholesterol
Due to the increase in sedentary lifestyle and consumption of fast food, they have been an increase in the number of people suffering from high cholesterol issue. High cholesterol can birth severe issues in the body, such as cardiovascular illnesses and terminal illnesses like diabetes.
Guava seeds are high in fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which help maintain the cholesterol level in the body.
According to a recent medical study conducted on rats, it was discovered that oral administration of guava seeds oil did not increase cholesterol and triglyceride levels in rat serum.Â
Hence, guava seeds may be useful in managing cholesterol levels.
7. Very nutritious
Guava seeds are packed with many powerful nutrients and essential amino acids. Therefore, consuming guava seeds can help fill your daily nutritional requirements.
How To Consume Guava Seeds?
There are different ways you can consume guava seeds. They are as follows:
- You can eat it along the flesh when consuming the fruit.
- You can blend the seeds with other fruits and make a smoothie.
- You can grate it in powdered form and add it to yogurt to make it healthier. You can consume the yogurt with food or in between meals.
- You can add it as toppings on your sandwiches.
- You can add it to your salad bowl to boost the taste and nutrition.
Conclusion
Guava seeds are nutritious and beneficial to the body. So next time, ensure you consume the whole fruit, including the seeds. Go for fresh guava fruits – avoid preserved or frozen ones, as their nutrients are incomplete.Â
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Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
