But beyond its deliciousness, lies a gold mine of nutrients – guava juice. Often overshadowed by the popular orange or apple juice, guava juice deserves its moment in the spotlight.
This article dives deep into the guava juice including illuminating its nutritional content, health benefits, and some interesting trivia that might just surprise you.
Some Variteties of Guava Fruit
1. Apple Guava
This variety is large and round, resembling an apple. It has a mild taste with a fragrance similar to lemons.
2. White Indian Guava
This variety is medium-sized with thin skin, white flesh, and fewer seeds. The fruit has a sweet taste and is commonly used for direct consumption and juice-making.
3. Red Malaysian Guava
This variety is recognized by its red-colored leaves and dark pink or red flesh. It’s mildly sweet and has a unique flavor compared to other guavas.
Guava Juice: What’s in a Glass?
When you sip on a glass of guava juice, you are not just indulging in a tasty treat. You are imbibing a cocktail of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Packed with Vitamin C, it actually contains four times the amount found in oranges. Additionally, guava juice boasts a rich profile of antioxidants, dietary fiber, Vitamin A, and potassium.
Benefits: Why Should Guava Juice Be Your Go-To Drink?
1. Rich in Essential Nutrients
This juice boasts a plethora of vitamins and minerals. For instance, it is loaded with vitamin C, often exceeding the amount found in oranges. This vitamin is essential for maintaining the health of connective tissues, including collagen. Besides vitamin C, guava juice also provides substantial amounts of vitamin A, E, and B vitamins, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
2. Powerful Antioxidants
Beyond vitamins, guavas are packed with several antioxidants. These compounds combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress which is linked to premature aging and numerous chronic ailments.
3. Aids in Weight Loss
This juice without added sugars is a delightful, low-calorie beverage. Its fiber content offers satiety, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage or lose weight.
4. Skin Health and Radiance
The amalgamation of vitamins and antioxidants, like lycopene in pink guavas, is excellent for skin health. They help counteract damage from UV rays, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and maintain skin’s elasticity.
5. Regulating Blood Sugar Levels
Preliminary research has shown promising results regarding guava’s potential to regulate blood sugar. Both guava juice and guava leaf extract can be beneficial in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, especially vital for individuals with or at risk for diabetes.
Interesting Guava Juice Facts
- Guava Juice’s Historical Roots: Native to Central America, guavas were revered by ancient civilizations for their medicinal properties.
- World Record: In 2012, a town in Brazil created the world’s largest glass of guava juice, standing at over 10 feet tall!
How to Make the Perfect Guava Juice?
- Pick ripe guavas. The color should be bright and the fruit slightly soft to the touch.
- Wash and chop them into small pieces.
- Blend the pieces with a little water until smooth.
- Strain the juice to remove any seeds or rough pulp.
- Add a dash of lemon or mint for an added zing. Serve chilled!