Guava Fruit
Information about the Guava Fruit
Doctors believe that individuals should derive as many vitamins and nutrients as possible from their diets and, with a superfruit like the guava fruit so readily available, that is not only possible but enjoyable as well.
Guava fruit are delicious product of the guava tree, which is native to Mexico and Central America, among other locations. Humans, birds and animals enjoy the sweet flavor of this fruit, with birds and mammals being main propagators of young trees through the natural elimination of the seeds. In most areas, the guava is used mainly as an ingredient for desserts; however, the red guava is used as a tomato substitute for main dishes and sauces in many areas. It becomes a flavorful juice that is highly prized in several countries, and is a popular jelly and jam fruit due to its content of natural pectin.
The guava fruit is an incredible powerhouse of nutrients, depending on the species of the fruit. The apple guava, which is the most familiar to most, is considered a superfruit, while the strawberry guava contains considerably less vitamins while still being a high contender. Vitamin A and C rich, the apple guava has over 4 times the amount of vitamin C than an orange. Additional nutrients in the guava fruit include potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. The fruit is even high in dietary fiber, and the edible seeds great sources of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. All of this goodness, plus low caloric value, packed within the 1” to 4” oval shaped skin, which is also edible.
Most of the guava fruit seen in the supermarkets are products of international trade, although just slightly less than 500 acres of guava trees are located on a plantation in Hawaii. Fruit can also be produced and harvested in the subtropical regions of Texas and Florida.
When choosing supermarket guava fruit, the best quality fruit will be firm to the touch and free of blemishes. A fruity scent will be evident on ripe guavas, and they should not be sticky. Guavas are fruits that will continue to ripen after removal from the tree, so purchasing slightly unripe fruit will ensure they will keep for several days. Your fruit should not be refrigerated unless it has reached an overripe stage. All parts of the guava are edible; the vitamin C rich skin, the nutrient packed flesh and the omega rich seeds all add to the total flavor of the fruit.
Guava fruit is a great addition to anyone’s dietary needs, whether eaten raw or included in recipes of pies, cakes, jellies or juices. Sweet, juicy and flavorful, eating guava will not only be a taste bud delight, but also a healthy benefit as a natural means of obtaining necessary vitamins and nutrients.