If you live in the United States or in many other Western countries, it is likely that you have not heard of the guava fruit health benefits that are packaged inside this exotic but sweet and delectable treat. In fact, chances are you probably haven’t even heard of the guava. You may have seen it as you walked through the fruit section of your local supermarket, but there’s a good chance you haven’t eaten guava fruit much less have knowledge of the health benefits that it has to offer.

This post, then, is specifically written for you. If you are open to expanding your list of favorite fruits and excited about delicious fruit options that pack a lot of vitamins, minerals and their corresponding benefits, then the guava fruit might just be the fruit that you are looking for.

Here are some of the nutritional facts about the guava and the corresponding benefits that these nutrients entail.

•High vitamin C content - Technically, the guava fruit is classified as a citrus fruit although its insides bear little resemblance to many of the citrus fruits that we know such as oranges and lemons. Still, its high vitamin C content is one of the things it closely shares with the citrus family. A medium-sized guava has about 380 milligrams of vitamin C which when eaten performs a variety of roles that leads to a plethora of health benefits. Vitamin C in the body helps boost the immune system protecting you against illnesses, and is a powerful antioxidant which actively seeks out pathogens to reduce your risk for infections by virus and bacteria.

•High fiber content.- Another trait that the guava fruit shares with the citrus family is that it has high fiber content. Of the many guava fruit health benefits, this is often the least appreciated because many do not consider this fruit to be particularly rich in fiber. In truth, its fiber content rivals many of the more well-known fruits in the market and can help improve digestion by sweeping away the accumulated toxins in the lower intestines. This is critical towards the prevention of potentially fatal conditions like colon cancer. Fiber is also an excellent natural appetite suppressant because it makes your stomach feel full. It also aids in the absorption of fat and cholesterol preventing it from going into your bloodstream. A regular-sized guava carries the equivalent of 36% of an adult’s daily dietary fiber intake.

•Antioxidants - On top of Vitamin C, guava fruit health benefits are also beefed up by its varied antioxidant content which includes polyphenols and carotenoids. These boost the immune system and seek out aggressive free radicals to neutralize them before they can damage cells in your body. Studies have shown that the guava has a positive impact in lowering one’s risk for breast and skin cancers precisely because of its high antioxidant content.

Guava fruit health benefits only serve to emphasize that there are many other fruits beyond your better known ones that can help you become healthier. Try the guava and embrace its readily available benefits while also widening your palate and enjoying all the goodness that an exotic citrus fruit has to offer.