Eating Guavas During Pregnancy – Is It Safe?

If you are pregnant, your diet must have changed for the good. Your doctor must have suggested that you increase your intake of fruits, veggies, dry fruits and nuts, and other healthy foods during pregnancy for the proper growth and development of your baby. You must have started making healthier choices, but not everything that is healthy otherwise is safe for consumption during pregnancy. In this article, we will tell you whether or not you can consume the very nutritious fruit guava during pregnancy. Many people believe that eating guavas increases chances of appendicitis in a pregnant woman. However, there is no medical proof of the same. So, let’s find out if you can eat it during pregnancy!

Nutritional Value of Guavas

Guavas are very nutritious and experts believe that eating guavas during pregnancy can be very beneficial. Guavas are rich in vitamins, minerals, and folic acid. Read on to know about the nutritional information about guavas.

Benefits of Eating Guavas During Pregnancy

Eating guavas during pregnancy can be beneficial for your overall health. Eating guavas in the morning is an excellent remedy for morning sickness. Due to their high fibre and water content, guavas should be an integral part of a pregnancy diet. Eating guavas during pregnancy can also help in maintaining blood pressure and prevent gestational diabetes, a common condition affecting pregnant women.

Apart from these benefits, there are several other guava benefits in pregnancy. Read on to know why this delicious fruit is a wonder fruit!

1. Helps Control Blood Pressure Levels

One of the benefits of eating this tropical fruit during pregnancy is that it controls blood pressure and prevents clotting thus maintaining the fluidity of blood. As a result, eating guavas can help prevent the chances of a miscarriage or premature birth (1).

2. Helps Control Cholesterol Levels

Being a rich source of fibre, guavas also keep blood cholesterol levels under control. High cholesterol can lead to cardiovascular complications which can be quite dangerous, especially during pregnancy. So eat guavas and keep your cholesterol levels in check.

3. Lowers the Risk of Anaemia

Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia during pregnancy. In iron-deficiency anaemia, the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to tissues throughout the body. This can affect the health of the mother and the baby. But the chances of anaemia can be lowered by consuming Vitamin C-rich foods like guavas that help in the absorption of iron (2).

4. Helps Relax Muscles and Nerves

The magnesium content in guava can help keep the muscles and nerves relaxed during pregnancy (3).

5. Prevents Infections

Guavas are known for their antioxidant properties and are rich in Vitamins A, C, and E. They also contain polyphenols and carotenoids. The presence of these vitamins and antioxidants help fight and prevent bacterial infections and lower the risk of illness.

6. Prevents Gestational Diabetes

Guavas not only help in lowering blood sugar levels but also help in regulating the same which eventually can help prevent gestational diabetes.

7. Regulates Digestion

Eating guavas can help keep digestion problems at bay and ensure the smooth functioning of the digestive system. The presence of potassium in guavas can also help tackle acidity and heartburn.

8. Helps in the Healthy Growth of the Baby

A rich source of folic acid, calcium and Vitamin B9, guavas can help in the healthy development of the baby’s brain and bones.

9. Prevents Constipation

Constipation and haemorrhoids are a common problem during pregnancy. Hormonal changes usually lead to this problem but eating guavas can solve this problem of constipation. Guavas being rich in fibre content and water can treat constipation. Eating guavas with the seeds can also prevent haemorrhoids.

10. Supports Immune System

Guavas are packed with immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. A robust immune system is essential during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the developing baby from infections and illnesses.

11. Aids in Healthy Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Guavas, being low in calories and high in fiber, can contribute to healthy weight management. The fiber content promotes a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

12. Enhances Skin Health

The vitamins and antioxidants present in guavas contribute to improved skin health. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can sometimes affect the skin. Guavas can help combat skin issues and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

13. Alleviates Morning Sickness

The natural sugars and high water content in guavas can help alleviate morning sickness, a common discomfort during pregnancy. Consuming small, frequent portions of guavas may provide relief from nausea and vomiting.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, eating guavas can also strengthen the immune system, increase energy levels, and decrease the stress hormones in the body. The very fact that guavas are rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and antioxidants make the consumption of guavas highly favourable for skin and hair.

Side Effects of Eating Guavas

Although guavas taste delicious and offer numerous health benefits, there are a few complications that may arise if you eat guavas in excessive amounts during pregnancy:

1. Guavas are rich in fibre which can help keep digestion problems at bay but if consumed in large amounts, it may cause diarrhoea.
2. Guavas, like most other fruits, are stored using lots of chemicals. These chemicals can cause bacterial infections that can have an adverse impact on health during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to wash guavas well before consumption.
3. Consuming guavas may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Allergies to guavas are rare but can include symptoms such as itching, swelling, or hives. If you notice any allergic reactions after eating guavas, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
4. While guavas are generally considered safe for individuals with diabetes, consuming them in excess may affect blood sugar levels. It’s crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their intake and consult with a healthcare professional to incorporate guavas into their diet safely.

How Many Guavas Can You Eat During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it’s advisable to consume guavas in moderation. One to two guavas per day is generally considered a safe and healthy amount. This provides essential nutrients without the risk of excessive fiber intake, which could lead to digestive issues. However, individual tolerance varies, and it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on specific health conditions.

Ways to Include Guavas in Your Pregnancy Diet

Integrating guavas into your pregnancy diet is a delightful way to harness their numerous health benefits. Whether enjoyed on their own or incorporated into various dishes, guavas can add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meals. Here are three creative ways to include guavas in your pregnancy diet:

1. Guava Smoothie

Blend fresh guava chunks with yogurt, a splash of milk, and a drizzle of honey to create a delicious and nutritious smoothie. This not only provides a refreshing beverage but also ensures you receive the benefits of guavas in a convenient and tasty form.

2. Guava Salad

Combine sliced guavas with other pregnancy-friendly fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and oranges to create a vibrant and nutrient-packed fruit salad. Add a sprinkle of chaat masala or a touch of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

3. Guava Salsa

Prepare a zesty guava salsa by mixing diced guavas with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno. This flavorful salsa can be enjoyed as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, providing a unique twist to your regular meals while incorporating the goodness of guavas.

Things to Keep in Mind While Eating Guavas During Pregnancy

When incorporating guavas into your pregnancy diet, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure a safe and healthy experience. Here are some important things to keep in mind while eating guavas during pregnancy:

• Ensure that you wash guavas thoroughly before consumption to remove any potential pesticides or contaminants on the skin. This precautionary step helps minimize the risk of bacterial infections and promotes overall food safety.
• While guavas offer numerous health benefits, moderation is crucial. Excessive consumption, especially in the form of supplements or concentrated forms, may lead to an imbalance in nutrient intake. Stick to recommended serving sizes to enjoy the advantages without potential side effects.
• Every pregnancy is unique, and individual tolerance to certain foods may vary. Pay attention to how your body responds to guavas. If you notice any adverse reactions or discomfort, it’s advisable to adjust your intake and seek guidance from your healthcare professional.

Drinking Guava Juice or Eating the Fruit Itself – What Should You Choose During Pregnancy?

Most fruits, when consumed in their raw and natural form, offer more health benefits. Guava is one such fruit, but there are many other ways to consume this fruit. Guavas can also be consumed in the form of jellies and jams. It can be consumed in the form of juice or in a fruit salad. However, during pregnancy, you must avoid drinking guava juice. One should also avoid consuming guavas in preserved forms like jelly and jam during pregnancy.

You should opt for the fruit, and while consuming the whole guava, you must pick ripe guava without any blemishes on it, wash it well, cut it into slices, and eat. Ripe guavas have a unique flavour. You can also add guava to a bowl of fruits and eat it as part of a fruit salad.

FAQs

1. Ripe or Unripe Guavas – Which Is a Healthier Choice During Pregnancy?

Many people like eating unripe guavas, and there is nothing wrong with eating unripe ones. Eating unripe guava can be equally nutritious and offers various health benefits if consumed in the right quantity. However, during pregnancy, eating unripe guavas is not recommended. It is suggested that you eat ripe guavas as they contain Vitamin C in higher amounts as compared to unripe ones. If you have dental problems, then again you should avoid consuming unripe guavas as you may suffer from a severe toothache while trying to bite into hard unripe guava. Choose ripe guavas over unripe ones and make healthier choices.

2. Should You Peel the Guava Before Eating While Pregnant?

It is advisable to peel guava fruit for pregnancy. Washing the fruit thoroughly and removing the peel helps eliminate potential contaminants, pesticides, or bacteria that may be present on the skin, ensuring a safer consumption experience.

3. Is It Safe to Consume Guava Leaves and Guava Tea During Pregnancy?

Guava leaves and guava tea are generally considered safe during pregnancy in moderate amounts. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating these into your routine. Excessive consumption of guava tea or guava leaf extracts may have potential side effects, and individual tolerance can vary. Always seek professional advice for personalized recommendations during pregnancy.

Guava during pregnancy third trimester and even the first trimester and second trimesters are very nutritious and are absolutely safe to consume. You can eat ripe guavas or drink guava juice. Just ensure that you take the necessary precautions before eating guavas so that your body absorbs all the essential nutrition from this juicy fruit. However, before you include this fruit in your pregnancy diet, do consult your doctor about the same. Also, discuss how many guavas should you eat in a day or a week. Your doctor or nutritionist will be able to recommend the right quantity as per your body’s requirements. So now that you know all about guava and pregnancy, make healthy choices and have a healthy pregnancy!

References/Resources:

1. Singh. R, Rastogi. S, et al.; Can guava fruit intake decrease blood pressure and blood lipids? (Journal of Human Hypertension); National Library of Medicine; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8383769/; February 1993

2. Nair. K, Brahmam. G, Radhika. M, Dripta. R, et al.; Inclusion of Guava Enhances Non-Heme Iron Bioavailability but Not Fractional Zinc Absorption from a Rice-Based Meal in Adolescents (The Journal of Nutrition); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3652882/; June 2013

3. Daswani. P, Gholkar. M, Birdi. T; Psidium guajava: A Single Plant for Multiple Health Problems of Rural Indian Population (Pharmacognosy Reviews); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5628524/

4. Guava, raw; U.S. Department of Agriculture; https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/2344733/nutrients

5. Díaz-de-Cerio. E, Verardo. V, Gómez-Caravaca. A, Fernández-Gutiérrez. A, Segura-Carretero. A; Health Effects of Psidium guajava L. Leaves: An Overview of the Last Decade; National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5412476/; April 2017

6. Kominiarek. M; Nutrition Recommendations in Pregnancy and Lactation (Medical Clinics of North America); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5104202/; November 2017

7. Jang. W, Kim. H, Lee. B, Chang. N; Maternal fruit and vegetable or vitamin C consumption during pregnancy is associated with fetal growth and infant growth up to 6 months: results from the Korean Mothers and Children’s Environmental Health (MOCEH) cohort study (Nutrition Journal); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6231254/; November 2018

8. Fruit and Vegetable Safety; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/communication/steps-healthy-fruits-veggies.html

9. Ravi. K, Divyashree. P; Psidium guajava: A review on its potential as an adjunct in treating periodontal disease (Pharmacognosy Reviews); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4127827/

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