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Guava is a tropical fruit that is rich in several nutrients. Many traditional medicinal systems utilize this fruit to treat medical ailments due to its ability to act as a strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer agent. (1)
In fact, the guava plant is used in its entirety including the seed.
Yes! Guava seeds are perfectly edible and do offer some benefits. But because there are hard to eat and contain high amounts of dietary fiber and some antinutrients, they can be difficult to digest, especially if you already suffer from poor digestion.
Nutritional Profile of Guava Seeds
Seeds are what grows the new plant, and just like the seeds of any other plant, guava seeds are also nutrient dense.
They contain approximately 67% fiber, 16% fat, and 10% protein. They also contain minerals such as zinc, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and manganese. (2)
Health Benefits of Guava Seeds
Guava seeds can be useful for: (3)(4)
- Relieving constipation
- Managing allergies
- Protecting nerves from damage
- Managing diabetes
- Boosting immunity
- Preventing cancer
How to Consume Guava Seeds
You can consume some of the seeds along with the fruit. However, the seeds contain antinutrients that will prevent the digestion of the seeds.
Here are some recommendations when consuming guava seeds:
- Wash the seeds well.
- Place seeds in a strainer in a pressure cooker. Allow to steam for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the pressure cooker, and let the seeds dry well.
- Grind them into a fine powder.
- Use the guava seed powder in smoothies, chutneys, gravies, and soups, or infuse in teas.
This process of high-pressure steaming was found to be the most effective in reducing the phytic acid (antinutrient factor) content of guava seeds, making them easier to digest. (5)
Can I Give Guava Seeds to My Child?
Avoid giving seeds or seed powders to children below the age of 10. They contain high amounts of fiber and can cause stomachaches or diarrhea.
Practical Takeaway
- Guava seeds are edible but hard to digest.
- They contain beneficial nutrients and can be used for managing ailments such as diabetes, boosting immunity, managing constipation, and protecting the nerves from oxidative damage.
- High-pressure steaming using a pressure cooker can reduce the antinutrient factor of guava seeds, making them easier to digest.
- Children under the age of 10 should not be given guava seed powder.
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