People who should not eat guavas
Guava is delicious and good for health, but it is not suitable for everyone
Guava has long been known as a fruit rich in vitamin C, fiber, and many other nutrients that benefit the body. However, eating guava is not beneficial for everyone. Certain compounds in guava can adversely affect the health of people with specific illnesses or conditions.
Below are people who should avoid eating guava:
People prone to bloating
Suc khoe & Doi song Newspaper quoted Pharmacist Thu Hoai stating that guavas contain high levels of fructose (a natural sugar) and vitamin C. Both can lead to gas and bloating in sensitive individuals. When the body consumes more vitamin C than it can absorb, the excess amount can ferment in the intestines, producing gas and causing discomfort.
Fructose malabsorption is also a condition where the small intestine cannot absorb fructose efficiently. In this case, eating guavas may cause bloating, flatulence, or a feeling of fullness.
- Mechanism: Excess vitamin C and fructose in the intestines are fermented by gut bacteria, causing gas and bloating.
- Recommendation: Avoid eating guava right before bedtime because lying down can worsen bloating. Eating guava with meals or dividing it into smaller portions can help reduce discomfort.
People with stomach conditions
Lao Dong Newspaper, citing the Food Safety Department under the Ministry of Health, reported that although guavas are beneficial for the stomach, people with stomach aches should only consume them in moderation. Hard, difficult-to-chew guavas force the stomach to work harder, potentially worsening the pain. In particular, you should never eat guavas or drink guava juice on an empty stomach.
People with diabetes
Ripe guava has a fairly high glycemic index (GI), reaching 78. If people with diabetes eat it regularly, their blood sugar may rise sharply. This group should therefore limit eating guava or drinking guava juice daily.
People suffering from a toothache
Guava is hard and contains many seeds, which can worsen pain in people who already have a toothache. They should therefore avoid this fruit, especially ripe guava.
People with eczema or sensitive skin
Guava fruit and leaves contain bioactive compounds that may irritate sensitive skin. Some guava extracts offer general health benefits but may worsen eczema or chronic skin conditions, causing redness, itching, or inflammation.
- Mechanism: Bioactive compounds trigger an immune response in the skin, causing inflammation or irritation.
- Recommendation: People with eczema or sensitive skin should avoid using guava leaves. Consult a dermatologist before using guava topically or orally.