Guava is rich in vitamin C and fiber, and traditional Chinese medicine recognizes its sweet and astringent taste, warm nature, and its effects on the intestines and diarrhea. However, not everyone is suited to eating guava, and it may cause side effects in some people.
Here are 5 groups of people who should avoid eating guava and the potential risks:
1. People with digestive disorders
Guava is very high in fiber. While fiber is beneficial for the digestive system, excessive amounts can irritate and damage the intestines in people with sensitive digestive systems, such as those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic constipation, gastritis, acid reflux, or bloating.
Guava seeds are hard to digest and can increase constipation or cause intestinal discomfort. The digestive lining can also be damaged when eating guava on an empty stomach, so people with digestive problems should be cautious when eating guava.
Guava is rich in fiber but can cause irritation in people with sensitive digestive systems.
2. People with diabetes
Guava is considered a diabetes-friendly fruit due to its low glycemic index. However, this does not mean that people with diabetes can eat it indiscriminately.
Eating too much of this fruit, especially ripe guava, can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. Furthermore, because it's naturally sweet and contains carbohydrates, consuming excessive amounts can negatively impact blood glucose.
3. People with colds, coughs, or respiratory problems.
Guava has a cooling effect on the body. For people with colds and coughs, sore throats, chest tightness, asthma, or sinus problems, consuming guava may increase mucus production and worsen symptoms.
This is because foods that cause the body to feel cold can worsen respiratory problems, especially during the transition to winter.
4. People with low blood pressure (hypotension)
Guava has the benefit of lowering blood pressure, which is good for people with high blood pressure, but for those who already have low blood pressure, this fruit can cause health problems such as dizziness, weakness, and lightheadedness when eaten in large quantities. This danger increases when eating a lot of guava or combining it with blood pressure-lowering medication.
5. Pregnant women with sensitive digestive systems should be cautious when eating guava.
Guava is good for health during pregnancy, but it can cause some side effects for pregnant women with sensitive stomachs. Possible problems include constipation due to eating guava seeds, heartburn or acid reflux, and abdominal discomfort.
In addition, bacteria or pesticide residues used to process guavas can also remain on unwashed or fresh guavas, further increasing the risk of infection, which is not good for the health of pregnant women.