Regularly drinking guava juice could offer a simple and affordable way to help reduce anemia risk among women and teenage girls in low and middle income countries, according to a new review published in the open access journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.
Researchers found that combining guava juice with iron supplements appeared to improve hemoglobin levels more effectively than taking iron supplements alone. The findings suggest the tropical fruit juice could become a useful addition to nutrition programs aimed at preventing iron deficiency anemia in regions where the condition is widespread.
Iron deficiency anemia is especially common among pregnant women and adolescent girls in many developing countries. The condition can lead to fatigue, weakness, poor concentration, pregnancy complications, and increased risk of serious illness or death.
Why Guava Juice May Help
Guava is naturally rich in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron from plant based foods more efficiently. According to the researchers, guava contains up to four times more vitamin C per 100 grams than oranges.
