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| - Last Updated on January 28, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating guava daily can clean the arteries. After fact checking, we determined this claim to be mostly false.
The Claim
An Instagram video claims that eating guava every day can “super clean” your arteries and remove blockages. The video suggests it is almost like doing a thorough cleaning inside your body. It also talks about a 1960s study where high doses of Vitamin C supposedly reversed a condition called atherosclerosis. The video suggests this research was hidden to keep people sick and dependent on medications.
Fact Check
Can guava clean your arteries?
Not really. While guava is full of healthy compounds like Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre, it can’t actually clean or clear blockages in your arteries. The build-up of plaque in your arteries, which causes a condition called atherosclerosis, is a serious health issue. It requires proper treatment, not just a diet change. Eating guava can help support your overall heart health, but it won’t undo any damage already done to your arteries.
Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, and General Physician from Navi Mumbai, explains, “Guava is a fantastic fruit packed with fibre, antioxidants, and Vitamin C, all of which support heart health. However, it’s important to understand that while guava can certainly help manage cholesterol and blood pressure, it won’t clear blockages in your arteries. Atherosclerosis, or the build-up of plaque in the arteries, is a serious condition that requires medical attention and treatment. Guava can be a wonderful addition to a heart-healthy diet. But, it should be seen as part of a broader approach to maintaining cardiovascular health, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and following your doctor’s advice.”
Similarly, there are claims that a finger pose can diagnose blocked arteries and improve circulation. However, these claims lack scientific evidence.
What about the 1960s Vitamin C study?
The claim video did not specify the exact study, but Vitamin C has long been considered beneficial for heart health. Several studies have explored the benefits of Vitamin C for heart health, though it remains unclear whether Vitamin C alone can effectively prevent or treat atherosclerosis in humans. For instance, a 2008 study suggests that consuming more antioxidant vitamins (C, E, and beta-carotene) can lower the risk of heart disease. This is particularly true when obtained from food. However, Vitamin C supplements did not show a strong effect. While Vitamin C is beneficial for overall health, it is not a magic cure for clogged arteries. Atherosclerosis is a complex condition that requires medical attention, not just a boost of Vitamin C.
Does Vitamin C help heart health?
Yes, Vitamin C is good for your heart in many ways. It’s an antioxidant, which means it helps reduce inflammation and protect your blood vessels. It can also help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. But taking high doses of Vitamin C won’t clear out plaque or reverse heart disease. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, like guava, can support heart health, but it’s not a substitute for medical treatment if you have heart problems.
Can guava help with heart health?
Definitely! Guava is a nutritious fruit that can support your heart in several ways. It’s high in fibre, which helps lower cholesterol, and packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C, which reduce inflammation and promote healthy blood vessels. Regularly eating guava can be a great addition to a heart-healthy diet, but it won’t clear clogged arteries on its own.
Studies highlight guava’s potential benefits for heart health. For instance, a 1992 study found that adding guava to the diet can lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, improving overall heart health. Guava’s fibre, vitamins, and minerals contribute to these effects, making it a valuable part of a balanced diet. Another study from 2016 found that a substance from guava leaves (PS-PGL) has strong antioxidant effects. It helped protect cells from damage and reduced stress in lab tests and zebrafish.
Further supporting this, a 2010 study found that guava leaf extract can improve cholesterol levels, reduce triglycerides, and lower blood pressure. Guava Leaf Tea, made from this extract, is even approved for health use in Japan. Additionally, a 2005 study confirmed that guava leaf extract can help lower blood sugar and blood pressure, reinforcing its traditional use in managing diabetes and hypertension. The flavonoids and tannins in guava leaves are believed to be responsible for these benefits.
Lastly, a 1993 study showed that eating guava daily can reduce blood pressure and improve blood lipid levels in people with hypertension. After four weeks, participants who ate guava regularly saw significant improvements, thanks to its potassium and soluble fibre content.
Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, says, “Guava is an excellent addition to a heart-healthy diet. Rich in fibre, antioxidants, and Vitamin C, it helps lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support overall heart function. While it won’t reverse heart disease or clear blockages, regularly eating guava can contribute to better heart health when combined with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. Think of it as part of a bigger picture for maintaining a healthy heart.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that eating guava daily can clean the arteries is mostly false. While guava is a healthy fruit that supports heart health, the claim that it can clean arteries or reverse blockages is misleading. Eating guava can help keep your heart in good shape, but it won’t clear out plaque or replace medical treatment for heart conditions.
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