Guava is often praised as a superfruit, loved for its sweet taste and rich vitamin C content. But while most of us rush for the ripe, juicy versions, the unripe guava is a hidden gem that holds even more powerful health benefits— especially when it comes to disease prevention.

Unlike its ripe counterpart, unripe guava is firmer, slightly bitter, and packed with natural antioxidants, tannins, and polyphenols— all of which play a critical role in shielding your body from harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and lead to chronic illnesses and aging. But when you include antioxidant- rich foods like unripe guava in your diet, you strengthen your body' s defense system naturally.

Let' s explore four deadly diseases that unripe guava may help prevent— and why you should think twice before skipping this underrated fruit.

Yes, you read that right. One of the most powerful benefits of unripe guava lies in its potential to help prevent the growth of cancer cells. Its antioxidant content— especially compounds like lycopene, quercetin, and vitamin C— works to neutralize free radicals, which are known to cause mutations in cells that can lead to cancer. Regular consumption of unripe guava may lower your risk of certain cancers such as prostate, breast, and colon cancers.