When the rainy season arrives, we tend to be vulnerable to various diseases such as flu, and even dengue fever. Why? In cold weather, we tend to spend more time indoors and close to one another, thus facilitating the spread of viruses. Also, many viruses tend to be stronger and thrive in weather conditions with low humidity, such as the rainy season. According to research, rainfall provides a good place for mosquitoes that cause dengue fever to lay eggs and breed to an adult stage. And if coupled with our weak or poorly functioning immune system, likes and dislikes of the disease will come on its own without being picked up.
If you are already sick, then you realize how important the role of the immune system is in charge of protecting us from various types of viruses, bacteria, and other disease-causing microorganisms. Fortunately, even if you are sick, your immune system can be improved to speed up the healing process.
One way to boost our immune system is to consume vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin functions as a protective body cell from environmental damage. Therefore, vitamin C is widely recommended to help prevent and/or help treat various health conditions. One way to get vitamin C is by consuming vitamin-laden foods, for example, guava.
Guava fruit is a source of vitamin C, fiber, and other substances that can protect body cells such as polyphenols, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids. This substance in guava juice helps slow down or stop the harmful effects of oxidation. Vitamin C in guava is also able to heal wounds and form scar tissue; it helps the growth of healthy skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels; and repairing and maintaining cartilage, bone, and teeth.
The content of vitamin C in guava fruit is even more than oranges. In every 100 grams of guava, there is at least 228 mg of vitamin C. Compare with citrus fruits which only contain 53 mg of vitamin C in every 100 grams. In addition to the fruit, guava or guava leaves also contain chemicals with the effect of protecting body cells.
Because vitamin C cannot be made or stored by our bodies, it is recommended to always consume foods that contain vitamin C every day so that our bodies are always healthy. Small children need at least 15-45 mg of vitamin C intake per day, adolescents of 14-18 years need 65¬75 grams of vitamin C per day, and adults need 75-90 mg of vitamin C per day. Higher amounts of vitamin C are needed by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those who smoke.
