Papaya is a fruit that is native to Central America and Mexico. This fruit is a large berry that is about the size of a cantaloupe. The flesh of the fruit is a deep orange colour and is very juicy. The nutritional value of papaya is very high. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, fibre, beta-carotene and lycopene. All of these nutrients are important for maintaining good health.
Fibre keeps the digestive system healthy and may lower cholesterol levels. Vitamin C is important for the immune system and for collagen production. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. Lycopene is also an antioxidant and has been linked with a lower risk of cancer.
Papaya is also a low-calorie fruit and is a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
What is the nutritional value of papaya?
The nutrient value of 100 g of papaya according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is as follows:
Water: 88.1 g
Energy: 43 kcal
Protein: 0.47 g
Carbohydrate: 10.8 g
Fibre: 1.7 g
Sugars: 7.82 g
Calcium: 20 mg
Magnesium: 21 mg
Phosphorous: 10 mg
Potassium: 182 mg
Sodium: 8 mg
Vitamin C: 60.9 mg
Carotene beta: 274 µg
Lutein + zeaxanthin: 89 µg
What are the benefits of papaya?
1. Is rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals
Papaya is an excellent source of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which are beneficial for overall health. They play a role in maintaining healthy cell function and preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
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Antioxidants in papaya include carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamins C and E. These nutrients scavenge free radicals and help repair cell damage.
Phytochemicals are plant compounds that have a variety of health-promoting properties. These compounds include lycopene, beta-carotene, and lutein. They help protect against cell damage and promote a healthy immune system.
2. Can help boost immunity
Papaya is a great fruit for boosting immunity owing to its high concentration of vitamin C. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off infections and diseases. Additionally, papaya contains the enzyme papain, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Improves digestion
The papain enzyme in papaya aids in the digestion of proteins, while the fibre content helps keep the digestive system regular. This improves overall digestive health.
4. May help lower cholesterol
Papaya can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood because of the fibre and pectin content in them. It also contains antioxidants, which may help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
5. May prevent cancer
Papaya has been shown to have cancer-preventive properties. The antioxidants and phytochemicals present in papaya protect cells from damage and prevent the formation of cancerous tumours.
The National Cancer Institute has conducted research on the potential cancer-preventive properties of papaya. It has found that papaya may prevent cancer due to the presence of certain compounds in it, including lycopene, beta-carotene, and vitamins C and E. These compounds work together to scavenge free radicals, which are harmful byproducts of cellular metabolism that can damage DNA and lead to the development of cancer.
6. Aid in weight loss
Papaya is a low-calorie fruit and is rich in fibre. This combination makes it an excellent food for aiding in weight loss. The fibre helps fill you up and prevents overeating, and it also reduces overall calorie intake.
How much papaya should I eat per day?
The amount of papaya to be consumed daily depends on a variety of factors, including age, gender, activity level, and overall health. However, most health experts agree that consuming 1-2 cups of papaya per day is a safe and healthy amount for most people.
Do papayas have side effects?
Papayas are generally considered safe. However, some people may experience an allergic reaction to papayas. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and nausea. If you experience these symptoms after eating papayas, seek medical attention immediately.
What happens if you eat papaya every day?
Eating papaya daily can have various benefits such as healthier skin, improved digestion, and a lower risk of heart disease. Additionally, papaya contains vitamins and minerals that are essential for the body, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium.
Why shouldn’t you eat papaya on an empty stomach?
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which breaks down proteins. Eating papaya on an empty stomach can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause indigestion.
What should not be eaten with papaya?
There are many different opinions on what should not be eaten with papaya. Papaya should not be eaten with other fruits because of certain enzymes present in them. It should also not be eaten with milk or dairy products because it can cause indigestion.
