There are just a handful of affordable fruits that offer multiple health benefits. Papaya is one of them. In spite of being tagged as a common man’s super fruit, papaya is consumed by film and sports stars, influencers, fashionistas, and models as a part of their daily diet. And the reason for this affinity, this indulgence, is papaya’s health benefits.
A native of Central America, papaya tastes sweet, has a unique, rich texture, and reflects linear colours—from yellow to orange to reddish. It is also a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, minerals, and nutrients. Read on to learn the 10 incredible health benefits of papaya.
The Nutritional Powerhouse
Due to its large size, papaya tends to offer certain vitamins and minerals that are in excess of daily human needs. Vitamin C is one of them. In any case, we don’t eat all the fruit in one go. Secondly, papaya contains Pantothenic Acid, a type of vitamin B complex that is essential for the oxidation of fats, carbohydrates, and amino acids. A typical papaya (around 300 grams) contains proteins (1.4 grams), dietary fibre (5 grams), sugar (22 grams), fat (< 1 gram), and decent amounts of carbs and calories.
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Good For Digestive Health
One of the incredible papaya health benefits is digestive health, which is because of papain, a cysteine protease. It helps break down protein in our bodies into various organic compounds such as amino acids, the building blocks that perform several metabolic functions while producing and repairing body tissues. Moreover, the presence of high fibre and water in papaya promotes a healthy gut and aids excellent bowel health. No wonder, then, it is considered one of the best fruits when it comes to managing a healthy digestive tract.
Immune System Support
Papaya is loaded with Vitamins A and C. While the former helps fight bacterial and viral illnesses such as seasonal and nonseasonal colds and flu, the latter promotes a healthy immune system. Incidentally, papaya contains vitamin A in the form of retinol / retinoic acid. A small serving of this fruit provides almost 70% (daily need) of vitamin C and 30% (daily need) of vitamin A. It also brims with antioxidants, making it a powerful food to ward off common health issues.
Heart Health
Well-known nutritionists typically list foods/fruits which are rich in potassium, fibre, and vitamin A. This is especially true for people who are suffering from cardiovascular issues or heart-related ailments. The reason is that these foods reduce fat content in our bodies and, at the same time, neutralise the impact of sodium (the culprit behind high blood pressure). Fortunately, papaya is loaded with these essential health goodies in just the right proportion. These nutritionists also recognise papaya’s health benefits in terms of diabetes and therefore highly recommend the same.
Vision Protection
Apart from vitamins A and E, papaya also contains a couple of antioxidants (lutein and zeaxanthin), which are known to improve vision and block damaging radiations from natural (sun) and manmade (computer/mobile) sources. While the vitamins in papaya aid and improve vision and thereby prevent serious eye issues like macular degeneration, the antioxidants help neutralise harmful rays.
Skin Rejuvenation
According to the National Library of Medicine, papaya contains readily available B-carotene and B-cryptoxanthin, which fight skin diseases and stop cell damage. These Carotenoids also provide the elasticity and suppleness typically associated with youthful skin. No wonder papaya masks are considered a safe and result-oriented way to get a lighter and glowing complexion. Papaya benefits for the skin also include getting rid of dead epidermal/exfoliation.
Weight Management
Although this claim needs further studies, the initial tests have been positive. It seems like papaya does have weight-reducing properties. However, dieticians look up to papaya as a physical source of weight loss, unlike medical scientists who seek proof at a molecular level. Papaya is loaded with fibre and has a high water content. While the fibre counters weight gain (no calorie gain), the water makes you feel fuller and satiated for longer periods.
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Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of the unknown and invisible health benefits of papaya is its anti-inflammatory properties. Even the seeds and leaves reflect similar virtues. So, what makes it an edible source for fighting chronic bone and organ inflammation, such as arthritis and gout? The answer is phytochemicals, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which play an important role in preventing and reducing inflammation.
Bone Health
The composition of papaya makes it an ideal transporter and enhancer of calcium intake. The fibrous, starchy flesh aids efficient absorption, promoting good bone health. Moreover, secondary vitamins such as vitamin K strengthen the bone further.
Hydration and Detoxification
Optimal hydration in the human body provides amazing benefits. These include a healthy digestive system, better body temperature regulation, and enhanced brain functioning. Papaya provides enough hydration with an 88% water content to exploit these advantages. The health benefits of papaya are several; moreover, eating papaya toppings and salads includes detoxification, too.
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Conclusion: Papaya Health Benefits
Papaya (Carica papaya) has several synonyms, but its nutritional and, thereby, papaya health benefits remain the same. A resident of South & Central America, papaya is loaded with goodness. Some of its nutrients and phytochemicals prevent and address lifestyle and age-related illnesses. Papaya can be consumed in salads, smoothies, and even vegetarian grilled kebabs. If you are fun-loving, just scoop it off and enjoy its delicious taste and texture. Add it to your daily diet for amazing health benefits.
Disclaimer:The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. BeatoApp does not claim responsibility for this information
Dr. Navneet Agarwal is an established and highly skilled Diabetology with over 25 years of experience in Diabetology & Obesity. He is well-regarded for his quality and patient-centered diabetes care. Also, keep track of your blood sugar levels with a Doctors’ approved smart glucometer and elevate your healthcare routine.
