Papaya. Health benefits

 Papayas are tropical fruits sometimes called "papaws" or "pawpaws". They are now widely available throughout the year, despite previously being rare and exotic. They are sweet, colorful, and nutritious, and can be added to salads, smoothies, and dishes.

Nutrition

Papaya is an excellent source of

Vitamin C

Vitamin A

Folate

Magnesium

Copper

Pantothenic acid

Fiber

Benefits

May slow down age-related macular degeneration

Age-related degeneration (AMD) is a common ocular condition that typically affects people over the age of 50.

Papaya contains zeaxanthin, which works as an antioxidant to eliminate blue light waves. It is believed to prevent the development of macular degeneration.

Consuming a larger quantity of any type of fruit has been scientifically proven to lower the chances and advancement of age-related eye problems.

Aids digestion

The tropical fruit papaya consists of papain, which is recognized for its ability to enhance digestion. It can also make the meat softer when used as a seasoning.

The abundance of fiber and water in papaya aids in maintaining bowel regularity, preventing constipation, and promoting a healthy digestive system.

Helps reduce chronic inflammation

Papayas contain choline, a highly essential nutrient that assists the body in various functions such as sleep regulation, muscle mobility, cognitive learning, and memory retention. Choline plays an essential role in preserving the integrity of cell membranes, supporting nerve impulse condition, facilitating fat absorption, and alleviating long-lasting inflammation.

May help reduce the risk of heart disease

Eating papaya can help prevent heart disease because it contains fiber, potassium, and vitamins. To lower the risk of heart disease, it is important to eat more potassium and less salt.

Risks 

Latex allergy may cause papaya allergy due to chitinase enzymes present in papayas. Ripe papayas can have an unpleasant smell, but you can reduce it by mixing it with lime.

How to eat papayas

When selecting or consuming papayas, it is advisable to opt for ripened ones that have soft skin and are bright reddish-orange color. Just slice it like melon, remove the seeds, and savor it. You can eat papaya seeds, but they taste bitter and spicy. You can use a spoon to take out the soft part of the fruit.