Papayas are packed with goodness. They are rich in antioxidants such as carotenoid, vitamin C, and flavonoid. Papayas are also an excellent source of B vitamins like folate and pantothenic acid, and minerals such as potassium, copper, and magnesium. On top of all that they are also a good source of fibre.
Another thing papayas contain is papain, which is an enzyme that helps to digest proteins chains found in meat. The enzyme papain is especially rich in unripe papaya.
With respect to its nutritional value, papaya can benefit your health in the following ways:
- The strong antioxidant effect of papaya can help neutralize the free radicals in your body so they can no longer create harm. Oxidative stress is reduced and several disease risks are lower.
- The high lycopene (a type of carotenoid) and vitamin C may help improve heart health by enhancing the protective effects of HDL, which is known as the “good” cholesterol.
- The antioxidants including lycopene and vitamin C can reduce free radical activities and thus protect your skin from damages. These antioxidants may help defend your skin from sun damage or wrinkling.
- Carotenoids in papaya help reduce inflammation in your body.
- The papain enzyme helps your body to digest protein, and hence improves constipation and bloating.
- Fibre in papaya can bind to toxins in the colon and keep them away from healthy cells. The folate, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and vitamin E in papaya are also associated with reduce risk of colon cancer.