Why We Should Eat Papaya?

Womenscorner Desk
September 16, 2020

Research suggests that the lycopene in papaya can reduce cancer risk. It may also be beneficial for people who are being treated for cancer. Papaya may work by reducing free radicals that contribute to cancer. Additionally, papaya may have some unique effects not shared by other fruits. Among 14 fruits and vegetables with known antioxidant properties, only papaya demonstrated anticancer activity in breast cancer cells. In a small study in older adults with inflammation and precancerous stomach conditions, a fermented papaya preparation reduced oxidative damage.

May Improve Heart Health : Adding more papaya to your diet may boost your heart health. Studies show that fruits high in lycopene and vitamin C may help prevent heart disease. The antioxidants in papaya may protect your heart and enhance the protective effects of “good” HDL cholesterol. In one study, people who took a fermented papaya supplement for 14 weeks had less inflammation and a better ratio of “bad” LDL to “good” HDL than people given a placebo. An improved ratio is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Papaya’s high vitamin C and lycopene content can improve heart health and may reduce your risk of heart disease.

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May Fight Inflammation : Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases, and unhealthy foods and lifestyle choices can drive the inflammatory process. Studies show that antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like papaya help reduce inflammatory markers. For example, one study noted that men who increased their intake of fruits and vegetables high in carotenoids had a significant decrease in CRP, a particular inflammatory marker. Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases. Papayas are very high in carotenoids that can reduce inflammation.

May Improve Digestion : The papain enzyme in papaya can make protein easier to digest. People in the tropics consider papaya to be a remedy for constipation and other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In one study, people who took a papaya-based formula for 40 days had significant improvement in constipation and bloating.The seeds, leaves and roots have also been shown to treat ulcers in animals and humans. Papaya has been shown to improve constipation and other symptoms of IBS. The seeds and other parts of the plant have also been used to treat ulcers.

Protects Against Skin Damage : In addition to keeping your body healthy, papaya can also help your skin look more toned and youthful. Excessive free radical activity is believed to be responsible for much of the wrinkling, sagging and other skin damage that occurs with age. The vitamin C and lycopene in papaya protect your skin and may help reduce these signs of aging.

In one study, supplementing with lycopene for 10–12 weeks decreased skin redness after sun exposure, which is a sign of skin injury. In another, older women who consumed a mixture of lycopene, vitamin C and other antioxidants for 14 weeks had a visible and measurable reduction in depth of facial wrinkles. The powerful antioxidants in papaya can help your skin recover from sun damage and may defend against wrinkling.

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Delicious and Versatile : Papaya has a unique taste that many people love. However, ripeness is key. An unripe or overly ripe papaya can taste very different from a perfectly ripe one. When optimally ripe, papaya should be yellow to orange-red in color, although a few green spots are fine. Like an avocado, its skin should yield to gentle pressure. Its flavor is best when cold, so it’s a good idea to keep it refrigerated whenever possible. After washing it well, you can cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and eat it out of the rind with a spoon, like cantaloupe or melon. As it’s incredibly versatile, it can also be combined with other foods that complement its flavor.

Here are a few easy recipe ideas using one small papaya:

Breakfast: Cut it in half and fill each half with Greek yogurt, then top with a few blueberries and chopped nuts.

Appetizer: Cut it into strips and wrap a slice of ham or prosciutto around each strip.

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Salsa: Chop papaya, tomatoes, onions and cilantro, then add lime juice and mix well.
Smoothie: Combine the diced fruit with coconut milk and ice in a blender, then blend until smooth.

Salad: Chop papaya and avocado into cubes, add diced cooked chicken and dress with olive oil and vinegar.

Dessert: Combine the chopped fruit with 2 tablespoons (28 grams) of chia seeds, 1 cup (240 ml) of almond milk and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla. Mix well and refrigerate before eating.

Source : Google