What is Papaya

What is Papaya? Tropical climates provide an abundant variety of fruits and vegetables. The Papaya, an essential and nutritional fruit can be found all year long. Also called Pawpaw, the fruit is harvested 9 months after planting. 

According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, papaya is rich in antioxidant nutrients such as carotenes, flavonoids, and vitamin C, as well as some B vitamins (folate and pantothenic acid). [1] It is also a good source of fiber and minerals such as magnesium. Together, these nutrients help improve cardiovascular health and protect against colon cancer.

13 Surprising Benefits Of Papaya (Pawpaw)
by Meenakshi Nagdeve last updated – April 25, 2019
 Medically reviewed by Vanessa Voltolina (MS, RD)

What is Papaya?

Papaya is a healthy, juicy, delicious, and fragrant fruit. This tropical and popular fruit has been cultivated for many years. It is a pear-shaped fruit that comes in a variety of sizes. When fully ripened, the flesh is a bright orange color with round black seeds covered with gelatin-like substance. The seeds are not edible as they are bitter. 

When the skin of the fruit is green the flesh is not sweet. When it starts to ripen the skin will turn yellowish and the flesh will be sweet. The fruit can be found in many local markets.

Health and nutrition benefits of the papaya fruit

This wonderful fruit is a low-calorie fruit. It has the following benefits: 

• Aids with digestion
• Good for people who are trying to lose weight naturally
• Prevents infections
• Relieves toothache (paste of fresh papaya roots)
• Contains anti-cancer properties
• Use in cosmetic as a revitalizing agent
• May help fight inflammation
• Prevent arthritis
• Improve heart health
• Relieves constipation
• Relieves menstruation

Side effects of the papaya fruit

• Classified as being harmful during pregnancy as it can cause contractions which might lead to abortion. 
• Eating a large quantity can cause stomach irritation and perforation. It is also perceived as a strong laxative. 
• Avoid eating seeds as they contain traces of an enzyme called carpine. This enzyme is toxic and can cause many issues with the nervous system. 

For more info please refer to the sources listed below. For recipes be sure to check our recipe index section.

Recipes to enjoy papayas: 

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Spinach, Beet, Papaya and Kiwi

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Spinach, Beet, Papaya and Kiwi, a simple and delicious salad made with simple, healthy ingredients.

Mustard Greens and Papaya Salad

Mustard Greens and Papaya Salad, a quick easy salad full of nutrients.

Papaya, Eggplant and Watercress Stew

Papaya, Eggplant and Watercress Stew is a meatless stew full of vitamins and healthy ingredients that are good for the body.

Papaya and Lemonade Frappe

Papaya Lemonade Frappe, a super delicious drink made with fresh ripened papaya, fresh lemonade and fresh ginger.

Sources

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-proven-papaya-benefits