Studies On The Health Benefits Of Papaya
Papaya is a fruit full of power and has more benefits than you could imagine. Some scientific studies have evaluated the effect of its nutrients and antioxidants on processes such as cancer, inflammation, and aging.
In this article we will tell you the 6 best benefits of papaya tested by science. Don’t miss it!
Why is papaya important?
Without a doubt, vitamin C is one of papaya’s strengths, providing an incredible 144% of the recommended daily value per serving. Certainly, this is wonderful as an immune system booster, and as a free radical antioxidant.
Other vitamins included are vitamin A (31% of the recommended daily value), which is required for healthy skin, mucous membranes and vision. Furthermore, it is especially effective against macular degeneration.
Papaya provides 13% of the Recommended Daily Value for folate and good amounts of fiber and potassium, essential components in cells and the body that help control heart rate and blood pressure.
Papaya contains 212 amino acids and various enzymes, including the papain. This enzyme has an anti-inflammatory effect on the stomach, which improves digestion and stomach discomfort.
nutritional properties
- Papaya is a watery fruit with a sweet taste that contributes just 43 calories per 100 grams.
- It contains B group vitamins (B1, B2 and B3), lots of vitamin C, as well as vitamin A, and vitamin D.
- It’s a source of fiber.
- Contains minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and iodine.
6 Benefits of Papaya for Health
1. Prevents cancer
Foods with high amounts of vitamin C have been linked to a lower risk of cancer. Thus, the vitamin C present in food improves immune system function, decreases oxidative stress, reduces levels of inflammation, and helps to block and prevent the formation and activation of carcinogens.
In addition, there is evidence that the lycopene we find in papaya has anticancer effects, which may help prevent many types of cancer and slow the growth of tumors.
2. It is a powerful natural antioxidant
Oxidative damage is a risk factor for diseases like cancer, or heart disease and aging. Papaya is also rich in several antioxidant compounds, mainly carotenoids, natural compounds that act as pigments and antioxidants, and are a source of provitamin A.
3. Reduces inflammation
Inflammation is a natural mechanism your body uses to protect you from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Generally, all foods rich in antioxidant substances and compounds have anti-inflammatory properties to a greater or lesser degree.
In papaya, it is lycopene, among other carotenoids, that contributes to lower levels of inflammation in the body.
4. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Some studies suggest that lycopene, thanks to its ability to fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, contributes to a lower risk of heart disease.
On the other hand, papaya also contains a very high amount of vitamin C, which also acts as an antioxidant, and which has also been shown to reduce the chances of developing heart and chronic diseases.
5. Papaya reduces aging marks
Aging is a process that develops over time but is accentuated by oxidation. So then, foods rich in antioxidants like papaya can reduce the signs of aging that show up on your skin. For example, wrinkles or sagging skin, when fighting oxidative stress.
Furthermore, it has been confirmed that both vitamin C and lycopene improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the marks of aging. Finally, the topical application of papaya has also been used with very good results in the healing of ulcers and other skin wounds.
6. Favors digestion
Papain acts as a digestive enzyme, favoring the breakdown of food. Furthermore, there is scientific evidence confirming that consuming papaya can prevent digestion problems. In a study carried out with a papaya-based formula, the patients analyzed showed an improvement in symptoms, such as bloating or flatulence, thanks to the content of papain, a substance that promotes digestion.
Contraindications
Despite all its benefits, it is not recommended to consume papaya if:
- Do you have frequent digestive problems
- You are in the process of diarrhea.
- You are being treated with diuretics
- Suffers with kidney stones.
