Healthy eyes, beautiful skin: 5 ways papaya benefits you
Papaya is a juicy and nutritious tropical fruit with a distinct flavor that is not usually preferred by many. However, the orange-colored fleshy fruit is packed with vitamins A, C, folate, fiber, potassium, protein, magnesium, beta-carotene, and several other nutrients that provide your body with innumerable health benefits. Christopher Colombus termed papaya the fruit of angels. Read on to know more!
Here is what our expert says
Papayas are popular in folk medicine in the south-east asian subcontinent. Amongst fruits, papayas have a high phenolic acid and flavonoid profile and they are a good source of minerals such as iron, zinc, cobalt, and copper. Papain, an enzyme found in papaya, improves the digestion of proteins. Phenols and flavonoids boost immunity via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral activity.
Aids in digestion
High in water content and loads of fiber, papaya is a great fruit to include in your diet to help ease digestion. It helps your liver to digest saturated fats and unhealthy fast foods. A digestive enzyme called papain in papayas breaks down the food and shields the tissues lining your digestive tract. Consume papaya daily after your meal to ensure healthy digestion.
Improves your heart health
Papayas are high in phytochemicals and antioxidants that help to boost your heart health and keep cardiovascular diseases at bay. The potassium, fibers, and vitamin C in papayas maintain the health of your arteries by promoting a healthy flow of blood. These fruits also maintain your cholesterol levels by enhancing the positive effects of good cholesterol in your body that ward off heart ailments.
Helps in weight loss
Papayas are a low-calorie fruit that helps to regulate your weight. Also, the high amount of fiber in it keeps you full for a longer time. Papayas promote healthy digestive functions and boost your immunity, helping in healthy weight loss. Papaya seeds are also beneficial for preventing your body from absorbing fats. Start consuming the fruit two-three days every week to achieve proper results.
Promotes skin health
Papaya is a great source of lycopene and vitamins A, C, and E, which make your skin look bright, toned, and youthful. Lycopene and vitamin C helps to prevent sun damage and signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Papaya is also rich in alpha-hydroxy acids that eliminate the layers of dead cells and rejuvenate your skin, making it firmer.
Good for your eyes
The high amounts of vitamin A and antioxidants in papayas help to improve your eye health. Antioxidants help to prevent retinal degeneration that can cause various eye diseases, while vitamin A strengthens your cornea. Consuming this nutritious fruit every day can improve your overall vision and protect it from infections. The lutein and zeaxanthin in papayas also protect your eyes against harmful UV rays.
