Supports the digestive system.
Papaya is a fairly good source of fiber that supports bowel movements, with about 2.5g of fiber in 145g of the fruit. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information in the US, the daily fiber requirement for adults ranges from 25-38g.
This fruit also contains papain, an enzyme that can break down proteins, helping the body digest food more efficiently. Therefore, papaya can help prevent and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.
Boost your immune system.
145g of papaya almost meets the body's daily vitamin C requirement. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system, protecting cells from the effects of free radicals. This nutrient also contributes to increased resistance against infectious agents and diseases.
Protect your eye health.
Papaya is rich in lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin—compounds beneficial for vision. Lycopene helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in eye tissues, which can slow the formation and progression of cataracts.
Meanwhile, lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the retina, contributing to improved vision and slowing the onset of eye diseases. These two compounds also increase contrast sensitivity, reduce glare, and absorb and filter out harmful blue light.
Reduce inflammation in the body.
Vitamin C, along with lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin in papaya, are all powerful antioxidants. They help neutralize free radicals—agents that can damage cells and DNA, leading to inflammation in the body.
Prolonged inflammation or oxidative stress is linked to many diseases such as Alzheimer's, arthritis, emphysema, heart disease, and premature aging.
Supports cardiovascular health.
According to the American Heart Association, papaya is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as lycopene—antioxidants that protect the heart.
Additionally, the fiber content in papaya can contribute to lowering cholesterol when combined with a healthy diet. This fruit is also rich in potassium, a mineral that regulates sodium levels in the body and helps control blood pressure.
Things to note when eating papaya
Papaya may interact with certain medications such as amiodarone, levothyroxine, diabetes medications, and warfarin. Therefore, people taking these medications should consult their healthcare provider before consuming papaya.
According to Medline Plus, green papaya contains more papain than ripe papaya. When consumed in large quantities, papain can irritate and damage the esophagus.
Pregnant women should avoid eating unripe papaya as it may increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriage. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional.
Additionally, papaya can cause allergies, especially in people who are allergic to latex.