Health benefits of papaya: A smart superfruit for weight loss, heart health and sweet cravings

Health benefits of papaya: The fruit boasts a remarkable array of essential nutrients, like thiamine, folate, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C and dietary fibre, that are a boon for your dietary requirements (Image: Canva)

Papaya is not just a delicious fruit, it's also a powerhouse of nutrition. Whether you eat it raw or cook it into your dishes, this 'common man's superfruit' will tickle your tongue and pamper your body. A regular serving of papaya in your diet can make your heart happy, your immune system strong, and your health awesome.

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The fruit is considered good for your health because it has mostly everything you'd need to keep your body in top shape. Its seeds can fight off nasty disease triggers, its leaves are good for your stomach, and the fruit can give you a boost of energy and glow. Papayas are loaded with vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as well as fibre and antioxidants that can make you look younger and smarter.

Here are some nutritional benefits and wellness wonders of papaya:

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Filled with nutritional richness: A healthy fruit, papaya boasts a remarkable array of essential nutrients that are a boon for your dietary requirements. These include, thiamine, folate, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins A, B1, B2, and C and dietary fibre.

Low-calorie, helps weight management: If you prefer to count your  calorie intake and maintain weight, papaya is a great option. With just 200 kJ per 100 gm, it's low in calories. Thanks to  its minimal fat and protein content, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy snack.

Brings natural sweetness: The principal sugars like glucose (29.8 gm/100 gm), sucrose (48.3 gm/100 gm), and fructose (21.9 gm/100 gm) present in papaya bring natural sweetness to your diet, making it a health friendly fruit that satisfies  your sweet cravings without compromising on nutrition.

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Possesses essential elements: Apart from vitamins and sugars, papaya also delivers vital elements like potassium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and magnesium in every 100 gram of fresh, ripened fruit.

Helps build immunity: Papaya is rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. A robust immune system defends the body against infections and illnesses. Adequate vitamin C intake can reduce the duration and severity of colds and respiratory infections.

Prevents indigestion and bloating: Papaya contains enzymes like papain, which improve digestion. These enzymes can help fight digestive issues such as indigestion and bloating, promoting a healthy gut. Papain supplements are sometimes used to treat digestive problems.

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Helps improve skin tone, heals wounds: The combination of vitamin C and vitamin A in papaya promotes collagen production, which helps keep the skin healthy and radiant. When applied externally, the use of crushed papaya may have a positive impact on expediting the healing process of wounds and safeguarding against infections in areas that have been burned.

Supports heart health: The fibre in papaya helps  in cholesterol management, thus supporting heart health. Additionally, the antioxidants in papaya may help reduce the risk of heart diseases. A high-fibre diet can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Manages inflammatory conditions: Anti-inflammatory foods can help manage chronic inflammatory conditions. Papaya contains enzymes and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. These can be beneficial for reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis and supporting joint health.