This pear-shaped, sweet, juicy fruit has more vitamin C than an orange. It is described as "the fruit of the angels" by Christopher Columbus because it has a soft texture that almost resembles butter. Papayas were once rare and exotic, but are now common in supermarket chains. Papaya peak season is in the early fall. The tree is a tropical plant and can bear fruit all year.
Many phytochemicals are found in yellow and orange-colored fruits and vegetables, including some papaya varieties. Plant foods are rich in phytochemicals, including bioflavonoids and carotenoids. These substances have potential health benefits. Discover more about papaya health benefits through https://www.rubyrise.com.au/health-and-nutrition.
Papaya has many health benefits.
High levels of vitamin C provide protection against heart disease and prevent atherosclerosis. High levels of antioxidant vitamins A, E, and carotenoid phytochemicals help to prevent cholesterol from building up in the arteries.
* Protects against the development of colon cancer through a complex nutrition source of antioxidants and phytochemicals as well as minerals and fiber.
* Papaya and other fruits may be more effective than carrots in protecting against age-related macular damage. The risk of developing this eye disease among older adults is reduced by eating three to five fruits per day.
The fruit is rich in two proteolytic enzymes, papain and chymopapain which allow the digestion of proteins. The most important and plentiful of these enzymes, papain, is extracted from the green fruit and dried. It is a primary ingredient in natural digestive aids and has been used for many years to tenderize meats, heal wounds and soften the skin.