Papaya is a popular breakfast food and for good reason! Those that eat it frequently know that papaya is one of the healthiest foods out there and it’s not only high in fiber, but it’s also packed with antioxidants and nutrients that help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
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Why Papaya?
Papaya has a variety of vitamins, such as vitamin C, fiber, vitamin A, magnesium, potassium and folic acid. This fruit can keep you full early in the morning, but in addition it can help with:
Foods that are high in vitamin C like papaya can help protect you against rheumatoid arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties help relieve arthritis, joint disease, swelling, pain and even redness.
Cancer
Most people just eat the orange part of the papaya, but the seeds are just as powerful. In fact papaya seeds can stop the growth of cancer cells and tumors and include isothiocyanate, which can fight some cancers.
Digestion
A lot of people have problems with constipation and papaya can help with digestion and keep you regular because it’s high in fiber.
Birth Control
Sounds crazy, but people have been using papaya as birth control for many years. In countries like Southeast Asia men use the fruit and seeds to reduce sperm production.
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Diabetes
Studies show that people that follow a high-fiber diet can benefit from lowering their blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetics can benefit from improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels.
Protects Your Eyes
Zeaxanthin is an antioxidant found in papaya and it helps filter blue light rays which can protect eyes from macular degeneration.
Heart Disease
Papaya has powerful antioxidants that help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, which is what builds up in the blood vessel walls that lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Did you know that papaya is used in cosmetic products? This is because papaya has nutrients that are beneficial to your skin, such as zinc, vitamin A, B and C. It can help reduce acne and prevent germs from clogging your pores, not to mention that it helps give you glowing skin.
Detox liver and kidneys
Many drink papaya in the form of a smoothie because it can help you detox your kidneys and liver. Papaya helps neutralize toxins in the liver and papaya seeds can improve kidney health and even prevent renal failure.
As you can see, papaya is not only a delicious fruit, but it can also help keep you healthy. You can start out your day eating a plate of papaya on its own or you can add a little bit of salt and lemon to give it more flavor. You can also try using it as a detox in the form of a smoothie, since some people do not like the smells of papaya. Don’t forget about the seeds! The seeds can be eaten raw or crushed and used with other foods, such as salads. It doesn’t matter how you’re eating this nutritious fruit, just make sure you add it to your grocery list the next time you’re at the supermarket.