Unexpected benefits of papaya - the 'longevity' fruit

According to the US Department of Agriculture, 145g of sliced ​​papaya provides 62 calories, 15g of carbohydrates, 2.5g of fiber, 11g of sugar, and less than 1g of fat. Papaya contains more vitamin C than oranges. This is an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system, protect cells from damage, and keep skin healthy.

Carotenoids in papaya are absorbed by the body more effectively than those in tomatoes and carrots. (Source: Medlatec Hospital)

In addition, papaya is in the group of fruits with high magnesium and vitamin A content and has a slightly sweet taste. Thanks to these benefits, papaya is known as the "longevity" fruit.

American nutritionist Maya Feller said: “Papaya is a great choice in the fruit group. This fruit contains many phenolic compounds and flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory effects and are good for human health.

These substances have powerful antioxidant properties, helping to reduce the damage caused by free radicals - harmful molecules created during the body's metabolism. Free radical damage can cause inflammation and increase the risk of cancer or other diseases, but the antioxidants in papaya can protect cells from that damage.

Papaya's distinctive orange-yellow color comes from carotenoids, especially beta-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and acts as an antioxidant. Another carotenoid, lycopene, may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

Research also shows that carotenoids in papaya are absorbed more effectively by the body than those in tomatoes and carrots.

Additionally, papaya contains fiber that supports a healthy digestive system and helps lower cholesterol. The high potassium content in papaya can help lower blood pressure, thereby improving heart health.

Some studies also suggest that papaya may aid in blood sugar control by affecting glucose and insulin responses.

Answering the question of whether one should eat papaya every day, expert Feller affirmed: "Absolutely."

Her family eats papaya every day and their health test results are all very good.

Pregnant women should not eat green papaya because it contains a lot of papain - an enzyme that can stimulate uterine contractions and harm the fetus. (Source: Freepik)

However, Ms. Feller emphasized that it is important to maintain a balanced diet. “Each fruit and vegetable has its own wonderful properties and works best when combined in a variety of ways in the diet. If you only eat papaya and skip oranges, lemons, kiwis, bananas, and pineapples, you will miss out on the nutrients from those fruits,” Ms. Feller said.

Pregnant women should not eat green papaya because it contains a lot of papain - an enzyme that can stimulate uterine contractions and harm the fetus.

People with latex allergies should also be cautious, as green papaya contains latex that can cause itching or swelling.

People taking blood thinning medications should consult their doctor before eating large amounts of papaya as it may increase the risk of bleeding. People with sensitive stomachs may experience diarrhea if they eat too much.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/loi-ich-bat-ngo-cua-du-du-trai-cay-truong-tho-329170.html