Papaya is rich in vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, making it beneficial for health. Papaya is sometimes called ‘the fruit of the angels’, a term reportedly used by Christopher Columbus to describe the fruit.

Digestive health

Papaya can be very beneficial for the health of the digestive system. It contains two enzymes, papain and chymopain, which aid the digestion of protein. Papaya is also a rich source of fibre, making it a good natural remedy for problems such as constipation.

It is thought that consumption of papaya juice may help conditions such as nausea and infections of the colon.

The antioxidants in papaya may also help to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Cardiovascular health

Papaya can help to lower cholesterol, as it is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene. When cholesterol becomes oxidised it can build up in blood vessel walls, which could cause a heart attack or a stroke. These vitamins are all powerful antioxidants that can help to prevent cholesterol from oxidising.

The folic acid which is present in papaya can also be beneficial for heart health. Folic acid is required to convert homocysteine into amino acids, as it can cause damage to blood vessel walls if not converted.

Papaya also contains potassium, which is vital for heart function.

Boosting the immune system

Papaya is an excellent source of vitamin C, with one portion containing more than 140% of the recommended daily allowance. Vitamin C is required for a healthy immune system, as well as for maintaining healthy tissue and promoting the healing of wounds.

Vitamin A, which is also found in papaya, is necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. A single serving of papaya provides more than 30% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A.

Anti-inflammatory

The vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene found in papaya have anti-inflammatory properties. It is thought that papaya may be beneficial for those suffering from asthma and arthritis, as inflammation can worsen these conditions.

Eye health

There are properties in papaya that can help to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. It is thought that adding papaya to your diet could also provide protection against cataracts.

Healthy skin

The antioxidants found in papaya can help to control premature skin ageing and keep the skin looking young. Papaya can also be used to make a face mask, which can remove blemishes and soften the skin. A papaya face mask may also be beneficial for dry skin.

How to eat papaya

Papaya can be included in both sweet and savoury dishes. It is often used in salsa and salads, but is can also be added to meat and fish recipes. There are many sweet dishes that it can be used in, such as fruit salad or mousse. It can also be baked and served with yoghurt, or added to a smoothie.

Papaya can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack in fresh or dried form, or you may like to try papaya juice. There are many ways to use papaya, so it should be easy to add to your diet.