Fruits are often associated with a balanced diet. Rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, they are part of the recommendations of a healthy diet. However, not all that is natural is necessarily harmless, and excessive consumption of certain foods can cause undesirable effects.
Natural, but with limits
Among the examples is a rather present tropical fruit in the Portuguese tables, known for its beneficial action in the digestive tract. Rich in fiber and an enzyme that helps digestion, can be an ally when consumed in moderation.
However, according to the Tribuna de Minas, in large quantities, this same fruit can cause discomforts such as diarrhea, heartburn and abdominal pain.
The papain enzyme, naturally present in papaya, stimulates the production of gastric juices. When in excess, it can cause stomach irritation, especially in more sensitive people or with a history of digestive problems. According to the same source, what is therapeutic in small doses can become harmful when exaggerated.
The accumulation of fiber and enzyme in the body can unbalance the intestinal functioning, generating episodes of gastrointestinal malaise. In these cases, papaya is no longer an ally of digestion and contributes to the aggravation of symptoms.
Recommended quantity
As the Minas Tribuna indicates, it is not necessary to eliminate the papaya from food. On the contrary: when consumed in moderation, it offers important benefits.
The daily dose advised 140 grams, which corresponds to about half of an average papaya. This amount allows you to take advantage of fruit nutrients without risks.
According to the same source, excessive consumption can also lead to the loss of essential nutrients as a result of repeated diarrhea episodes.
In addition, continuing use in large portions can alter the balance of intestinal flora and cause more damage than benefits.
People with gastritis, reflux or other digestive disorders should be specially cautious. As reported by Tribuna de Minas, there are cases where the exaggerated consumption of papaya aggravated the clinical picture of the sick.
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How to include in the routine
Papaya can be consumed to breakfast, taking advantage of its effects on digestion early in the day. According to the same source, it is also a good alternative to desserts, helping to control the desire to eat sweets and favoring intestinal transit after the main meals.
Those who practice physical activity can benefit from their antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory action. Still, consumption should respect the recommended dose, as excess can nullify its positive effects, as warned the same source.
It is common to see this fruit in shakes, salads or tropical side dishes. However, it recommends that it does not repeat its consumption in various meals on the same day, avoiding overloading the digestive system.
Benefits yes, but with balance
Source of vitamins A, C and E, in addition to folate and potassium, papaya contributes to the reinforcement of the immune system, skin health and the proper functioning of the intestines. But, as the same source recalls, these positive effects only remain when there is balance in consumption.
The idea that all natural foods are harmless can lead to poorly conscious choices. Even healthier foods should be integrated into a varied and balanced diet, always respecting the body’s needs and limits.
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