Why is it worth eating papaya? It is sweet, goes great with cocktails, fruit salads, and can also be added to sweet breakfasts. In the following article we will take a closer look at the properties papaya and their seeds.
Papaya, specifically papayais a plant belonging to the melon family. Due to its health-promoting properties and delicious, sweet taste, it is also called “fruit of angels”. Occurs in subtropical and tropical climates, it is commonly grown in South America, Central America, and the warm states of North America. The largest producers of papaya are the United States and Mexico.
Papaya fruits are quite large, growing to about 45 cm in length and 30 cm in diameter. They are pear-shaped, their skin is green, yellow and orange in color, while the flesh is yellow-orange. The inside of the fruit contains tiny, black seeds.
Eating papaya has a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks, helps reduce too high levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. It has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, and also has a positive effect on immunity. It is a source of many substances with antioxidant properties. Additionally these fruits have a beneficial effect on the digestion process, are rich in fiber and also contain a digestive enzyme called papain.
Papaya contains, among others:
- vitamin Awhich has a strong antioxidant effect, supports eye health and skin appearance,
- B vitaminssupport the circulatory, nervous and muscular systems, and also participate in metabolic processes taking place in the body,
- vitamin Cis a natural antioxidant, supports immunity, collagen synthesis and iron absorption,
- beta-carotenea dye with an antioxidant effect, which is responsible for the orange color of the fruit, has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, also affects the circulatory system, protects the eyes against diseases, and also affects the appearance of the skin,
- potassiumhelps regulate blood pressure and water and electrolyte balance,
- magnesiumis responsible for the proper condition of the cardiovascular, nervous, muscular and skeletal systems,
- calciumstrengthens bones and teeth,
- unsaturated fatty acidssupport the circulatory system, including the heart, help maintain normal cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and have a beneficial effect on the nervous system.
Small papaya seeds have a distinct, sharp and even bitter taste. They are generally considered edible, but should not be eaten in large quantities. Most common in Central and South American countries they are dried, ground and used as a spice. They are credited liver supporting effectand are also believed to have antiparasitic properties. They contain an enzyme called papain, which contributes to better digestion. They also have antioxidant properties.
Papaya seeds taste like pepper, so they are used in ground form as a substitute. These seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. This fact is worth treating as a culinary curiosity, because opinions on their use are divided. Some experts consider them bitter and recommend removing them before eating the fruit, while others say they are a valuable addition to the diet.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, dietetyki.org.pl, spleka.pl
