Starting your day with ripe papaya is a healthy habit, but adding raw papaya to your diet is equally beneficial. With its mild, slightly bitter taste and crunchy texture, raw papaya is perfect for salads, stir-fries, and curries. Rich in essential nutrients, it supports digestion, boosts immunity, and aids weight loss.
Nutritional value of raw papaya
Hundred grams of raw papaya has the following nutrients, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture:
- Water: 88.1 grams
- Protein: 0.47 grams
- Carbohydrate: 10.8 grams
- Fibre: 1.7 grams
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Magnesium: 21 mg
- Potassium: 182 mg
- Vitamin C: 60.9 mg
- Vitamin E: 0.3 mg
- Vitamin A: 950 micrograms
- Beta carotene: 274 micrograms
Top 10 health benefits of raw papaya:
- Aids digestion: Contains papain, which helps break down proteins, easing bloating and constipation.
- Boosts immunity: Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, helping protect against infections.
- Supports weight loss: Low in calories and high in fiber, keeping you full longer and aiding weight management.
- Improves heart health: Potassium regulates blood pressure, while fiber and antioxidants lower bad cholesterol.
- Regulates blood sugar: Low glycemic index and high fiber, helping stabilize blood sugar, beneficial for diabetics.
- Promotes liver health: Antioxidants prevent fat buildup, supporting liver function.
- Reduces inflammation: Phytochemicals like papain help fight inflammation, beneficial for arthritis.
- Enhances skin health: Vitamins and enzymes repair damaged skin and delay aging.
- Boosts energy: Optimizes nutrient absorption, enhancing energy levels and metabolic function.
- Relieves period cramps: Papain stimulates estrogen production, reducing menstrual pain and cramps.
Raw papaya benefits: Is it good for the uterus?
Yes, raw papaya supports the detoxification process in the body. Papain, which aid in breaking down toxins and improving digestion, indirectly support uterine health by promoting a clean internal system.
Besides this, its anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce uterine inflammation or discomfort caused by certain conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.
Despite raw papaya benefits, it is not recommended during pregnancy because it contains latex. “It can stimulate uterine contractions and potentially lead to pregnancy complications, including miscarriage,” says Dr Thukral.
What are the side effects of eating raw papaya?
Raw papaya benefits are many, but there are a few side effects too:
Risk of miscarriage: Pregnant women should avoid it as the latex content can induce uterine contractions.
Allergic reactions: Some people may develop allergies to papaya enzymes, causing itching or respiratory issues.
Digestive discomfort: Overeating raw papaya may lead to diarrhea, bloating, or an upset stomach due to its high fibre content.
There are many raw papaya benefits, as it is loaded with nutrients. It can support digestion, and immunity while promoting weight loss, skin health, and heart health. But have this unripe fruit in moderation as it may lead to digestive discomfort.
Source: Healthshots.com
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
