by altruist
The papaya is an amazingly rich source of the proteolytic enzymes. These are the chemicals that enable the digestion of protein. Papain, which is the most important of these enzymes in the papaya, is extracted and dried as a powder for use to aid the digestion, and it is often used as a meat tenderizer, the enzyme partially breaking down the meat fibers - digesting them in fact.
The papaya is very nutrient rich, and contains vitamins A, C, E, as well as potassium, folate, fiber, calcium, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, lutein, lycopene, zeaxathin and digestive enzymes.Aside from the tremendous nutritional value of the papaya, it also does wonders for digestion. It is great for improving digestive health and can help with indigestion, acid reflux, constipation, and gastrointestinal distress.
As a natural remedy, papaya not only aids digestion but also helps prevent constipation. It provides relief from piles and also has anti-cancer properties. Papaya has also been shown to lower cholesterol levels, prevents the formation of urinary stones, prevents intestinal infection by parasites and aids in the proper functioning of the body's immune system. For lactating mothers, according to traditional beliefs, papaya also helps to stimulate milk production.
The papaya contains a natural pain reliever. A papaya paste was used traditionally for the relief of burns, cuts, rashes and stings. A compound known as papain is derived from the papaya fruit and has long been used as a natural meat tenderizer. It is believed that this enzyme may help the body digest meats and amino acids more efficiently.
By living a vegetarian lifestyle a person's overall health will be improved. A diet rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals reduce the risk of cancer. Lower saturated fats fight obesity and related diseases. The high fiber found in fruits and vegetables keep the colon moving at a proper pace reducing the risk for colon and prostrate cancers.
Some of the many positive health effects associated with eating papayas include:
* Offers protection against developing heart disease by preventing atherosclerosis of blood vessels due to its high vitamin C content. The high concentration of carotenoid phytochemicals and antioxidant vitamins A and E help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol that can build up inside artery walls.
* Provides protection against developing colon cancer with a complex nutritional source of antioxidants, phytochemicals, minerals, and fiber.
An antioxidant supplement should not be taken instead of eating a nutritious diet full of natural antioxidants, but as a part of an overall health plan. Unfortunately, the antioxidant needs of our bodies are likely to be higher than can be provided from consuming normal quantities of fruit and vegetables unless they are organic and grown in mineral rich soils. A high quality antioxidant supplement can make all the difference to your health.
Papaya is known for antioxidant power, vitamin C and is revered as a great digestive aid. You'll see many dieting ads suggesting you purchase a papaya diet supplement to get the maximum benefit from the extract. Whether you choose to purchase a supplement or simply choose to try to get more of this fruit in your diet, you can definitely benefit from a tasty and nutrition-packed smoothie.