Papaya is a delicious fruit. It is known
as Angel Fruit. It is loved by all for its flavor and juicy flesh. It is
packed with valuable nutrients and health benefits. You may know that papaya is
very beneficial. But do you know that the seeds inside this fruit are also
beneficial? Usually, many people discard papaya
seeds and eat only the sweet flesh. They don’t know that the seeds are not only
edible but also highly nutritious. Today, in this article, I will share
the valuable nutrients, the top 10 marvelous health benefits of papaya seeds
and how to eat them. Let's first know about the valuable nutrients of
papaya seeds.
The Secret Power of Papaya Seeds
Nutritional Value of Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds are exceptionally nutritious.
They contain papain, an enzyme, healthy fats like oleic acid, high fiber, amino
acids, antiparasitic alkaloids (carpaine) and anti-inflammatory compounds like
benzyl isothiocyanate and small amounts of calcium and magnesium They also
contain antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols.
Benefits of Papaya Seeds
1. Boost Immunity
Papa seeds are a great natural immune
booster. The vitamins and antioxidants in papaya seeds boost the immune system
and protect the body from infections and diseases. So, eating papaya seeds
regularly helps prevent colds, flu and other infections.
2. Protect Cells from Damage
Papaya seeds are packed with antioxidants
like flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds fight oxidative stress and
protect your cells from damage. They also reduce the risk of chronic diseases
like cancer and heart disease.
3. Help in Weight Loss
Papaya seeds are rich in fiber. They help
keep the stomach full for a long time and reduce appetite. If you add them to
your diet, they can help in weight loss by preventing overeating and improving
digestion.
4. Help in Digestion
Papaya seeds contain papain, an enzyme. It
helps in digestion by breaking down proteins. It also helps in bloating,
indigestion and constipation. Apart from this, the fiber in papaya seeds helps
to regulate bowel movements and maintain a healthy gut.
5. Clean Natural Parasite
Papaya seeds are used as a natural remedy
to remove intestinal parasites. They contain compounds like carpaine and benzyl
isothiocyanate which kill harmful microorganisms in your digestive system.
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6. Improve Kidney Function
Papaya seeds protect kidneys from damage.
They have potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help
maintain kidney function and prevent infections.
7. Increase Liver Function
Papa seeds are known for their detoxifying
properties. Studies show that they help to protect the liver and improve the
regeneration of damaged liver cells.
8. Protect against Cancer
Papaya seeds contain
powerful antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids. They fight free radicals
and reduce the risk of cancer. They are rich in isothiocyanates which oppose
the growth of cancer cells. Besides, their anti-inflammatory properties help reduce
the risk of cancer.
9. Keep the Heart Healthy
Papaya seeds are rich in fiber and healthy
fats. They keep the heart healthy by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and
improving good cholesterol (HDL) levels. They are also packed with antioxidants
like polyphenols. These polyphenols reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk
of heart disease.
10. Keep Skin Healthy
The antioxidants and essential fatty acids
in papaya seeds keep the skin clearer and healthy. They help to fight off free
radicals that cause wrinkles, age spots and other signs of premature aging.
How to Eat Papaya Seeds
You have already known the marvelous
health benefits of papaya seeds. Now you may be wondering how to eat papaya
seeds. Yes, some easy ways to eat papaya seeds have been mentioned below:
1. Raw Papaya Seeds
You can eat papaya seeds directly from a
ripe papaya. They taste slightly bitter and peppery. So, eat papaya seeds with
a small amount of around 1 teaspoon.
2. Dried Papaya Seeds
Dry the papaya seeds in the sun. Then
grind them into powder. Use this powder as a spice like black pepper in salads,
soups or with meat.
3. Papaya Seed Smoothie
To make a papaya seed smoothie, combine
fresh papaya, a teaspoon of its seeds, a banana and a little coconut water or
almond milk. Add a touch of honey for sweetness.
4. Papaya Seed Salad
Mix ground papaya seeds with lemon juice,
olive oil and a bit of honey to make a healthy and tangy salad.
5. Papaya Seed Tea
Grind some dried papaya seeds into powder.
Then soak this powder in hot water and make a tea. If you want, you can add
honey or lemon to increase the taste.
FAQ
1. Are papaya seeds safe to eat?
Yes, papaya seeds are safe to eat in
moderation. However, eating large amounts of papaya seeds can be harmful because of their strong compounds. So, eat small amounts and increase gradually if your
body tolerates them well.
2. What do papaya seeds taste like?
Papaya seeds taste slightly bitter and
peppery. They are somewhat similar to mustard seeds or black pepper.
In conclusion, Papaya seeds have many
marvelous health benefits. They are a valuable addition to a diet. However,
always eat them in moderation to avoid any side effects. Whether you eat them
raw, dried or blended into a smoothie, papaya seeds can help you lead a
healthy life.
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