The tropical climate of Jamaica makes it ideal for a plethora of fruits to thrive on the island. These include fruits such as the orange, guinep, papaya and banana, which can be found across the island.

Not only are these fruits quite tasty, but they also provide a number of health benefits. This, is the one in the series on health benefits that Jamaica-found fruits are able to provide, and, for today, the focus is on the Papaya.

The papaya, also called papaw or pawpaw, is native to Mexico, and grows in tropical countries such as Brazil, Indonesia and Nigeria. The soft fleshy fruit was once exotic and rare but can be now be found most times of the year.

Health Benefits

Asthma Prevention

Beta-carotene found in papaya is a nutrient that can help to lower the risk of contracting asthma when consumed in large amounts.

When consumed, the body turns beta-carotene into Vitamin A which plays a critical role in cell growth and maintaining healthy organs such as the lungs and kidneys.

Lowers risk of heart disease and diabetes

The vitamin, fibre and potassium content found in the fruit can help to fend off heart disease.

Studies have shown that fibre reaps healthy results for people suffering from both type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Persons with type-1 diabetes who consume fibre in large amounts have lower glucose levels.

Those suffering from type-2 diabetes experience an improved blood sugar level as well as lipids and insulin levels. A papaya can provide up to three grams of fibre, which is the equivalent to 17 grams of carbohydrates.

Improves skin, hair and healing

Mashed papaya, when topically applied (placed on an area on the skin), helps with wound healing and can also prevent the infection of burnt areas.

Proteolytic enzymes, chymopapain and papain are components believed to help with the skin.

• Papain – promotes the healing of the skin and causes the enzymes to enhance the secretion of collagen which promotes elasticity and maintains the health of the skin.
• Proteolytic enzymes – these help to break down protein which helps to heal and repair damaged tissue.
• Chymopapain – this enzyme decreases inflammation and helps reduce acne.

A good source of Vitamin A, which is needed for healthy hair, Papaya improves sebum production, which keeps hair moisturised.

Reduce risk of cancer

Beta-carotene not only helps with lowering the risk of asthma, but lowering the risk of cancer as well. Beta-carotene has strong anti-oxidant effects which protect lipid peroxidation and provitamin-A activity, thereby preventing oxidative damage, which in some cases can lead to cancer.

Improves digestion

Papain, one of the enzymes found in papaya, aids in digestion. Papain is also used as a meat tenderiser. Rich in fibre and water content, consuming the fruit can also help to prevent constipation and maintain a healthy digestive tract.

Lowers risk of Inflammation

Choline, another nutrient found in the fleshy fruit, assists in maintaining the structure of the cellular membrane, helps to reduce chronic inflammation and absorbs fat.