Papaya is a delicious tropical fruit. It
is known as Angel Fruit. It is loved by all for its sour-sweet taste 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 vibrant fruit are also very beneficial? Today, in this
article, I will share with you the valuable nutrients, the top 10 amazing
health benefits of papaya seeds and how to eat them. Let's first know
about the valuable nutritional content of papaya seeds.
Nutritional Value of Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds 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 It also contains antioxidants like
flavonoids and polyphenols.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Papaya Seeds
1. Protect your 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.
2. 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. Besides, The fiber in papaya seeds helps to
regulate bowel movements and maintain a healthy gut.
3. 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.
4. Improve Liver Function
The seeds are known for their detoxifying
properties. Studies suggest that they help to protect the liver and promote the
regeneration of damaged liver cells.
5. Improve Kidney Function
Papaya seeds protect kidneys from
toxin-induced damage. They have potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
properties that help maintain kidney function and prevent infections.
6. Boost Immunity
The vitamins and antioxidants in papaya
seeds boost the immune system and make the body more resilient to infections
and diseases. Regular consumption of papaya seeds helps ward off colds, flu and
other infections.
7. Reduce inflammation
Chronic inflammation is at the root of
many diseases. Papaya seeds contain enzymes that have strong anti-inflammatory
effects. They reduce inflammation in the body and help in conditions like
arthritis or joint pain.
8. Help in Weight Loss
The seeds are rich in fiber. It helps you
feel fuller for longer and reduces appetite. Including them in your diet can
help in weight loss by preventing overeating and improving digestion.
9. Improves Skin
For the antioxidants and essential fatty
acids in papaya seeds, the skin is always clearer and healthy. They help to
fight off free radicals that cause wrinkles, age spots and other signs of
premature aging.
10. Balance Cholesterol Levels
Papaya seeds are rich in healthy fats like
oleic acid. It lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol
(HDL). It also helps to maintain a healthy heart and reduce the risk of
cardiovascular diseases.
Read more:
How to Eat Papaya Seeds
You have already known the amazing health
benefits of papaya seeds. Now you may be wondering how to eat papaya
seeds. Yes, some easy ways to include papaya seeds in your diet have been
mentioned below:
1. Raw Papaya Seeds
You can eat the seeds directly from a ripe
papaya. They have a slightly bitter and peppery taste. So, start eating papaya
seeds with a small amount around 1 teaspoon.
2. Dried Papaya Seeds
Dry the seeds in the sun or a dehydrator.
Then grind them into a powder. Use this powder as a spice like black pepper to
season your salads, soups or meats.
3. Papaya Seed Smoothie
Add a few fresh or dried seeds to your
favorite fruit smoothie. The other ingredients can help mask the strong taste
of the seeds along with enjoying their health benefits.
4. Papaya Seed Salad Dressing
Mix ground papaya seeds with lemon juice,
olive oil and a bit of honey to create a healthy and tangy salad dressing.
5. Papaya Seed Tea
Crush a few dried papaya seeds and steep
them in hot water to make a detoxifying tea. If you want, you can add honey or
lemon to increase the flavor
Frequently Asked Questions about papaya seeds
1. Are papaya seeds safe to eat?
Yes, papaya seeds are safe to eat in
moderation. However, eating large quantities can be harmful due to their strong
compounds. So, start with small amounts and increase gradually if your body
tolerates them well.
2. What do papaya seeds taste like?
Papaya seeds have a bitter and peppery
taste somewhat similar to mustard seeds or black pepper.
3. Can pregnant women eat papaya seeds?
Generally, pregnant women are advised to
avoid papaya seeds because they can stimulate uterine contractions. In the case
of pregnant women, always consult a doctor before eating them during pregnancy.
4. How many papaya seeds should I eat a day?
It is recommended to start with 1 teaspoon
per day and not to exceed 1 tablespoon daily to avoid potential side effects
like stomach upset or toxicity.
5. What are the side effects of eating papaya seeds?
Eating too many papaya seeds can cause
stomach upset, nausea and in rare cases, toxicity due to the seeds’ potent
compounds. So, always eat papaya seeds in moderation.
6. Can I store papaya seeds in the fridge?
Yes, you can store papaya seeds in the fridge. Fresh seeds can be refrigerated and used within a week. Besides, you can store dried papaya seeds in an airtight container for up to a year.
Finally, Papaya seeds are a treasure trove
of health benefits. From improving digestion to boosting immunity, they can be
a valuable addition to your 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 live a healthier life.
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