Refresh Yourself With Some Papaya!

As the warm weather is approaching us and continuing to get warmer, what better fruit to eat than a refreshing papaya! June is National Papaya Month,so add some color to your selection of food this summer by using papayas! This juicy delicacy can be found all year around, however, you should take advantage of this month as they reach their peak season.

Did you know that in Australia papayas are called “pawpaw”? Although this tropical fruit is widely known, there are various names for it depending on the country. For example, in Southern Asia, they call it “kapaya”, where as in South America you might hear it referred to as a “lechosa”. Whatever name it may go by, it sure is enjoyed around the world!

5 Surprising Benefits

Do not underestimate the power of papayas, as they are packed with nutrients. Here are 5 benefits that will help keep your body healthy:

High bioavailability of beta-carotene– Did you know that a papaya’s bioavailability is 3 times higher than that from carrots and tomatoes? This means that your body is able to absorb more nutrients from a papaya. Beta-carotene is the orange pigment that gives papayas its bright color.

Rich in vitamin A– Since they contain a high amount of beta-carotene, your body then uses this to convert it to vitamin A.Vitamin A is needed for normal growth, immunity and healthy vision.

Good source of vitamin C– This is needed for collagen production that is used by our skin and bones, is an antioxidant that helps keep our cells healthy and increases the absorption of other minerals like iron and copper.

Lots of Fiber– This plays a big role in digestion, as it passes through the digestive system and helps absorb nutrients from food. It also aids in regulating blood sugars, lowering cholesterol and keeping you full for longer.

Contains papain and chylopapain– These enzymes found in papayas can help reduce inflammation to prevent chronic diseases.

With all these health benefits, it’s important to get in your papayas! Not sure how to eat them?

Dice it up and to a fruit salad
Eat it plain and simple – YUM
Add into your homemade smoothie
Mix into your morning yogurt

See, it’s can be so simple to add them into your daily foods – It’s no wonder why they are widely consumed. Their sweet and tasty flavor makes them the perfect summer fruit!

Your turn to take action: How will you use papayas in your menu? Let me know in the comments below!