Raw or Ripe Papaya: Which is Best for Your Health

Papaya is a small fruit tree that can be used for various purposes with its fruit, leaves, seeds, etc. People consume both raw and ripe papaya as the two has different taste and different benefits. While the ripe one is fleshy and tasty, the raw papaya is cooked as curry, uses in salad, dessert, pickle, or smoothie.

Due to its innumerable health advantages, people prefer raw papaya than the ripe fruit.

Health benefits of Raw Papaya 

Here are the amazing benefits of raw papaya; 

Promotes good digestive health

Raw papaya cures gastrointestinal issues because it contains two potent natural enzymes papain and chymopapain and an abundance of dietary fiber. It also helps to treat abnormal digestion, heartburn, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and intestinal worms. 

Reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack

Raw papaya is rich in cardenolides and saponins, which significantly prevent congestive heart failure by strengthening the contraction of the heart muscles. The presence of beta-sitosterol and quercetin is able to promote absorption of cholesterol by the intestines. It thus leads to reducing the level of cholesterol in the blood, which helps to avoid the risk of heart diseases like stroke and heart attack.  

Manages diabetes

Green papaya comprises minerals like potassium, magnesium, zinc, chromium, and calcium. It helps to manage glucose levels in the body. These minerals are also helpful to enhance the release of insulin. It can also work against key enzymes, which are responsible for type 2 diabetes. 

Boosts Immune System

The unripe papaya is loaded with saponins, tannins, beta-carotene, magnesium, and flavonoids, which are crucial antioxidants for the human body. It is essential to maintain the defense system by increasing the levels of IgG and IgM antibodies. 

Good for Stomach

Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which is effective for digestion and a remedy against constipation. Raw papaya cleanses the body and removes toxins. Consuming raw papaya on an empty stomach aids you to clears the gastrointestinal tract and flushing out toxins. However, it must be noted that no food should be consumed for an hour after consuming raw papaya.  

Helps in weight loss

The unripe papaya is low in calories as compared to the fruit. It is a good source of dietary fiber and resistant starch. The raw papaya can be used to deduct the total cholesterol levels and also reduce body weight. 

Promote breast milk production

It is the presence of proteolytic enzymes papain and chymopapain in raw papaya, which enhances the production of breast milk. The vital vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in the quality and supply of breast milk. Moreover, it is accredited as 'SAFE' by the US Food and Drug Administration. 

Why raw papaya is better than ripe papaya 

Raw papaya is low in sugar and has high fiber and low-fat content. Comparatively, raw papaya consists of latex that has cleansing properties. The unripe one has sources of potassium and magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium. It has a longer- life span for storage as compared to the ripe fruit because raw papaya contains less moisture content.