Pawpaw is a very tasty and delicious fruit that is common in the tropics. In other countries, it is called papaya. Pawpaw has so many health benefits to offer such as
improving wound healing and lowering hypertension. Consuming fruits and vegetables has been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of many diseases we face today.
Some of the nutritional content of pawpaw include:
Vitamin C
folate
Vitamin A
Fiber
Magnesium
Copper
Pantothenic acid
Alpha and beta carotene
Vitamin E
Calcium
Potassium
Vitamin K
Lycopene.
1 Cancer Prevention
The consumption of pawpaw has been shown to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer and prostate cancer. The anti-oxidant beta-carotene is responsible for reducing the risk of developing colon and prostate cancer. Some studies have also showed that eating pawpaw reduces the growth rate of breast cancer tumours.
2 Reducing the risk of developing asthma
Studies have shown that those who consume fruits rich in beta-carotene have a lower chances of developing asthma. Beta-carotene is also found in carrots, broccoli and apricots.
3 Promoting the healing of wounds
When pawpaw is applied topically, it is able to promote the healing of wounds. Pawpaw further helps in preventing burnt areas of the skin from being infected. This beneficial effects have been associated with papain, which is found in pawpaw. Ointments and creams that contain papain as an ingredient have been used to treat bed sores.
4 Healthy Hair
Pawpaw contains vitamin A which is very important for a healthy hair. Vitamin A helps in the growth of our hair and skin. Vitamin A also helps in the production of sebum, which naturally keeps our hair moisturized so that it doesn’t become brittle and dry.
5 Reducing the risk of developing Hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases
The potassium, fiber and vitamin content of pawpaw helps to reduce the risk of developing hypertension. When making dietary changes to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, it is important to eat more potassium and eat less sodium.
6 Relieves constipation and improves digestion
Pawpaw is rich in fiber and water, which eases digestion and helps to maintain a healthy digestive tract.
7 Weight loss
Pawpaw is rich in fiber and water. Eating fruits that are high in fiber and water makes you fuller which is an important aspect of weight loss.
8 Good for diabetics
Pawpaw is a good fruit for those who are diabetic. Even though it is sweet in nature, it has a low sugar content. Therefore, eating pawpaw will not cause an increase in blood glucose levels.
9 Good for the eyes
Eating pawpaw helps in improving vision and keeping the eye healthy. Pawpaw contains vitamin A and flavonoids that are responsible for keeping the mucus membranes of the eye healthy.