Papaya benefits: 5 reasons to eat a bowl of papaya first thing in the morning

Papaya is a vibrant and sweet fruit with a distinct flavour. Eating papaya first thing in the morning or on an empty stomach can bring various health benefits. This tropical fruit is rich in enzymes, antioxidants, and various nutrients, making it a valuable addition to your pre-breakfast diet. Papaya is a low-calorie fruit that is an excellent source of fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins like A, C, E, and K.

A slice of papaya weighing 157 grams contains about 68 calories. Those on a weight-loss regimen may find this fruit particularly beneficial due to its fiber content and low-calorie count.
Here are the key health benefits of consuming papaya on an empty stomach:

Weight loss support

If you’re looking to melt that belly fat, make friends with papaya. This fruit is the best for people who feel hungry often and don’t feel the need to starve themselves to lose weight. Papaya, when consumed first thing in the morning, can help you stave off hunger pangs through the day. Since it is low in calories and high in fiber, papaya helps control hunger and provides a sense of fullness, aiding in weight management.

Protect the heart

Papaya contains potassium, fiber, and vitamins, which help prevent heart-related issues. These nutrients can help normalize cholesterol levels and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Papaya, with its low sugar content and high fiber, helps in regulating blood sugar levels. This is beneficial for diabetics and prevents hypertension by maintaining stable blood sugar levels. The papain enzyme in papaya acts as a natural pain reliever and helps control inflammation through cytokine production.

Glowing skin

Papaya is a treasure trove for people who want to get glowing skin on a budget. Papaya’s natural enzymes and antioxidants help remove dead skin cells, clear pores, and prevent wrinkles, enhancing skin health. It also promotes wound healing and prevents infections in burned skin. When consumed first thing in the morning, papaya can soothe your gut health, and a good digestion is directly proportional to glowing skin.

Constipation relief

Eating papaya on an empty stomach can ease bowel movements due to its high fiber content, providing relief from constipation and improving digestive health. It’s digestive enzymes can help break down the food and detox your stomach completely. Consuming it in the morning can help you start your stomach functions on the right note.

Prevents cancer

Antioxidants in papaya, such as lycopene, inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce oxidative stress, lowering cancer risks. It is amazing for women’s health too. Papaya’s carotene can stimulate the uterus and help regulate the menstrual cycle, reducing period cramps and promoting regularity.

Side effects of eating papaya

However, there are certain side effects to consider when consuming papaya. One should be cautious when consuming green or semi-ripe papaya, as it contains high levels of latex. This concentrated form of latex may induce uterine contractions, which can lead to unplanned abortion, particularly in pregnant women. Excessive consumption may damage the esophageal lining and cause allergic reactions due to its latex content. People with low blood pressure and those prone to food allergies should be cautious. Papaya seeds, known to reduce sperm count, should also be consumed with care.