The wonder fruit called pawpaw

Joy Anyim

Medical experts and nutritionists have often canvassed for the consumption of fruits and vegetables as the cheapest and safest way to wholesome living.

An example of such fruits that come with bumper health benefit is pawpaw or papaya as it is also called.

According to Christopher Columbus, an Italian voyager, papaya is the fruit of the angels. Papaya is one fruit that is extremely rich in Vitamin C and other nutrients needed to nourish the body.

Although papaya is relatively cheap, one can also grow them in a private garden at home, as it takes less than 24 months to mature.

The delicious fruit option can be enjoyed as breakfast, appetizer, salsa, smoothie, salad or dessert.

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For those who are yet to harness the many health benefits in this fruit, here are some  reasons why pawpaw should be a great first option for the young and elderly:

1. Papaya is good for diabetics: Papaya has a low-sugar content even though it is sweet to taste. Also, people who don’t have diabetes can eat pawpaw to prevent it from happening.
2. Lowers cholesterol: Papaya is rich in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants. These nutrients prevent cholesterol build up in the arteries. Too-much cholesterol build-ups can lead to heart diseases.
3. Boosts immunity: A healthy immune system acts as a shield against various infections that can make one sick. A single pawpaw has more than 200 percent of your daily need for vitamin C, which is great for your immunity.
4. Helps in weight loss: Pawpaw is very low in calories making it a healthy option for anyone seeking to lose weight. The fiber content in it also keeps you full for longer and helps bowel movement.
5. Protects against arthritis: Pawpaw is good for the bones. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that keep arthritis at bay.
6. Excellent for the eyes: Pawpaw has a generous dose of Vitamin A, which is excellent for the eyes. Even for the elderly, taking papaya keeps their sight in good condition.
7. Papaya improves digestion: This fruit has a digestive enzyme known as papain, which helps improve digestive health.
8. Ease menstrual pain: papain also helps to regulate menstrual pain and flow
9. If you desire to look younger with glowing skin, then papaya is one fruit you cannot afford to miss. The antioxidant and beta carotene in pawpaw keep you five years younger.
10. Phytonutrients and flavonoids that prevent cells from undergoing free radicals damage are present in papaya, making it one fruit that prevents cancer.
11. Helps to reduce stress: If you work long hours and would really want to relax your nerves daily, a serving of papaya may just do the needed magic.

The reasons why one should eat papaya cannot be exhausted, as this wonder fruit, which is almost always available is a plus anytime.

Many organic skin experts have even developed beauty products from this fruit, which has proved very effective.