Papaya is a tropical fruit that comes in a variety of sizes. The smaller varieties are generally sweeter than the larger ones. Papayas can be eaten raw or cooked and they are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Papayas are high in fiber and contain vitamin C, folate and beta-carotene. They also contain enzymes that help digestion and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

The papaya’s unique taste is due to its high levels of the enzyme papain, which breaks down protein into smaller pieces that can be more easily digested by the body. While this enzyme is beneficial for digestion, it’s also what gives papaya its bitter flavor.

Papain is used as an ingredient in many cosmetics, including facial cleansers, toothpastes and shampoos. It’s also used by athletes to reduce swelling after strenuous exercise because it breaks down proteins into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by cells more easily than large proteins would be able to do themselves.

Last modified: October 26, 2022