Papaya is a beloved fruit known for its delicious flavor and unique nutritional content. However, many people often discard the seeds, believing they are inedible. The truth is that papaya seeds are not only edible but also highly nutritious. Nevertheless, papaya seeds can cause side effects, so it’s essential to be cautious when consuming them.
Benefits of Papaya Seeds
1. Nutritional Value of Papaya Seeds
In 100g of dried papaya seeds, there are approximately 558 calories. These seeds are rich in protein, fats, and fiber, containing vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Papaya seeds are high in monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid and also contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants.
2. What Are the Effects of Papaya Seeds?
In addition to providing essential nutrients, papaya seeds offer numerous health benefits.
2.1. Good for Digestion
Papaya seeds contain the enzyme papain, which aids digestion. Additionally, the seeds are rich in fiber, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Studies have shown that fiber can protect the digestive system, combat inflammatory bowel disease, alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms, and prevent intestinal ulcers.
Consuming a small amount of papaya seeds after meals can help break down protein and improve digestion, reducing symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and indigestion.
Papaya seeds contain the papain enzyme and fiber that are good for digestion. (Image: Internet).
2.2. Liver Detoxification
Papaya seeds are known for their ability to support liver health due to their compounds that can help detoxify the liver and protect it from damage caused by toxins and excessive alcohol consumption.
They are also believed to help manage symptoms of liver cirrhosis. Consuming 3 to 4 crushed papaya seeds mixed with lemon juice daily may aid in treating and recovering from liver cirrhosis.
2.3. Antibacterial Properties
Papaya seeds possess antibacterial properties that can help combat various bacterial infections in the body, including bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.
You can crush papaya seeds and mix them with honey to enhance their antibacterial effect.
2.4. Protecting Kidney Function
Some studies suggest that consuming papaya seeds can protect and maintain the health and function of the kidneys. This benefit may be attributed to their high antioxidant content, which prevents oxidative damage to your cells and protects kidney health.
Papaya seeds protect kidney function due to their antioxidant content. (Image: Internet).
2.5. Anti-inflammatory Effects
The anti-inflammatory properties of papaya seeds may help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, such as arthritis and heart disease. Incorporating papaya seeds into your diet appropriately may help manage these conditions.
2.6. Parasitic Worm Elimination
Papaya seeds have long been used as a natural remedy to eliminate intestinal parasites. The seeds contain an alkaloid called carpaine, which has been shown to be effective against parasitic worms. Consuming a small amount of freshly ground papaya seeds on an empty stomach can help eliminate parasites.
2.7. Immune System Boosting
Papaya seeds are rich in antioxidants, which can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body from pathogens. Adding papaya seeds to your diet may boost your immune system and enhance overall health.
Papaya seeds can help boost the immune system. (Image: Internet).
2.8. Anticancer Properties
Some studies suggest that papaya seeds may have anticancer properties due to their impressive nutritional and antioxidant content. Additionally, compounds found in papaya seeds, such as isothiocyanates, have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. However, further research is needed in this area to fully understand their impact.
2.9. Good for Cardiovascular Health
As previously mentioned, papaya seeds contain antioxidants, including phenolic compounds that may help reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These seeds may also help reduce cholesterol levels and maintain healthy blood pressure.
3. Are There Any Health Risks Associated with Papaya Seeds?
While papaya seeds are linked to various health benefits, they also pose some health concerns.
- Some studies suggest that consuming large amounts of papaya seeds may reduce fertility in men.
- Excessive consumption of papaya seeds may cause diarrhea.
- Overconsumption of papaya seeds is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Particularly, eating too many of these seeds during pregnancy may harm the developing fetus.
- Papaya seeds contain benzyl isothiocyanate, a compound associated with several health benefits, especially in cancer prevention. However, some studies indicate that it may be harmful in large amounts, causing significant DNA damage. Nevertheless, more research is needed to demonstrate the harmful effects of papaya seeds on health.
Overall, the side effects of papaya seeds are typically due to excessive consumption. However, to ensure safety, it is advisable to consult a professional before adding these seeds to your diet.
