Papaya is Good For Diabetes

Papayas are delicious tropical fruits that contain papain, an enzyme that can be used as a digestive aid to help digest protein foods like meat, poultry, and seafood. But does this enzyme also reduce blood glucose levels in people with diabetes? Here’s what the science says about papaya and diabetes.

What is Papaya (Carica papaya)?

Papaya is a type of fruit that grows on trees in tropical regions throughout the world. This fruit is high in dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and carotenoids, as well as several essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. Papayas also contain an enzyme called papain which breaks down protein to help with digestion.

Health benefits of Papaya

Papaya is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins which can help protect against many diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Papayas also contain potassium, which can regulate blood pressure, and vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that helps keep your immune system strong. One cup of papaya contains about 250% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C!

Papayas are also low in calories and carbohydrates - one cup has just 49 calories and 10 grams of carbs.

How does Papaya help with Diabetes?

There are a number of nutrients in Papaya that may help with Diabetes, including fiber, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Fiber helps to lower blood glucose levels by slowing down digestion and preventing spikes in insulin after eating. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in cells, which can help with insulin resistance or other complications associated with Diabetes. Beta-carotene helps increase our body's ability to use insulin properly.

Risks/Side effects of Papayas

Papayas are generally considered a safe food, but there are some risks associated with them as with any other food item. The most common side effect is an upset stomach, which can be remedied by reducing or eliminating the intake of this fruit until symptoms subside.

Conclusion

Papayas are high in carbohydrates and sugar, which means they may not be the best fruit to eat if you're struggling with diabetes. However, eating a moderate amount of this tropical fruit doesn't seem to have any negative effects on blood glucose levels, which is why it might be worth eating in moderation as part of a healthy diet.