Bloating, heartburn, and constipation are all gut-related issues that many people experience. A gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab explains that papaya may offer a lot of relief from any of these discomforts naturally. In a recent Instagram video, Dr. Salhab reviewed a number of benefits of the “gut-friendly superfruit” papaya, calling it the best fruit for gut health, and verifying that it as a true “superfruit” for gut health and overall wellness.
Papaya and gut issues
Because of its characteristics, Dr. Salhab, thinks of papaya as a “gut-friendly superfruit” when easing gut issues. Papaya is full of the digestive enzyme papain which breaks down protein. This means you digest proteins better. This leads to less constipation and bloating. Papaya has a large amount of fiber in it which helps naturally bulk the stool for regular bowel movements, among its other health benefits.
Papaya is high in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene that can decrease inflammation and oxidative stress which harms gut health. Dr. Salhab project that people should eat papaya straight, in salad, or blend as in a smoothie to get your digestive tract moving in the morning. Adding natural sweetener like honey, or cinnamon or even milk or coconut milk helps support healthy microbiome.
Benefits backed by science
Dr. Salhab’s claims have scientific evidence to back it up. Papaya falls into this category because the enzymes present in papaya can facilitate improved digestion of proteins and gut function. Hence, it is beneficial to someone with digestive issues such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Papaya is high in fiber which improves satiety making it easy to add to a weight loss diet. Also, it is quite low in calories and hydrating therefore it can help reduce energy intake whilst also keeping the individual nutrients.
Beyond digestion: Skin, heart and more!
Papaya is not just a gut saviour, it benefits the body in so many other ways. The enzymes and antioxidants in papaya help remove dead skin cells. It also reduces inflammation which can contribute to clearer and healthier skin. It is said that papaya improves digestion and skin radiance when eaten on an empty stomach. When taken consistently with a healthy diet, papaya is also heart healthy with nutrients such as potassium and fiber. These help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and blood flow which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Low sugar high fiber foods like papaya can be beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels and hypertension. Each serving of papaya contains Papain which can help regulate inflammation as well and function as a natural pain killer. Papaya is an incredible and powerful superfruit that supports gut health and has many other health benefits.
