Papaya is a popular fruit in Vietnam, loved by many for its delicious and nutritious qualities. Today, we answer the question, “How many calories are in papaya? Can I gain weight from eating papaya?” in this article.
1 How many calories are in 100g of papaya?
On average, 100g of ripe papaya provides 42 calories, while green papaya of the same weight provides only 32 calories. Typically, ripe papaya has a higher calorie content than its unripe counterpart. Thus, papaya is a low-calorie fruit that can be easily consumed daily without worrying about weight gain.
How many calories are in papaya?
2 Nutritional content of papaya
Whether green or ripe, papaya is a favorite ingredient for many dishes due to its high nutritional value.
A ripe papaya weighing approximately 152g contains the following nutritional components:
-
15g of carbohydrates
-
1g of protein
-
90% water
-
13% fiber
-
3g of sugar
-
Vitamins: A, C, E, K, and B-complex (including folate)
-
Minerals: Potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus
-
Other beneficial compounds: Carotenoids and papain
Additionally, papaya contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including iron, riboflavin, niacin, and folate, as well as trace amounts of zinc, copper, and manganese.
Papaya is packed with nutrients
Note: Green papaya also contains 4% latex, which includes a significant amount of papain, a substance that may be harmful to pregnant women. Therefore, pregnant women should exercise caution when consuming papaya during pregnancy!
3 What are the benefits of eating papaya?
Effective weight loss aid
One of the most notable benefits of papaya is its ability to support weight loss. A 152g serving of papaya provides only about 42 calories, and its low glycemic index, high fiber content, and water content contribute to a feeling of fullness and reduced appetite.
Cancer prevention
Scientific studies have indicated that papaya contains compounds called lycopene, which have been shown to be effective in preventing cancer. Additionally, papaya can support the treatment of cancer patients.
Eating papaya helps prevent cancer
Promotes heart health
The fiber, vitamins, and minerals in papaya contribute to maintaining and improving heart health. Notably, papaya is rich in potassium, an essential electrolyte that helps reduce pressure and enhance cardiovascular health while preventing heart-related diseases.
Papaya promotes heart health
Boosts digestive health
Ripe papaya is composed of 90% water and a significant amount of fiber, which improves digestion. Furthermore, papaya contains the digestive enzyme papain, which enhances the digestive process and helps prevent colon cancer.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Papaya’s papain content also includes another enzyme called chymopapain, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, promoting wound healing and preventing infections. Additionally, it can help manage inflammatory conditions such as gout and arthritis.
Skin benefits
Papaya is rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help prevent skin aging and promote a radiant, smooth complexion.
Papaya benefits for skin
4 Can papaya make you gain weight?
With its nutritional content and calorie count, can papaya cause weight gain? The answer is a definite no.
Papaya helps with weight loss
Nutritionists have confirmed that consuming papaya in moderation does not lead to weight gain; instead, it effectively aids in weight loss without compromising health. With only 32-42 calories per 100g, papaya is an ideal fruit to include in your daily diet.
Moreover, papaya is low in fat and sodium, rich in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a safe and effective weight-loss aid.
For optimal weight loss results, opt for ripe papaya, as it contains minimal amounts of starch and is abundant in fiber, water, and vitamins, making it a superior choice for shedding those extra pounds.
5 Is it healthy to eat a lot of papaya?
While papaya is packed with vitamins and fiber beneficial to the body, overconsuming papaya daily is not recommended and may have negative health consequences.
Individuals who should avoid eating papaya include:
-
Pregnant women should refrain from consuming papaya, especially the unripe variety. If consumed, only a small amount of ripe papaya is advised.
-
Individuals with liver disease should avoid papaya as it may cause bleeding, particularly the leaves.
-
People with irregular heartbeats may experience increased heart pressure if they regularly consume large amounts of papaya.
-
Those with hypothyroidism may find that eating papaya worsens their condition.
-
People with kidney stones or digestive issues may experience bloating, gas, and indigestion after eating papaya.
-
Individuals with low blood sugar should also steer clear of papaya as it may cause an increase in heart rate.
Excessive papaya consumption may be harmful
6 How to eat papaya for effective weight loss
To harness the weight-loss benefits of papaya, consume it before your main meals to curb your appetite and reduce overall food intake. For enhanced results, opt for chilled ripe papaya, which helps cool down the body while aiding in weight loss.
You can prepare papaya in various ways, such as blending it into sugar-free smoothies, cooking it into soups, or incorporating it into other dishes.
Effective ways to eat papaya for weight loss
7 When is the best time to eat papaya during the day?
Due to its high acid content, avoid consuming papaya on an empty stomach as it may cause stomach upset and indigestion. If you’re aiming for weight loss, eat papaya before your lunch, as it is the most effective time to curb your appetite.
Best time to eat papaya
8 Suggested recipes for effective weight loss with papaya
Papaya is a versatile fruit often used in weight-loss recipes.
Papaya Smoothie
A papaya smoothie is a nutritious and delicious drink that provides essential vitamins and nutrients. It not only improves skin health, giving it a radiant and smooth appearance, but also aids in safe and effective weight loss.
Papaya smoothie for weight loss
Papaya Salad
Papaya salad is a popular appetizer, loved for its refreshing taste and non-greasy nature. A serving of papaya salad before the main course helps create a sense of fullness, reducing the consumption of oily and fatty foods.
Crispy papaya salad
Papaya Soup
Soup is an essential part of every meal, and papaya soup with pork ribs is a delicious and nutritious option. It provides a well-balanced meal without the worry of weight gain. It’s also an excellent choice for your daily weight-loss menu.
Sweet and savory papaya soup
9 Things to keep in mind when eating papaya
Green papaya is delicious when eaten raw or made into a salad, and it is particularly beneficial for individuals with Celiac disease, as it can help alleviate their condition.
While papaya is an excellent weight-loss aid, overconsumption may lead to jaundice, so it’s essential to eat it in moderation.
It is also important to avoid eating papaya on an empty stomach, as it may cause stomach pain and indigestion.
If you have a specific health condition or are undergoing treatment, consult your doctor before including papaya in your diet.
Precautions when eating papaya
10 Frequently Asked Questions about Papaya
How much papaya should I eat per day?
According to research conducted by scientists at Imperial College London, consuming up to 800g of papaya per day is considered safe and healthy.
Where can I buy naturally ripe and delicious papaya?
Papaya is a common fruit that can be easily found in local markets, supermarkets, and other retail stores. However, it is recommended to purchase papaya from reputable and familiar sources to ensure natural ripeness.
Frequently asked questions about papaya
This article has provided insights into using papaya for weight loss and suggested delicious papaya-based dishes. Stay tuned for more informative content!
Source: Elipsport
