Christopher Columbus actually called the papaya as the Fruit of the Angels when he noticed how strong the Caribbean natives were when they eat the fruit. Papayas are consumed either ripe or green. You may be wondering which of these two is better in terms of improving your health.

The truth is both have almost similar nutritional benefits. There are only few notable distinctions between the two, including:

• Green papayas have higher amounts of potassium. Compared to ripe papayas, green ones are richer in potassium mainly because this mineral is required for the development of the plant’s roots, as well as in regulating water and nutrient intake. Potassium is therefore not necessary when the fruit is ripe.

• Green papayas release latex fluid. In some individuals, this fluid causes allergic reaction and skin irritation. Additionally, it is this fluid that makes papayas one of the foods to avoid when pregnant as it causes uterine contractions. If you are expecting, avoid green papayas for now because consumption may lead to miscarriage.

• Green papayas have higher papain concentration than ripe ones. Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme that can be used to tenderize meat. As for your health, it can be a food supplement to help your digestive system function better.

Aside from being a great help for digestion, both green and ripe papayas offer the following health benefits:

• Anti-Inflammatory: This is also due to the proteolytic enzyme known as papain that helps in reducing inflammation, including osteoarthritis, asthma, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Rich in Antioxidants: The antioxidants in the papayas help prevent cholesterol oxidation, so that it does not clog the arteries. Additionally, this reduces the risk that you could get heart attacks or stroke.

• Rich in Fiber: Papayas are rich in fiber, which will bind to toxins that cause cancer in your colon. These toxins will be eliminated from the body when you move your bowels.

• Anti-Digestive Problems: When eaten regularly, you will be free from digestive problems, such as bleeding piles, chronic diarrhea, and habitual constipation.

• Rich in Vitamin A: The papaya juice is rich in Vitamin A, which helps those who smoke or those who are usually exposed to secondhand smoke. Vitamin A in the fruit can reduce the inflammation in your lungs and can therefore help save your life.

• Irregular Menstrual Remedy: If your menstrual cycle is irregular, you can consume papaya juice, especially the one from unripe papaya because it helps contract the muscles in your womb. As mentioned though, you should avoid unripe papayas when you are pregnant for this same reason.

Papayas, whether ripe or unripe, are indeed wonders in the world of medicine. The fruit boasts a ton of benefits, aside from the sweetness of the ripe papaya and the versatility of the green papaya.