Papaya is a tropical fruit that is native to Central America, but it is now grown in many countries around the world. It has a distinctive orange or yellow skin, and the flesh inside is a bright orange or pink color. Papaya is known for its sweet, juicy flavor and is often eaten fresh or used in salads, smoothies, and other dishes.
But beyond its delicious taste, papaya is also known for its impressive nutritional value. In this article, we will take a closer look at the nutritional value of papaya per 100g and discuss whether it is a healthy choice for you.
Nutritional Value of Papaya per 100g
One serving of papaya (about 100g) contains the following nutrients:
Calories: 43
Protein: 0.5g
Fat: 0.1g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Vitamin C: 60.9mg (101% of the daily value)
Vitamin A: 961 IU (19% of the daily value)
Folate: 37.5mcg (9% of the daily value)
Potassium: 181mg (5% of the daily value)
As you can see, papaya is a low-calorie food that is relatively low in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. However, it is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and potassium.
Vitamin C is an important nutrient that helps to support the immune system and protect the body against oxidative stress. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is a protein that helps to keep skin, bones, and connective tissues healthy.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. It is also necessary for the proper functioning of the organs and tissues in the body.
Folate is a B-vitamin that is important for the production of red blood cells and the metabolism of proteins and DNA. It is especially important for women of childbearing age, as it can help to prevent birth defects.
Potassium is an electrolyte that is important for maintaining the balance of fluids in the body and regulating the heart’s electrical activity. It is also necessary for proper muscle function and the metabolism of carbohydrates.
Is Papaya per 100g Healthy for You?
Overall, papaya is a healthy choice for most people. Its high vitamin C and vitamin A content make it a great food for supporting the immune system and maintaining healthy skin and vision. Its high fiber content can also help to support digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Papaya is also a good source of antioxidants, which are compounds that can help to protect the body against oxidative stress and prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
However, it is worth noting that papaya is relatively high in sugar, with about 11g of carbohydrates per 100g serving. While this is not a particularly high amount, it is still worth considering if you are trying to watch your sugar intake.
In addition, some people may be allergic to papaya. If you are allergic to papaya, you should avoid it and speak with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, papaya is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and it is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and potassium. While it is relatively high in sugar, it is still a healthy choice for most people.