The many health benefits of papaya fruit are unequivocally known to all. This nutritious fruit, which is available throughout the year, is a source of tremendous nourishment for our overall health and wellness. Like many other fruits, papaya's skin-covered flesh encloses a number of seeds. Again, like many other fruits, the kernels are discarded to eat the juicy flesh. Have you ever wondered why do we assume that these seeds are inedible and just toss them out? Of course, they taste bitter if we accidentally bite into them, but does that mean they are not supposed to be eaten? Maybe, they are. Some experts suggest that papaya seeds can be ingested, only if taken in limits.
Dr. Anju Sood, a Bengaluru-based nutritionist points out, "Not all seeds are poisonous but some seeds are very bitter due to which, they create some kind of gastro-intestinal disturbance." According to many other nutritionists, papaya seeds are actually edible and can be eaten to avail their various health-benefiting properties.
(Also Read: 5 Untold Benefits Of Orange Seeds)
Papaya seeds are actually edible and can be eaten to avail their various health-benefiting properties.
What Are The Benefits Of Eating Papaya Seeds?
1. Fights Free Radicals
Papaya seeds are abound with antioxidants - polyphenols and flavonoids - which shield us from common infections like cold and cough, and also from many chronic diseases.
2. Helps In Weight Management
The seeds of the fruit are fibrous in nature that aid digestion and further help in preventing obesity. The fibre also keeps a check on blood pressure that aids in keeping heart healthy.
3. Keeps Gut Healthy
Certain studies claim that papaya seeds contain proteolytic enzymes that kill bacteria and parasites residing in the intestines, thereby, keeping the stomach and the gut healthy.
4. Relieves Menstrual Pain
It is also said that consuming papaya seeds during periods is helpful to ease muscle cramps and pain.
5. Regulates Cholesterol Level
The seeds of papaya are also rich in healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, especially, oleic acid (3), which is known to pull down high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).
(Also Read: Are Fruit Seeds Safe To Eat?)
How To Consume Papaya Seeds?
Given its bitter taste, how do we bring ourselves to eat it? Well, you don't really have to stress out your taste buds. Grind the papaya seeds, and mix their powder form in sweet smoothies, juices, desserts or even teas. The sweetness of sugar, honey or jaggery will overpower the bitterness of the seeds.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.