What is papaya?
Papaya is a tropical fruit native to Central America and Mexico but is now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It belongs to the pear family and is known for its unique pear-shaped shape and vibrant orange flesh. Papaya is a nutrient-rich fruit, especially known for its high vitamin C content. They also contain high amounts of vitamin A, folate, potassium and dietary fiber. Additionally, papaya contains enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which are believed to aid digestion.
Disadvantages and side effects of papaya
While papaya has a variety of health benefits, it is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:
allergic reaction
Some people may be allergic to papaya, especially those allergic to latex. Papaya contains proteins similar in structure to those found in latex, which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms of papaya allergy may include itching, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.
It is probably safe to apply ripe papaya fruit to your skin or gums for up to 10 days. It may not be safe to apply unripe papaya fruit to your skin. Unripe papaya fruit contains papaya latex. This may cause severe irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
Unripe papaya
Ripe papaya is considered safe; unripe papaya contains papain, which can damage the esophagus. Papain breaks down proteins, carbohydrates and fats. But papain undergoes changes in the stomach, so it's unclear whether it's effective when taken orally. Papain appears to be able to kill certain parasites and may affect the central nervous system.
Unripe papaya contains high amounts of latex, which may stimulate uterine contractions and put pregnant women at risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to avoid eating unripe papayas and opt for fully ripe papayas instead. However, during pregnancy, ripe papaya can be safely consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
potential digestive problems
Papaya contains enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which aid digestion by breaking down proteins. While this is beneficial for some people, others may experience digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially if they consume large amounts of papaya or papaya supplements.
drug interactions
Papaya supplements or large amounts of papaya fruit may interact with certain medications. If you are taking medications, especially blood thinning or diabetes medications, consult a health care professional before adding papaya to your diet or taking papaya supplements.
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
Taking papaya extract and amiodarone by mouth may increase the amount of amiodarone in your body. This may increase the effects and side effects of amiodarone.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, others)
Eating large amounts of papaya may reduce the effects of levothyroxine.
diabetes medications
Papaya may lower blood sugar levels. Taking papaya with diabetes medications may cause your blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Warfarin is used to slow blood clotting. Papaya may increase the effects of warfarin and increase the chance of bruising and bleeding. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. Your warfarin dose may need to be changed.
Interacts with herbs and supplements
Papaya may lower blood sugar. Hyperglycemia may be reduced when taken with other supplements that have similar effects. Examples of supplements that have this effect include aloe vera, bitter melon, cinnamon, chromium, and prickly pear.
overeating
While papayas are nutritious, consuming too much of them may result in too much dietary fiber, causing digestive issues such as diarrhea or abdominal discomfort in some people. It is important to consume papaya in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
