5 Reasons Why You Should Eat Papaya If You Are Diabetic

Health and Nutrition experts recommend (in general, not only for patients with diabetes) the consumption of fruit within a balanced diet.

Although for a long time it was believed that eating certain sweet-tasting fruits (such as banana, mango, papaya and others) was not recommended in case of diabetes, the truth is that eating papaya and other fruits is it can be beneficial to your health, with or without diabetes.

It is proven that consuming the fruit raw is very beneficial for health. These foods not only provide fiber but also multiple nutrients.

Now what is certain is that when you have diabetes, it is not advisable to consume fruit in the form of juice, for example, since its contribution changes.

Next, we will help you knock down the myths around the fruit and we will tell you why you should eat papaya, within a balanced diet.

Better understanding diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin completely or in the proportions necessary to metabolize the sugars consumed.

Insulin allows the conversion of glucose from food eaten into energy to carry out daily activities.

If glucose is not absorbed by cells to be used for energy, it accumulates in the blood and causes hyperglycemia, that is, high levels of glucose in the blood. And yes If this situation is prolonged over time, it can cause damage to various organs and tissues.

Benefits of eating papaya

It is common to hear that all types of fruits should be avoided, because they contain sugar and can be counterproductive for those who suffer from this disease. However, fruits can be eaten naturally and will even help counteract the effects of diabetes. One of these is precisely papaya because:

• It is rich in vitamins A, C, E and some of the B complex.
• It contains papain, an enzyme that supports the entire digestive process.
• It is rich in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.
• Contains soluble fiber and antioxidants.

Studies indicate that papaya is a fruit that can contribute to the well-being of some types of di abetes, as its fiber content helps regulate glucose, insulin and lipids.

In a study carried out in mice, it was concluded that papaya pulp has a certain beneficial effect on the control of glycemia in hyperglycemic animals, due to the significant reduction in the level of glucose in the blood in these animals.

Additionally, a significant reduction in body weight was observed in normoglycemic animals that received papaya pulp.

1. Eating papaya helps you get antioxidants

Papaya is a fruit that contains vitamin C, which is involved in several important processes, such as the formation of collagen and the absorption of iron. In addition, it promotes resistance to infections. 

2. Does not alter blood glucose levels

Although it is a fruit with a sweet taste and its sugar level is not as low as the Apple , Eating papaya is a good idea whenever you care the size of the portions. The most recommended is that these are:

• Small servings (not to exceed one cup).
• Consumed in the morning to have enough time to burn off the energy.
• Accompanied by some protein such as yogurt or cheese to reduce the chances of hypoglycemia.

3. Helps you satisfy your appetite

Being a fruit rich in soluble fiber, it helps us fill ourselves with a reasonable portion. This is perfect for diabetics who suffer from constant cravings.

By including papaya after lunch or as breakfast you get the feeling of fullness for longer. This will help you avoid the temptation to look for foods that lack nutrients or raise your glucose level quickly.

4. Promotes cardiovascular health

Eating papaya and other fruits helps to obtain various nutrients for health and this, in turn, favors the health of various systems of the body, such as the cardiovascular, for example.

It is considered that, by helping to satisfy the appetite, among other issues, papaya would help reduce the bite of unhealthy foods (such as snacks and sweets, for example) and this, in some way, would help maintain cholesterol levels within normal.

On the other hand, there is the hypothesis that papaya could help regulate blood cholesterol, in a similar way to oats.

5. Helps to lose weight

Another reason to eat papaya is that this fruit can help regulate intestinal transit, reduce inflammation of the abdomen and stimulate weight loss. This comes to be a help for many patients with diabetes.

Will you dare to eat papaya from now on?

Definitely, you do not need to stop consuming any fruit if you have diabetes, for fear of altering blood glucose levels. The key as a diabetic is to consume the correct portions to reap the benefits without any risk. .

What you do have to keep in mind is that the best way to consume the fruit is natural. However, if you have doubts, it is best to consult your treating doctor.