Garlic and papaya offer many nutrients to a well-balanced diet. Papaya is a tropical fruit that contains beneficial digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," Dr. Jonny Bowden claims garlic has antiviral, anticancer and antibacterial properties. Garlic is in the same family as onion and contains the active ingredient allicin. Speak with a physician before including garlic and papaya in your diet.
Function of Enzymes
Papaya is one of the best sources of digestive enzymes. The fruit contains papain, which helps to break down or digest protein. Papain is often extracted from papaya and used in many digestive enzyme supplements sold in health food stores. In "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth," Dr. Jonny Bowden says that papain may have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is often linked to obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Function of Potassium
Papaya provides a significant amount of the mineral potassium to your diet. According to the University of California at Berkeley, potassium plays an important role in the proper functioning of the heart and kidneys. The mineral works in conjunction with sodium to help to regulate blood pressure and water balance in your cells. Lowering your blood pressure may reduce the risk of hypertension and stroke.
Benefits of Carotenoids
Papaya contains carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene. Lutein and zeaxanthin promotes eye health. These caroteinoids are found in the retina of your eye. Lutein and zeaxanthin filter out harmful ultra-violet rays that are linked to cataracts and macular degeneration. According to Dr. Jonny Bowden, beta-carotene seems to reduce the risk of arthritis, lung and colon cancer. However, no evidence supports these claims.
Benefits of Garlic
Many of the health benefits of garlic are linked to a compound called allicin. When garlic is crushed, this chemical is formed through the reaction of enzymes. The Reader's Digest Association says that allicin lowers cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. It appears to prevent heart attacks and other cardiovascular disorders. The University of California says research indicates that garlic also has anticancer potential. Eating garlic seems to lower the risk of colon cancer. Garlic can also help shrink cancers of the breast, skin, lungs, colon and the esophagus.
Considerations for Garlic
According to the Reader's Digest Association, there is no guarantee that garlic will prevent heart disease or cancer. It is mainly just used to add flavor to your meals. Some drawbacks of consuming garlic include bad breath, indigestion and flatulence. Handling raw garlic can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Eating it raw is not recommended because it can be irritating to the stomach.
References
- "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth"; Jonny Bowden, Ph.D.,C.N.S.; 2007
- "Foods That Harm Foods That Heal";The Reader's Digest Association Inc.;1997
- "The Wellness Encyclopedia of Food and Nutrition"; The University of California at Berkeley; 1992
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