Papaya is a sweet, mild fruit cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical areas across the globe. Although papaya is typically eaten fresh with meals or for dessert, it can also be used as livestock feed or as a culinary vegetable when picked before maturity. Papain, an enzyme rich in unripe papaya, is sometimes used as a digestive supplement due to its protein-digesting properties.
Description
Papain is harvested by slicing the surface of fully grown, unripe papayas, which then secrete a latex-like substance rich in enzymes. The papaya latex is then dried and sold as a powder. Classified as a proteolytic enzyme, papain breaks down proteins into smaller amino acids, and is therefore useful for tenderizing meat, debriding wounds and helping to digest protein-rich foods like meat and dairy.
Effects on Digestion
Because of its ability to break down tough proteins in food, papain is often sold as a dietary supplement for improving digestion. If you experience gas, belching or other uncomfortable symptoms after consuming high-protein foods, papain may help to pre-digest the foods that your body can't handle. However, papain is unlikely to relieve indigestion from non-protein sources such as fiber.
Considerations
Although papain has theoretical benefits for digestion, its true effectiveness is uncertain. Proteolytic enzymes like papain don't appear to improve symptoms of indigestion when consumed orally. As Drugs.com explains, papain may be deactivated by digestive juices, rendering it ineffective once it reaches your stomach. To reap the benefits of papain for digesting protein, consider using it to tenderize meat during cooking rather than consuming it as an oral supplement.
Warning
In rare cases, papain may trigger allergic reactions or other adverse symptoms. As the University of Cincinnati Net Wellness explains, papain is chemically similar to latex, and may cause cross-reactions in people with pre-existing latex allergies. If you have an allergy to latex or papaya fruit, only take papain under the supervision of your doctor. In addition, proteolytic enzymes like papain may interfere with blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin and aspirin. If you currently take one of these medications, consult your physician before using papaya enzyme.
Member Comments