We are all probably used to eating papaya flesh. When ripe, papaya flesh tastes sweet, refreshing and provides many health benefits. But have you ever thought about eating papaya seeds? This article will discuss how to eat these black and slimy little round seeds and how to get the benefits of this fruit seed.
Who doesn’t know papaya? The popularity of this tropical fruit is worldwide, and fans are everywhere. The flesh of this nutrient-rich fruit can be enjoyed raw, half-ripe, or ripe. To eat it, usually, the papaya skin will be peeled first, then the seeds are removed. Only the flesh of the fruit is eaten or made into vegetables.
But is it true that papaya seeds are completely useless, other than for planting? Let’s broaden our horizons. The small and black round seeds can be consumed, and can even be used as a sauce. Various studies show the benefits of papaya seeds for health, can even overcome various types of diseases, to support a healthy diet.
Also Read : Benefits of Papaya Seeds
Characteristics and Nutritional Value of Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds from ripe fruit are black and covered by a slimy and glossy covering. When the sheath is opened, you will find seeds that are black and have a rough texture. The taste of papaya seeds is slightly bitter and there is a slightly spicy taste. To consume it comfortably, there are various recommended processing methods.
Papaya seeds have nutritional value that is not inferior to the flesh of the fruit. Research shows, per 100 grams of dried papaya seeds contain 558 calories of energy, protein, fat, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals that are needed by the body. Papaya seeds are also high in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that acts as a high dose of antioxidants.
You can also take advantage of papaya seeds to support liver performance because it has detoxifying properties. Papaya seeds are also effective in increasing appetite, as well as promoting cell regeneration effectively. Even so, people with certain conditions, such as pregnant women, people with stomach and kidney disorders, and allergy sufferers, should consult a doctor first when they want to eat papaya seeds.
How to Prepare Papaya Seed to Eat?
Broadly speaking, there are two ways to consume papaya seeds, namely by eating them raw or processing them into powder first. The following is a guide on how to process papaya seeds for consumption:
Processing Raw Papaya Seeds
Papaya seeds can be eaten raw. But this method may not be liked by many people, because you have to chew it and get a bitter and sour taste which may not be pleasant for most people. To reduce the bitter taste, people will usually mix raw papaya seeds with certain spices. Raw papaya seeds can also be blended first, then mixed into juices or smoothies.
Unripe papaya seeds can be stored in the refrigerator with a shelf life of up to a week. You can wash it first, then store it in a food container before putting it in the refrigerator. Papaya seeds can be mixed into various types of food according to your taste.
Making Papaya Seed Powder
This is a way of preparing papaya seeds so that their use is more practical with a longer storage period. First, take raw papaya seeds according to taste. Wash the papaya seeds thoroughly, then dry them in the sun, or bake them in the oven at 66 degrees Celsius for about two hours. After the seeds have dried, you can mash them finely and you will soon get a papaya seed powder that can be consumed anytime. Papaya seed powder can also be mixed into various types of dishes according to taste.
How Much Papaya Seed to Eat?
Papaya seeds should be consumed in small doses. As a limitation, you should not consume more than one teaspoon of papaya seeds per day. Maybe you want to rely on papaya seeds to support your health and a healthy diet. But consuming papaya seeds in excessive doses will cause various side effects that harm the body.
How to Eat Papaya Seed for Weight Loss
If you have tried various ways to lose weight, but have not succeeded, maybe you can rely on papaya seeds to immediately get the ideal weight. Papaya seeds can be eaten raw or mixed with salad dressings and smoothies.
If you can’t stand the bitter and spicy taste, papaya seeds can be processed first by soaking them with lemon zest, lemon juice, cream, minced garlic, and coriander leaves. After soaking for about two hours, you can rinse immediately. Next, dry or roast the papaya seeds, then mash until smooth. Papaya seed powder can be mixed into various dishes to support a healthy diet.
Also read : Papaya Seeds Side Effects
How to Eat Papaya for Cancer
Papaya seeds can also prevent the growth of cancer cells effectively because of their strong antioxidant content, and they contain a compound called isothiocyanate. Research shows, that this compound can inhibit the growth and development of cancer cells effectively. Dosage consumption of papaya seeds for cancer should first be consulted with a doctor. For a more practical way of consumption, you can make it into a powder so that it can be consumed anytime with a longer shelf life.
Side Effects of Eating Papaya Seeds
Although papaya seeds are good for health, to support a healthy diet, you should not consume them too much. Limit consumption of papaya seeds per day should not be more than one teaspoon. Consuming papaya seeds in excessive doses will reduce fertility in men to reduce sperm quality. You may also develop diarrhea and other stomach disorders.
Pregnant women should also not eat papaya seeds because they can harm the baby in the womb. When breastfeeding, you should also not consume papaya seeds and various forms of processed products. Because this may interfere with the baby’s growth and development. For a safe way, it is better to consult with your doctor first so you can get the right prescription can get the benefits of papaya seeds.
