What are the health benefits of papaya?

Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.D., L.D. — Written by Megan Ware, RDN, L.D. on December 21, 2017
Benefits
Nutrition
Recipes
Risks
Papayas grow in tropical climates and are also known as papaws or pawpaws. Their sweet taste, vibrant color, and the wide variety of health benefits they provide make them a popular fruit.
The papaya, a previously exotic and rare fruit, is now available at most times of the year.
The possible health benefits of consuming papaya include a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, aiding in digestion, improving blood glucose control in people with diabetes, lowering blood pressure, and improving wound healing.
Papayas are a soft, fleshy fruit that can be used in a wide variety of culinary ways. Here we will explore more on the health benefits, uses, how to incorporate more of them into your diet, and what nutritional value papayas have.
Fast facts on papaya:
Papaya is native to Mexico. However, it grows naturally in the Caribbean and Florida too.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), India produces the most papayas – over 5 million tons in 2013.
It can be added to salads, smoothies, and other dishes.
