Papaya

A ripe papaya will be sweet and has a taste a little similar to a mango. The flesh will melt in your mouth and has a buttery feel. An unripe papaya is a different story.  They are at their very best when the skin looks overripe and ready to throw away.

To serve just slice and remove the seeds, a squeeze of lemon is also nice. Can also be added to salads.

Papayas contain high levels of antioxidants, vitamins A, C and E.  Diets high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease. The antioxidants prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. When cholesterol oxidizes, it’s more likely to create blockages that lead to heart disease.  The papain enzyme in papaya can make protein easier to digest.  People in the tropics consider papaya to be a remedy for constipation and other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).