Papaya – Your Exotic Antioxidant Rich Breakfast Choice

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Have you tried papaya recently?  The red variety is sweeter than the yellow but either way, don’t be put off by its pungent smell.  Its smooth buttery texture will woo you once you’ve managed that first exotic and sweet mouthful. 

Papaya is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, B vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron and potassium.  So not only is it a wholesome and nutritious snack, its natural sweetness is guaranteed to satisfy any sugar craving.

If you are looking for more reasons to indulge, then you’ll be pleased to know that antioxidants such as lycopene found in papaya have been linked positively with risk of prostate cancer.  A Hungarian study published in 2005 also suggested that papaya intake may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.  Lycopene in tomatoes and papaya is considered to be one of the most powerful antioxidants for this reason.

It’s a delicious addition in fruit salads, or is fantastic on its own.  Simply cut it lengthways like you would a melon, and then enjoy it using a spoon.  Good bye sugar cravings!

Papaya is readily accessible all year through, peaking around early summer.

So what are you waiting for?  Grab some from your local supermarket or fruit and vegetable market.  Throw it in your fruit salads or in your breakfast smoothie for an exotic summer fix.

Here’s a recipe suggestion for that smoothie.

Ingredients

One half of a small ripe papaya, cubed

½ cup watermelon pieces

3 tablespoons reduced fat Greek yoghurt

½ teaspoon fresh mint, chopped

1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)

Ice

Blend all ingredients and enjoy this refreshing breakfast smoothie!  How do you have your papaya?