Calories in Papaya: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Papaya is a tropical fruit prized for its vibrant orange flesh, sweet flavor, and impressive vitamin C content. It is one of the richest fruit sources of vitamin C, providing more than a full day's requirement per cup. Papaya also contains papain, a unique digestive enzyme that helps break down proteins.

Calories by serving size:

Papaya is about 88% water and has a low calorie density, making it a hydrating and filling fruit. Its deep orange color indicates high levels of beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, both of which are powerful antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a cup of papaya?

One cup of cubed papaya (about 145 grams) contains approximately 62 calories. This serving provides 16 grams of carbohydrates, 11 grams of natural sugar, 2.5 grams of fiber, and a remarkable 144% of your daily vitamin C. Papaya is also a good source of folate and vitamin A.

What is papain and what does it do?

Papain is a proteolytic enzyme found in papaya, especially in unripe fruit. It breaks down proteins and is used as a natural meat tenderizer. When eaten, papain aids digestion by helping your body break down protein more efficiently. Some people take papain supplements for digestive issues, though eating fresh papaya is the natural way to get this benefit.

Is papaya good for skin health?

Papaya is excellent for skin health due to its high vitamin C and vitamin A content. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which maintains skin elasticity. Vitamin A promotes cell turnover and repair. The antioxidants in papaya — including lycopene and beta-carotene — also protect skin cells from UV damage and oxidative stress.

Can you eat papaya seeds?

Yes, papaya seeds are edible and have a peppery, slightly bitter flavor. They contain small amounts of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Some traditional medicine practices use papaya seeds for their potential anti-parasitic properties, though scientific evidence is limited. They can be dried and ground as a pepper substitute.

Is papaya safe during pregnancy?

Ripe papaya is generally considered safe during pregnancy and is a good source of folate and vitamin C. However, unripe or semi-ripe papaya contains high concentrations of latex and papain, which may stimulate uterine contractions. Pregnant women should eat only fully ripe papaya and consult their healthcare provider with any concerns.