According to the National Kidney Foundation (USA), a diet rich in antioxidants, low in sodium and rich in fiber is an important factor in helping to protect and support liver and kidney function. In which, papaya is a fruit that fully meets this criterion.
Dr. Amy Burkhart, a nutritionist and internist in California (USA), said that papaya contains the enzyme papain, which aids in protein digestion and reduces metabolic burden on the liver.
The liver is the main organ that performs metabolic and detoxification functions. When the liver is not functional, the body can easily accumulate toxins, leading to fatigue, digestive disorders and the risk of fatty liver disease.
Ripe papaya is high in vitamins A, C and E, which are micronutrients that can neutralize free radicals, supporting the liver in the detoxification process.
In particular, papaya also contains flavonoids and natural alkaloids that have anti-inflammatory effects and prevent liver cell damage caused by oxidative stress.
Papaya extract can help improve liver function in rates with liver damage caused by paracetamol, a scientific evidence that supports the liver-protective effect of this fruit.
The kidneys play a role in filtering blood, regulating water, electrolytes and excreting metabolic products from the body. When the kidneys are weakened, these functions are affected, causing edema, high blood pressure, and urine disorders.
With a moderate potassium content, papaya is a fruit that is friendly to people at risk of kidney failure or who are controlling potassium in their diet.
In addition, the enzyme papain also helps reduce kidney inflammation, aid digestion and prevent constipation - a common problem in patients with chronic kidney failure.
You should add foods rich in antioxidants such as papaya to your diet to limit kidney cell damage and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Choose naturally ripe papaya, avoid those that are smelly and cooked under pressure because they may contain chemical residues.
Eating 100-150g of papaya/day is enough. Do not eat too much at the same time to avoid digestive disorders or increase blood sugar in people with diabetes.
Papaya can be used as a dessert, sugar-free smoothie or salad mixed with lemon and some chia seeds to increase health benefits.
For people with severe chronic kidney disease (stage 4-5), it is necessary to consult a nutritionist to consider the appropriate potassium intake.
