 |
Papaya and the Cretan Bowl Diet…Papaya, also known as the Paw Paw are deliciously sweet and very exotic. Christopher Columbus called this delicious fruit the "fruit of the angels" Papaya are an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin K. Vitamin A assists with cell reproduction. It also stimulates immunity and is needed for formation of some hormones. Vitamin A helps vision and supports bone growth, tooth development, and helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and mucous membranes. Deficiency of Vitamin A can cause night blindness, dry skin, poor bone growth, and weak tooth enamel. Vitamin C is an important vitamin in that it plays a significant role as an antioxidant, thereby protecting body tissue from the damage of oxidation. Antioxidants act to protect your cells against the effects of free radicals, which are potentially damaging by-products of the body’s metabolism. Free radicals can cause cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. 
Vitamin E is important as an antioxidant, thereby protecting body tissue from the damage of oxidation. It is important in the formation of red blood cells and the use of Vitamin K.
Vitamin K is fat-soluble and plays a major role in blood clotting. It regulates blood calcium levels and activates proteins involved in bone health. Papaya also contains Potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral for the growth and maintenance of the body. It is needed to maintain a normal water balance between the cells and body fluids. Potassium also plays an essential role in proper heart function. Deficiency may cause muscular cramps, twitching and weakness, irregular heartbeat, insomnia, kidney and lung failure.
|