The Papaya Cancer Cure; Possible Health Benefits of Papaya

One of the latest foods to be associated with cancer is papaya. This versatile fruit is believed to have originated in South America but is very popular in Asian countries like Thailand where it is used in many creative ways. My wife converted me to the wonders of Papaya Salad and this has to be my favorite Thai dish; it is very hot and it is not something you want to eat if you are going to be far from a toilet. I also enjoy just eating raw papaya; especially when it's sweet.

The Papaya Cancer Cure and Other Health Claims

The papaya cancer cure is only one of many health claims for the fruit. It contains the enzyme papain that is beneficial for the digestive system. It is also promoted as a cure for constipation and have a boosting affect on the colon and help remove infections from the intestines. Another health claim for papaya is that it prevents nausea and vomiting including car sickness.

The claim of a papaya cancer cure is being boosted by recent research by the University of Florida. This research involved testing extracts from papaya. When the extract was applied to cancer cells it was observed to slow their growth down. The news of this research is being warmly welcomed by those around the world who are already convinced of the papaya cancer cure. Researchers at the University of Florida though were quick to point out that their research should not be viewed as proof that papaya can prevent or treat cancer in humans - more studies will be needed before any conclusions can be reached.

Warnings about Papaya

Like all things in nature, it seems that moderation is the key. There have been some claims that too much papaya may lead to prostate cancer. There is also the warning that those with a latex allergy should completely avoid contact with the fruit because it releases a latex fluid.

Enjoy Papaya

It may take some time before a conclusion can be reached about the beneficial effects of papaya as a way to deal with cancer. This does not mean that we need to wait before enjoying the benefits of this tasty fruit. You no longer need to live in a certain part of the world to find papaya; the wonder of our modern world mean that it available practically everywhere. Just make sure that you are not allergic to latex and you don't go too overboard in your consumption.

Sources

Medicine Net article - Papaya Could be a Cancer Fighter

BBC H2G2 article - Papaya