Papaya is rich and very good source of Vitamin A. One serving of papaya can provide about 100% daily requirement for 30% of vitamin A. Vitamin A in papaya fruit (Carica papaya L.) is about 23 – 55 (μg/100g).
Papaya also contains many bioactive phytochemicals with diverse structure and functional properties. It contains substantial amounts of carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols. It contains relatively high levels of β-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Papaya contains about 6% of the level of beta carotene found in carrots.
Human bodies need vitamin A which is required for healthy skin, mucous membranes, for normal functioning of retina, as well as for growth, development and reproduction. Vitamin A also effective against macular degeneration.
Vitamin A, which is made in the body from the β-carotene in papaya, needed for the proper function of a healthy immune system.
The role of vitamin A is not restricted to their antioxidant properties. It is fundamental in signaling with retinol-binding protein to regulate insulin sensitivity and fat homeostasis. In addition, vitamin A and related retinoids have therapeutic potential as immune modulators and the retinol is an important electron carrier in redox signaling.
Papaya fruit with vitamin A
