Friday, January 19, 2007

Papaya and Watermelon

Papaya, deliciously sweet when perfectly ripe. It was called the "fruit of the angels" by Christopher Columbus. Once considered quite exotic, they can now be found in markets throughout the year. Papaya's seeds are edible, although their peppery flavor is somewhat bitter. The fruit, as well as the other parts of the papaya tree, contain papain, an enzyme that helps digest proteins. This enzyme is especially concentrated in the fruit when it is unripe. Papain is extracted to make digestive enzyme dietary supplements.




A one-cup serving of watermelon will provide around 48 calories. Watermelon is an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A, with one serving containing 14.59 mg of vitamin C and 556.32 IU of vitamin A. Watermelon also provides significant amounts of vitamin B6 and vitamin B1, as well as the minerals potassium and magnesium. Watermelon rinds are also edible. Sometimes when juicing I include the rind. The seeds are rich in fat and protein. Watermelon is 92 percent water by weight, the highest percentage of any fruit. I love blending the pulp with the seeds, it gives it a nutty flavor.

Both these fruits are part of my daily diet. They are very available in Bahia.

4 comments:

Harmonia said...

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Naturegirl said...

I love watermelon although a high glycemic food.Who cares I see why I crave it with all those B vitamins!
I invite you to my ~friendship tea~ how about ~white tea~rose~ :)NG

CeLee said...

wow ... you make everything look so tasty... and I, unfortunately, do not have any limitations to what I eat. I try for organic at all times but it's not a deal breaker :(.

very interesting site. thanks for stopping by!

Anonymous said...

hey jess cool stuff i love you...Franny