The papaya, once called the “fruit of the angels,” is now gaining notoriety for its anticancer powers in addition to its positive effects on the immune system.

University of Florida researchers used papaya leaf extract on 10 different lab-grown tumors, including cancers of the cervix, breast, liver, lung, and pancreas. Papaya slowed the growth of tumors in all of the cultures. The papaya anticancer effects are due to a boost in the production of key signaling molecules called Th1-type cytokines in the immune system, one of the T-helper cells.

Another anti-cancer benefit of the papaya is that it is a rich source of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and flavonoids. Lycopene, for example, has been linked with the reduced risk of a man developing prostate cancer. The papaya’s fiber content may be protective against colon cancer by binding to toxins in the intestine and keeping them away from healthy cells.

Because of its role in reducing inflammation and promoting the beneficial functions of the immune system, the papaya may also help people with inflammatory or autoimmune diseases such as asthma or rheumatoid arthritis.

Papaya may also provide protection against heart disease because it is an excellent source of vitamins C, E, and A. These nutrients help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, discouraging the accumulation of plaques inside the blood vessel walls which could cause heart attack and stroke. Papayas are also high in fiber, which can prevent cholesterol from being absorbed and may lower high cholesterol levels from even occurring.

Papayas contain an enzyme called papain that helps digest protein. It is especially concentrated when the fruit is unripe. Because it can help break down other foods, it is sometimes used as a digestive enzyme supplement or meat tenderizer. Papain is also used to lower inflammation and to improve healing from burns.

Papayas are especially rich in carotenes (yellow, orange, and red pigments synthesized by plants) which may help protect the eyes from macular degeneration. Data reported in the journal Archives of Opthalmology found that eating 3 or more servings of fruit per day can lower the risk of age-related MD, the primary cause of vision loss in older adults. Certain carotenoids are found in the macula which protect the eye from light-induced oxidative damage.

One caution about the papaya: if you have a latex allergy you may also be allergic to this fruit. Like avocados and bananas, papayas contain substances called chitinases that are associated with the latex-fruit allergy syndrome. Cooking may deactivate the enzymes, however it is still wise to check with your doctor before eating.

Hesitant to try papaya? Whole Foods has these tips:

• Choose papayas that have reddish-orange skin and are slightly soft to the touch. Those that are completely green or hard should not be purchased unless you plan to cook them.
   
• To eat whole, wash the fruit, cut it lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and eat like a melon.
   
• Start your breakfast with a glass of papaya or add slices of fresh papaya to your morning cereal.
   
• Add papaya to any smoothie or fruit salad.
   
• For a delicious summer lunch, cut a papaya in half, scoop out the seeds, sprinkle with lime juice and top with cottage cheese or tuna salad, a fresh mint leaf, and roasted almonds.
   
• Make a cold fruit soup by blending papaya, strawberries and yogurt.
   
• Mixed diced papaya, cilantro, jalapeno peppers and ginger for a salsa over fish, shrimp, or scallops.
   
• The seeds of the papaya are edible and have a peppery flavor. Try blending into a creamy salad dressing.