Should you eat papaya with seeds for 'the most powerful' detox? Here's everything you need to know

The thought of ridding our bodies of the bad stuff and getting healthier sounds amazing. But should we eat 'papaya seeds for 7 days to detox 7 times faster'?

If you went a little overboard and are now feeling the urge to eat clean, then you have come to the right place. In a recent video, social media personality Shineel, who shares health and wellness tips on Instagram, discussed how you can 'convert your regular foods into superfoods'.

Eating papaya with seeds can detox your body. (Representative picture: Pexels)

She said, “Having papaya with its seeds is the simplest and the most powerful way of detoxing your body.” So, we asked Dr Sudeep Khanna, senior consultant, gastroenterology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, if such a detox would do us any good. But first, let's find out what Shineel said in her video.

'Papaya seeds are magnets to toxins and parasites'

Shineel said, “What if I told you that just by changing the way you eat your papaya for seven days, you could detox your body seven times faster? Now, we all know that papaya is the king of all fruits but did you know that the papaya seeds are magnets to toxins and parasites in our body?”

She added, “Having papaya with its seeds is the simplest and the most powerful way of detoxing your body. You doing this for seven days is equivalent to somebody doing a full detox for a week. The only two things you need to remember: one, swallow the seeds, don't chew them; and second, please do not have this if you are pregnant.”

Papaya: Papaya acts as a natural laxative if you have it empty stomach in the morning.(Pixabay)

Nutritional composition of papaya seeds

Dr Sudeep Khanna says papaya seeds have gained popularity in recent years for their potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and support for digestive health. Rich in nutrients such as fibre, vitamins, and various bioactive compounds, these seeds are often touted for their ability to combat intestinal parasites and promote overall gut health.

He adds some proponents suggest that papaya seeds may even have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. They are also believed to aid in detoxification, making them an appealing addition to some health-conscious diets.

Should you consume papaya seeds?

However, the safety of consuming papaya seeds is a significant concern that cannot be overlooked as Dr Sudeep Khanna says there's no good scientific evidence to support health benefits of papaya.

“Several studies, particularly those conducted on animals, have indicated that these seeds can cause considerable harm. Research has shown that papaya seeds may lead to significant liver damage, raising alarms about their long-term consumption. Additionally, the seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which can pose serious health risks if consumed in large quantities. This potential toxicity has led many experts to recommend caution when considering the inclusion of papaya seeds in one’s diet,” Dr Sudeep Khanna says.

He adds, “If you are contemplating adding papaya seeds to your meals, moderation is essential. While some individuals may consume them occasionally without experiencing adverse effects, regular or excessive consumption is generally discouraged due to the documented risks associated with their intake. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating papaya seeds into your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or specific dietary concerns.”

Final thoughts

Dr Sudeep Khanna says, “In summary, while papaya seeds have potential benefits, such as improved digestion and antioxidant effects, the risks involved — particularly regarding liver health and toxicity — warrant careful consideration. Making informed decisions about dietary choices is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Therefore, if you choose to enjoy papaya seeds, do so sparingly and ensure that you are aware of the possible implications for your health.”

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.