Carb Counts for Papaya

Papaya Nutritional Information

When Christopher Columbus encountered papayas, he called them "The Fruit of the Angels," perhaps because they are so sweet. Small amounts can usually be eaten as part of a low-carb diet. The fruit contains an enzyme called papain, which is used as a meat tenderizer because it breaks down proteins.

Carbohydrate and Fiber Counts for Papaya

• ½ cup papaya cubes: 6 grams effective (net) carbohydrate plus 1 gram fiber and 27 calories.

• 1 medium papaya (5" long and 3" in diameter): 25 grams effective (net) carbohydrate plus 5 grams fiber and 119 calories.

Glycemic Index for Papaya

The averages in studies of papaya ranged between 56 to 60, with an average of 59.

More Information about the Glycemic Index

Glycemic Load of Papaya

• ½ cup of papaya cubes: 1.5

• 1 medium papaya (5" long and 3" in diameter): 7

More Information about the Glycemic Load

Health Benefits of Papaya

Papaya is an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A and a very good source of folate and potassium. It is also rich in phytonutrients including carotenes and flavonoids, which can protect cells from damage, lower risk of cardiovasular disease, and provide other health benefits.

More Information About Papaya at Calorie Count Plus.

_Sources:

Leroux, MarcusFoster-Powell, Kaye, Holt, Susanna and Brand-Miller, Janette. "International table of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2002." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Vol. 76, No. 1, 5-56, (2002).

USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 20.