Papaya provides your body with vitamins A, C, and E, plus the protein-digesting enzyme papain. People use the fresh fruit, powders, and extracts to ease digestion and calm occasional bloating.
Eat fresh papaya alone or blend it into smoothies. Take powdered supplements or extracts with meals so the enzymes can go to work on your food.
Steer clear if you have a latex allergy, because papaya can trigger a cross-reaction. Anyone on blood thinners should check with a doctor first, since papain can influence how those medications work.