Papaya is rich in valuable nutrients.  Its powerful antioxidants like lycopene may reduce the risk of many diseases — especially ones that tend to come with age, such as heart disease and cancer.

Papain, an enzyme found in pineapple, has been shown to jumpstart protein hydrolysis and extract more nutrition from plant proteins reducing quality differences between plant and animal proteins.

It may also defend against the visible signs of aging, helping your dog’s skin remain youthful.

7 Science Informed Reasons to Include Papaya in Your Dog’s Diet:

1. Loaded with Nutrients – the papaya is a tropical fruit high in vitamins C and A, as well as fibre and healthy antioxidants known as carotenoids — particularly one type called lycopene. It also contains a potent enzyme called papain. Your dog’s body absorbs these beneficial antioxidants better from papayas than other fruits and vegetables. (3)
2. Has Powerful Antioxidant Effects – papaya has powerful antioxidant effects, including the removal of excess iron in your dog’s system by lycopene, which may reduce oxidative stress and lower your dog’s risk of several chronic diseases. (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
3. Has Anticancer Properties – early research suggests that the antioxidants in papaya may reduce cancer risk and perhaps even slow cancer progression. (12, 14, 15, 16)
4. May Improve Heart Health – papaya’s high vitamin C and lycopene content can improve heart health and may reduce the risk of heart disease. (17, 18, 19, 20, 21)
5. May Fight Inflammation – chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases. Papayas are very high in carotenoids that can reduce inflammation. (22, 23, 24, 25, 26)
6. May Improve Digestion – papain enzyme in papaya can make protein easier to digest potentially reducing bloating and constipation. (27)
7. May Protect Against Skin Damage – the vitamin C and lycopene in papaya protect your dog’s skin and may help reduce ageing. (30, 31)