​Eating THIS one fruit everyday could help fight almost any ailment...

The immune system is a complex system of nerves, tissues and organs that work together to protect the body from infection and various diseases. Like a game of football defense, the immune system is continuously working to maintain health and longevity. While most common foods such as broccoli and oranges have established immune-strengthening properties based on their high levels of vitamin C, other fruits provide important benefits as well. One of those is papaya (Carica papaya), a soft, creamy fruit that is very nutrient-dense

Papaya contains a lot of vitamin C, a nutrient needed and has to be derived from food or supplements. A medium papaya provides more than 100% of the Daily Value of vitamin C, which is an essential vitamin for our immune strength since it increases T and B lymphocyte function, both of which are types of white blood cells that are in charge of immune response. T cells infect and destroy infected cells, while B cells produce antibodies to fight germs like viruses and bacteria.

Papaya adds roughly 2.5 grams of fiber per cup. Dietary fibers in papaya promotes digestive health and stimulate the growth of an evenly balanced, healthy gut microbiome, because virtually 70% of immune cells reside in the gut. Papain, a naturally occurring enzyme in papaya, aids protein breakdown and even boosts the uptake of nutrients. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects.

Papaya also contains antioxidants such as vitamin A, beta carotene, and lycopene. These neutralize oxidative stress, a condition in which the free radicals exceed the antioxidant defense of the body. As anti-inflammatories, these substances contribute to improved immune function. One slice of papaya supplies 3 milligrams of lycopene, an antioxidant whose alleged protective effect against heart disease and certain cancers, including prostate cancer, is being researched.

One can incorporate papaya into virtually any other food or simply munch on it. Mixing pieces of papaya with salads, incorporating it into fruit smoothies, or even just squeezing lime juice over it and eating as it is provides a refreshing taste.