Papayas!

Papaya's main claim to fame is that it is the only source of papain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins and improves digestion. The enzyme is also and effective anti-inflammatory, proven to ease stings, burns, wounds, and postoperative pain. "Papain increases the production of immune cells call cytokines to speed healing. It also slows the blood-clotting mechanism, which improves circulation and boosts the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the inflamed area," explains Eric Beaverman, MD, author of Younger (Thinner) You Diet. In fact, papain injections have been used to relieve the distress caused by slipped discs in the back.

How to Buy & Store:

• When shopping, steer clear of papayas that are bruised, shriveled or have soft spots. (What a darling little well intentioned however offensive statement!)
• Papayas are picked green and will ripen at room temperature; they're ready to eat when the skin is reddish-yellow and yields slightly to the touch (like a pear).
• Once ripe, store papayas in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to one week.

Stomach-Soothing Papaya Smoothie

Frozen strawberries help thicken this morning beverage without the addition of ice.

1 cup cubed ripe papaya

6 frozen strawberries

1/2 cup plain soymilk

1 Tbs. lime juice

1 tsp. light agave nectar or honey

1/4 tsp. fresh grated ginger

Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

One serving, 166 calories, 5 g protein, 2 g total fat (<1>

Source: Vegetarian Times April 2009