The major groups of phytochemicals that have been suggested as a natural source of antioxidants may contribute to the total antioxidant activity of plant materials including polyphenols, carotenoid and traditional antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and E.
Antioxidant is any substance that when present at low concentration compared to those of an oxidisable substrate significantly delays or prevents oxidation of that substrate. Antioxidants are chemical compounds that can bind to free oxygen radicals preventing these radicals from damaging healthy cells where as pro-antioxidant act indirectly either by modulation of direct agents or by regulation of the biosynthesis of antioxidant proteins.
Studies on the antioxidant contents of fruits and vegetables are increasing because natural antioxidant consumption has been found to be related with decreased risk for cancer and heart diseases. Research indicated that the consumption of papaya fruits reduced oxidative stress and altered lipid profiles. Thus, it could reduce the risk of diseases caused by free radical activities such as cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
Several studies showed that phenolic compounds are the major bioactive phytochemicals with human health benefits.
Antioxidants activity in papaya
