According to digital creator Ted Carr, it is apparently possible to bank on papaya and mangoes to build muscle. We were as surprised to hear this as you might be!
To understand whether mango and papaya can indeed be a good alternative to protein for building muscle, indianexpress.com spoke to a holistic nutrition expert.
“Let’s get this straight– when it comes to muscle building, protein is the MVP (Most Valuable Player). It’s like the bricks and mortar of muscle construction. So, can mango and papaya substitute protein? My answer is, not quite,” shared Isha Lall, Holistic Nutritionist & Ayurvedic Wellness Coach.
But before we ditch these delicious fruits, let’s dive into the health benefits they bring to your fitness journey.
Lall shared that she calls papaya ‘the fruit of angels’.
“Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that helps digest or break down protein. While papaya itself isn’t a protein source, it helps your body utilize the protein you eat more effectively,” she explained.
Papaya is rich in Vit A & C and also has anti-inflammatory effects. She said that all of this is helpful for muscle repair, reducing inflammation and speeding up recovery time.
Story continues below this ad
According to Lall, mangoes are rich in carbohydrates. “While carbs aren’t protein, they provide the necessary energy for your workouts. Think of carbs as the fuel in your car – without it, you’re not going anywhere,” she explained.
Packed with vitamins A and C, she shared that mangoes aid in muscle repair and recovery. Vitamin C, in particular, is an antioxidant that reduces muscle soreness.
She added that as per Ayurveda, both these fruits are Sattvic foods, which means that they are energy boosting foods and not draining when consumed in moderation.
“Protein is needed for muscle synthesis and keeping you fuller for longer, aiding in weight management. While protein is irreplaceable, mango and papaya can be just fantastic additions to a balanced diet. They provide energy, aid digestion, and help with muscle recovery,” said Lall.
Story continues below this ad
Mangoes and papayas are great, but they can’t replace protein (Source: Freepik)
How often can you eat these fruits?
Lall suggested having 1 cup (about 150-160 grams) per serving of mangoes and 1 cup (about 140-150 grams) per serving of papaya around 3-4 times a week.
What should you keep in mind?
Balance is Key: Mangoes and papayas are great, but they can’t replace protein. Include them as part of a balanced diet with sufficient protein sources.
Watch the Sugar: Both fruits are high in natural sugars. Overeating can spike your blood sugar levels.