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60 61 Papaya also has a rich source of proteolytic enzymes, such as papain, chymopapain, caric- ain, and glycylendopeptidase that all greatly aid in the digestive process. These proteolytic enzymes found in papaya improve digestion by breaking down proteins into individual amino acids. Undigested proteins can lead to gastroin- testinal problems and an overgrowth of flatu- lence which can cause bacteria in the colon. Along with their powerful antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene, papaya contains high levels of Vitamins C and A that, together, help reduce the oxidation of cholesterol in the arteries. Cholesterol oxidation leads to plaque blocked arteries that can result in heart attacks. The fiber found in papaya can also lower unde- sirable LDL levels in the blood by inhibiting its absorption during digestion. Increasing intake of powerful antioxidants and vitamins found in papaya can improve PREFERRED VENDOR n Newport Fersan Jamaica Limited www.newportfersan.com ADVANCED FARM TECHNOLOGIES LTD. blood flow and reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Papaya is also a great source of folate, which helps control homocysteine levels in the bloodstream. High levels of homocyste- ine in the blood damage blood vessels and can cause cardiovascular disease, heart disease, and stroke. Finally, the proteolytic enzymes in papa- ya can digest the fibrin protein layer of cancer cells that usually surrounds and protects them. This can leave the cancerous cells more suscep- tible to the body’s immune response and hinder growth, inhibiting the cancer from spreading. Deliciously sweet with musky undertones and a soft, butter-like consistency, it is no won- der the papaya was reputably called the “fruit of the angels” by Christopher Columbus. Once considered quite exotic, they can now be found in markets throughout the year. And, thanks to Advanced Farm Technologies Jamaica Ltd., they are available in abundance throughout the United States.