Papaya + Lemon: A Nutrient-Blocking Combination You Should Avoid
Papaya + Lemon: A Nutrient-Blocking Combination You Should Avoid Papaya + Lemon: A Nutrient-Blocking Combination You Should Avoid Papaya is rich in enzymes and vitamins, while lemon is high in acidity and vitamin C. Both are healthy on their own — but when mixed together, this pairing may actually reduce nutrient absorption and irritate the stomach. Why This Combination Isn’t Ideal Papaya contains papain , a digestive enzyme that helps break down proteins. However, the strong acidity of lemon can weaken the activity of papain. This means: • Nutrients from papaya may not be absorbed efficiently • Digestion may slow down • Sensitive individuals may feel mild acidity or discomfort Enzyme Neutralization Papain works best in a mildly alkaline environment. But lemon shifts the stomach toward an acidic state, reducing the natural benefits of papaya’s enzymes. Risk of Stomach Irritation The combination becomes especially irrit...