The papaya most often found in Cuba is the large Mexican variety with a red-orange flesh. When ripe, the skin turns yellow and the fruit is soft to the touch. Papaya is thought to aid digestion and act as a natural diuretic. Some people have a sensitivity to an enzyme that the fruit secretes, so it is advisable to wear rubber gloves when peeling and cutting up papayas, and to wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
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