Amazing Health Benefits of Dragon Fruit
When I was a child, I used to hate dragon fruit since it looked foreign and unappetizing to me—green spikey leaves and everything. Little did I know that this powerful fruit bears a lot of health benefits.
What is a Dragon Fruit?
A dragon fruit, also known as strawberry pear or pitaya, is a tropical fruit of several cactus species indigenous to Mexico and Central America. It grows on a climbing cactus called Hylocereus. Pitaya has a bright red exterior surface and spiky green leaves that resemble flames. Its sweet-tasting similarity to kiwi + watermelon-like flesh has a unique texture, freckled with black seeds.
On top of that, do you know that dragon fruits have several varieties? Yes, you’ve read that right! Dragon fruit has different types depending on its hybrid. However, it is easier to categorize depending on the color of its skin and flesh.
Pink skin with white flesh (Hylocereus undatus).
This is the most well-known kind of dragon fruit. However, it is also considered to have the least sweet to mild bland taste.
Pink skin with red or pink flesh (Hylocereus polyrhizus).
In comparison to white-fleshed dragon fruit, this variant is frequently larger and sweeter.
Vibrant pink skin with purple flesh (Hylocereus guatemalensis).
This variety is also known as pitaya roja and is native to Central and South America.
Yellow skin with white flesh (Selenicereus megalanthus).
This is known as the smallest and sweetest kind of dragonfruit. However, this is also the most difficult to find.
Now that we have an idea about the types of dragon fruit let’s move on to its nutritional value and health advantages!
Amazing Health Benefits of Dragon Fruit
Strengthens Immune System
Dragon fruit is high in Vitamin C and other antioxidants such as betacyanins and betaxanthins, which are good for our immune system.
Boosts Iron Levels
According to the World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, dragon fruits include potassium, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus minerals. While calcium, copper, and iron are present in trace levels.
Red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body, can’t be produced without iron. While Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron and strengthens the immune system. Both play crucial roles in controlling the most fundamental processes in our bodies.
Prevents Cancer
According to some studies, dragon fruits have components that help prevent cancer. It contains beta-carotene, lycopene, and betalains that have the potential to fight cancer cells.
Reduces Inflammation
This fruit’s high concentration of natural anti-inflammatory compounds makes it ideal for providing rapid relief from pain and swelling.
Aids in Weight Loss
Dragon fruit benefits weight loss because of its low calorie and carbohydrate content. Its high fiber content also aids in fullness, so you won’t feel hungry soon after eating.
Betacyanin, another compound found in this fruit, has been shown in some research to help manage diabetes and prevent obesity.
Lowers Blood Sugar levels
The high fiber and antioxidant content of dragon fruit, particularly the red variant, can lower insulin resistance. These substances help manage blood sugar levels and improve the conditions of people who are pre-diabetic or diabetic.
This super-food can be consumed raw, in juice form, and can also be added to your salads!
What are you waiting for? Try munching some Pitaya and share with us your experience in the comment section below.
