Dragon fruit, also known as pitahaya or strawberry pear is the fruit belonging to the family of cactus and genus Hylocereus. Also known as the Honolulu Queen, this vibrant pink fruit with vivid, leathery skin and scaly spikes is an exotic fruit that boasts immense nutrients for overall health.  The fruit grows near the mountains and the tree looks like a vine, the cactus blooms white flowers only during the night earning the name “Lady of the night “and moonflowers. And fruits start to grow once the flowers bloom. Also Read: Khirni: The Remarkable Health Benefits Of Adding This Tasty Fruit To The Diet

Dragon fruit, native to Mexico and Central America is also widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, Australia, Unites States, throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the globe. The scaly outer skin encloses white or red luscious fruit imbued with black seeds which are mildly sweet with a nutty flavour. It has the flavour which blends of both kiwi and pear. The perfect way to relish the fruit is to eat it as fresh, remove the outer skin and then scoop it out or slice the fruit into cubes as a healthy snack.

Dragon fruit is usually used to make mocktails and other refreshing beverages as it mends well with other flavours. It is known as pitaya in Hindi, overpowered with dense nutrient profile dragon fruit that offers a magnitude of healing health properties. As per the Journal of Food Science, even the peel of the fruit possesses beneficial properties and used widely in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmetic industry.

Nutritional Facts

Dragon fruit is low on calories and storehouses of antioxidants are a perfect addition in weight watcher’s regimen. The myriad of nutrients in this superfood include ample amounts of dietary fibre, carbohydrates, healthy omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, lycopene, carotene, betalains, vitamins C, B1, B2 and high reserves of minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron and sodium. Besides this, dragon fruit also contains a host of phytonutrients that are well-known to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

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Wellness Benefits Of Dragon Fruit:

Promotes Healthy Gut

Prebiotics play a vital role in boosting the good bacterial growth in the gut. The abundance of dietary fibre oligosaccharide in dragon fruit stimulates the growth of gut-friendly bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria which promotes the digestion process. The richness of fibre adds bulk to the stool assisting in stimulating the peristaltic movement and release of digestive enzymes and regulating the bowel movements. Dragon fruit is best to treat conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and certain cancers. Also Read: Gluten-Free: 5 Food Groups You Should Eat For A Healthy Gut

Potent Anticancer Effects

The powerful antioxidant properties in dragon fruit are valuable in preventing cancers. As per the study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity Journal, dragon fruit acts on breast cancer cells and averts the growth of tumour cells. Notable amounts of oligosaccharides, the dietary fibre is effective in reducing the risk of colon cancer.

Strengthens The Immune System

The essence of vitamin C and antioxidants in dragon fruit facilitates in strengthening the immune system. The nutrient-dense fruit promotes the absorption of iron and stimulates the production of collagen which improves the natural glow of the skin. The flesh and peel of dragon fruit with a high level of flavonoid, vitamin C and polyphenol boost immunity, increases platelet count, treat dengue and keep infections at bay.

Regulates Diabetes

Dragon fruit is a healthy addition in a diabetics meal plan, the fruit is beneficial in lowering the blood sugar levels. High on dietary fibre and low in calories dragon fruit stabilizes the blood sugar by reducing the blood sugar spikes and counteract insulin resistance.

Heart Healthy

Immense amounts of flavonoids, antioxidants in dragon fruit play an optimal role in improving cardiac health. The vibrant pink fruit is high in betalains reduces the LDL cholesterol levels and seeds rich in omega 3 and omega 9 fatty acids reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, this fibre-rich fruit regulates blood pressure, maintain weight and thereby uplifts heart health.

Conclusion:

Dragon fruit is a delightful superfood which supplies you with essential nutrients, prebiotics, antioxidants, dietary fibre and phytonutrients. Regular addition of this nutrient-dense fruit is well-known to improve heart health, promote digestion, boost immunity and enhance skin health. Reap the wellness incentives of this luscious fruit and add variety to your fruit intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dragon fruit low in calories?

Yes, dragon fruit is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to manage their weight. Additionally, the high fibre content in this fruit helps you feel full and satisfied for a longer period, thus preventing sudden hunger pangs.

Does dragon fruit contain vitamin C?

Yes, dragon fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function, skin health, and collagen production. Consuming dragon fruit regularly can help boost your vitamin C intake.

Is dragon fruit good for digestion?

Yes, dragon fruit contains both soluble and insoluble fibre, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Including dragon fruit in your diet can promote overall digestive health.

Does dragon fruit have any specific benefits for skin and hair?

Yes, the antioxidants and vitamin C found in dragon fruit can help protect skin cells from damage caused by free radicals and promote collagen production, leading to healthier skin and hair.

Can dragon fruit help regulate blood sugar levels?

Some studies suggest that dragon fruit may help regulate blood sugar levels due to its fibre content and low glycemic index. However, more scientific studies are required to fully understand its effects on blood sugar control.

References:

March 2021Czech Journal of Food Sciences 39(No. 2)

DOI:10.17221/139/2020-CJFS

Authors: Hai Luu, Truc-Linh Le, Nga Huynh, Pablo Quintela-Alonso

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350133783_Dragon_fruit_A_review_of_health_benefits_and_nutrients_and_its_sustainable_development_under_climate_changes_in_Vietnam

Authours: Monica Joshi 1, Bala Prabhakar 1

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32378233/