Price is per kilogram weight.
Dragon fruit is low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making it a good addition to any weight loss diet. According to the USDA, the fruit contains good amounts of fiber, lycopene, and carbohydrates as well as water-soluble vitamins such as carotene, vitamin C and B vitamins niacin and riboflavin. The mineral wealth of this fruit is also high and includes magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and sodium.
These fruits are commonly known in English as "dragon fruit", a name used since around 1993, apparently resulting from the leather-like skin and prominent scaly spikes on the fruit exterior. The names pitahaya and pitaya derive from Mexico, and pitaya roja in Central America and northern South America, possibly relating to pitahaya for names of tall cacti species with flowering fruit. The fruit may also be known as a strawberry pear or thang.
| Nutritional value per 100g (3.5oz) | |
|---|---|
| Energy | 268kcal (1,120kJ) |
|
82.14 g
|
|
| Sugars | 82.14 g |
| Dietary fiber | 1.8 g |
|
3.57 g
|
|
| Vitamins | Quantity% DV |
| Vitamin C |
11% 9.2 mg
|
| Minerals | Quantity% DV |
| Calcium |
11% 107 mg
|
| Sodium |
3% 39 mg
|
Protective Against Cancer
A recent study on dragon fruit showed that this fruit may have anticancer properties particularly in the case of colon cancer. Along with the antioxidant quality of vitamin C that boosts the immune system, dragon fruits also contain other sources of natural antioxidants. According to research, carotene and lycopene, found in these fruits, are potent antioxidants that have been linked to a number of anti-carcinogenic qualities. They help in reducing the chances of prostate cancer as well as the size of tumors in the body. As dragon fruits boost your immune system, it is a good first step for those frequently getting sick, or even at a high risk of developing cancer.
Boosts Immune System
The high level of vitamin C found in dragon fruit helps boost immunity and it stimulates the activity of other antioxidants in the body as well. According to a 2011 research study, the flesh and the peel of the white and red pitayas have high polyphenol and flavonoid content which can help eliminate free radicals. This has been linked to preventing the proliferation of cancer cells. Also, these antioxidants work to increase the platelet count, thus treat dengue and help a faster recovery.
High in Fiber & Aids in Digestion
Research published in Food Chemistry also suggests that dragon fruits are rich in oligosaccharides that help promote the growth of gut bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. A 2015 study on natural prebiotics in Thailand showed that the fruit helped increase healthy gut flora, which is important for smooth digestion. Dragon fruits have a high fiber content, which means that they can help bulk up bowel movements, facilitating smooth passage through the digestive tract, stimulating peristaltic motion, and inducing a release of digestive juices. By regulating bowel function with dietary fiber, this fruit helps in preventing conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and even colorectal cancer.
Controls Diabetes
Regular consumption of dragon fruit is linked to a reduction in blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for type 2 diabetics and those with pre-diabetes. In a 2017 research review study, it was found that overall pre-diabetics showed a noticeable reduction in blood sugar levels as compared to people who had not eaten dragon fruit. Furthermore, prediabetics with higher consumption of dragon fruit showed greater blood glucose reduction.
Rich in Iron & Prevents Anemia
Iron, present in dragon fruits, is good for boosting the hemoglobin levels in anemic individuals. It also aids in the production of red blood cells (RBCs), which then helps in the proper oxygenation of vital organs.
Good Source of Antioxidants
Research published in the Journal of Food Science indicates that due to a high polyphenol and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity it can be used for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications both.
Rich in Magnesium & B Vitamins
Dragon fruit is also packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and the B-vitamins as well as magnesium. Benefits of magnesium include improving bone health and heart health. The B1, B2, and B3 vitamins help improve everything from blood pressure, skin health, and cholesterol levels to thyroid function, fluctuating hemoglobin levels, and carbohydrate metabolism.
Skin Care
The antioxidants in dragon fruit may help fight the signs of aging by reducing the harmful effects of free radicals in the body. They also aid in treating sunburn, acne, and dry skin. Vitamin C, contained in many fruits but particularly dragon fruit helps brighten the skin. Try adding dried dragon fruit powder to your daily juices and watch your skin become radiant.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Dragon fruit contains no unhealthy saturated fats. This leads to higher levels of HDL (good cholesterol) and lower levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) in the body. The chances of developing plaque in the arteries and veins are less, thereby reducing your chances of suffering from atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
Hair Care
Adding dragon fruit or adding dragon fruit extract powder to your daily diet helps in keeping the hair nourished and healthy. Its high amounts of nutrients help to reduce the damage done to hair by the chemicals present in artificial hair color. It also helps improve the texture and bring back the shine to your hair.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Dragon fruit powder is rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing the pain caused by arthritis and other medical conditions.
Eye Care
Dragon fruit is known to inhibit the growth of human cytochrome P450, a protein found in the liver. This protein is often linked with the occurrence of congenital glaucoma. Also, according to research published in the journal Food Chemistry, the beta-carotene content in this fruit helps in preventing macular degeneration and cataract formation by keep the eyes protected from harmful free radicals.
Strong Bones and Teeth
Dragon fruit is higher in calcium than many other fruits and can, therefore, help contribute to the daily calcium requirements needed to keep your bones healthy, improves the bone mineral density, and prevents osteoporosis. A study done by Tufts University showed that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables offers the right mix of nutrients, protein, and calcium to boost bone density.
Pregnancy
Dragon fruit is beneficial for pregnant women as it contains iron, B vitamins, and folate. Studies show that iron helps in preventing hemoglobin deficiency and also in preventing the occurrence of anemia. The B vitamins and folate help prevent birth defects and boost energy. Also, the mild laxative properties of dragon fruit help loosen the stool and regulate bowel movements. Moreover, the calcium content in it aids in the bone development of the fetus, thereby contributing to a healthy pregnancy. High levels of calcium and magnesium also help fight osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
Boosts Cognition
Dragon fruits contain B vitamins and are rich in vitamin C, both of which help in keeping the cell membranes healthy. This activity of the vitamins may help prevent the occurrence of cognitive disorders and keeps your brain functioning like Einstein!
Improves Respiration
It's high time you add dragon fruit to your diet if you are suffering from respiratory disorders like asthma. Dragon fruit extract capsules are also available, which help provide vitamin C and antioxidants. There is evidence that higher intakes of fruit and vegetables may have a positive impact on respiratory issues.