Dragon Fruit also called, ‘Pitaya’ is indigenous to Central America and also in several parts of Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Thailand. Dragon Fruit derives its name from its exotic exterior red skin and green scales that make it look like a Dragon.
They are largely available in two varieties, white or reddish pulp with black seeds and the outer skin is pink, red or yellow. It is mildly sweet in taste with a crunchy texture due to the presence of innumerable black seeds.
Dragon fruits have a good combination of essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, iron, calcium, phosphorus, antioxidants, phytochemicals, fibre, certain B vitamins and are low in calories.
Health Benefits:
- Dragon fruit helps in scavenging the free radicals that help slow the ageing process and also keep skin radiant and healthy.
- It helps build up a strong immune system and also aids in cancer prevention.
- Iron helps in fighting anaemia, dullness and tiredness.
- Vitamin C in dragon fruit helps the iron absorption making it best available to the body.
- It is a heart-healthy fruit that helps regulate blood pressure and lowers cholesterol levels.
- It also helps to manage blood sugar levels, keeps you fuller and aids in digestion.
- Dragon fruit aids carbohydrate metabolism and also promotes tissue and cell growth and maintenance.
- Dragon fruit is a low-calorie, high-density fruit with good fibre content that makes it a great choice for diabetics and weight watchers.
This tropical fruit is best when eaten chilled as fruit on its own, or it can also be added to salads or blended with ice to make smoothies or drinks.
So, don’t let this Super Fruit intimidate you by its looks! It is rather a whole package of wealthy nutrients, which will make you feel invigorated in the long run.
