Who would have thought that something this gorgeous in pink would grow on a thorny cactus and be so rich in micronutrients? Always remember to eat or drink this fruit in moderation and never overeat. Balance diet is the key.
Dragon Fruit is high in fiber, antioxidants, B Vitamins, Calcium, Magnesium, Riboflavin, Niacin, Iron, Phosphorus, Phytoalbumins. Did you know that 1 kilogram of fresh Dragon Fruit (Pitaya) contains 50% of your daily Vitamin C.
Additionally, 1 oz of dragon fruit has 22.5 g of net carbohydrates in it. Unfavorably, that has way too many carbs to be keto-friendly. However, the good news is that this fruit has a low sugar and fat content.
Benefits of Dragon Fruit: (Pitaya)
Helps Prevent Memory Loss – Dragon fruit consumption on a regular basis may reduce the risk of brain degeneration. A study on animals revealed that red dragon fruit extract aids in memory and learning after lead exposure.
Good for the Skin because of its Vitamin C level
Helps control Glucose levels – Dragon fruit has been shown to have anti-diabetic effects according to evidence in animal experiments by rebuilding pancreatic cells and reducing fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) resistance. Source
Helps Neutralize Cell Damaging Free Radicals – It contains a lot of antioxidants, including betacyanin, phenolic acid, and flavonoids. These organic compounds shield your cells from the harm caused by free radicals, which are chemicals that can cause conditions like cancer and early aging. It has a lot of fiber and is naturally fat-free.
Good for the Eyes – Dragon fruit is rich in vitamin A and C and carotene. These vitamins are known to nourish and protect the cornea.
Good for the Teeth – Because it contains a lot of vitamin C, dragon fruit supports a healthy immune system, helps the body better absorb iron, and produces collagen that strengthens teeth.
Good for the Heart – The reddish flesh of dragon fruit includes betalains, which lower LDL cholesterol and give the fruit its red color. Omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids, which are excellent for the heart and lower the risk of cardiovascular disorders, are abundant in the fruit’s tiny dark black seeds. Source
Helps Lower Blood Pressure – Natural substances found in dragon fruit, such as flavonoids, betacyanins, and carotenoids, may reduce blood pressure.
Good for our Bones – This superfruit helps to strengthen bones and maintain good bone health because it contains 18% magnesium. You only need to consume one glass of smoothie with dragon fruit each day.
Dragon Fruit Smoothie
INGREDIENTS:
2 medium dragon fruit
3 tablespoon condensed milk
¼ cup frozen/fresh blueberry (or any fruit like banana or frozen strawberries)
1 small cup yogurt (or 1 cup milk will do)
4 pieces ice cubes
INSTRUCTIONS:
Peel Dragon Fruit and chop the fruit flesh into cubes.
Prepare a blender, and add dragon fruit, condensed milk, blueberries/banana, ice cubes, yogurt/milk. Blend them all together for about 5 seconds (interval) until smooth.
Transfer into a tall glass. Serve right away while chilled. Enjoy!
