Dragon fruit benefits (pitaya) is an exotic, attractive, juicy, and nutritious fruit. And primarily belonging to the cactus family. Its outer layer is deep pink or red, covered with green, pointed, leaf-like scales. Its flesh is white or deep purple, containing tiny black seeds. This fruit is rich in vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, calcium, and minerals.
Regular consumption boosts immunity, strengthens the digestive system and improves skin. Also beneficial for hair health, and provides energy. It is considered to have a mildly sweet, aromatic, and refreshing taste.
Related:- Kiwi fruit benefits
What is dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is an attractive tropical fruit with a deep pink or red outer skin and green leaf-like buds at the top. It is also known as pitaya or kamal in India. Its flesh is white or red, containing small black seeds. This fruit is mildly sweet and juicy. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and antioxidants.
Which help boost the body’s immunity, improve digestion, and maintain healthy skin. Dragon can also be eaten as a salad, smoothie, dessert, or juice. Regular consumption provides energy and cools the body.
Nutritional overview
Dragon fruit nutrients (per 100g).
- Calories 50–60 kcal
- Water 85–90 g
- Carbohydrates 11–13 g
- Protein 1.1–1.8 g
- Dietary Fiber 3 g
- Fat 0.1–0.6 g
- Vitamin C 20–25 mg
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) 0.04 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) 0.05 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) 0.16 mg
- Calcium 8–10 mg
- Iron 0.6–1 mg
- Magnesium 15–20 mg
- Phosphorus 25 mg
- Potassium 200–250 mg
- Zinc 0.3 mg
- Antioxidants
Dragon fruit benefits
Dragon fruit is a nutrient-rich tropical fruit that provides energy and freshness. It is rich in vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. Which are beneficial for skin, digestion, and heart health. It also protects the body from disease by boosting immunity. Let’s know 15 dragon fruit benefits which described below.
Boost immunity
Dragon fruit is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which strengthen the body’s immune system. It protects against free radicals and helps prevent illnesses like colds and flu.
Improves digestive system
The fiber in this fruit improves digestion and relieves constipation. It cleanses the intestines and promotes the growth of good bacteria, maintaining a healthy gut.
Brightens skin
Due to the vitamin C and antioxidants in dragon fruit, it reduces wrinkles and blemishes. Consuming it improves skin from within and keeps it glowing and youthful.
Beneficial for weight loss
Dragon fruit benefits is very low in calories but high in fiber. It keeps the stomach full for a long time, reducing cravings and aiding in weight loss.
Beneficial for hair
Vitamins B and C found in dragon fruit strengthen hair roots. Regular consumption of dragon fruit adds shine to hair, reduces hair loss, and promotes hair growth.
Beneficial for diabetics
Dragon fruit has a low glycemic index, which helps control blood sugar levels. The fiber content in it balances insulin levels, making it a safe choice for diabetics.
Keeps the body hydrated
This fruit has a high water content, which helps maintain hydration. Dragon fruit cools the body during summer and prevents dehydration.
Strengthens bones and teeth
Dragon fruit contains calcium, phosphorus, and iron, which strengthen bones and teeth. It also helps prevent bone-weakening diseases like osteoporosis.
Prevent cancer
This fruit contains phytoalbumin and antioxidants that inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It removes toxins from the body and prevents serious diseases like cancer.
Keeps the liver healthy
Dragon fruit benefits helps flush out toxins accumulated in the liver. The antioxidants present in it protect the liver from free radicals, keeping it healthy and active.
Improves eyesight
The beta-carotene and vitamin A present in it strengthen the eye muscles. Consuming dragon fruit is considered beneficial for improving eyesight and preventing problems like night blindness.
Useful for pregnant women
Dragon fruit contains folate, iron, and calcium. Which are helpful in the development of pregnant women and the fetus. It helps prevent anemia and protects the health of both mother and child.
Rich in anti-aging properties
The antioxidants in this fruit regenerate skin tissue. Consuming dragon fruit helps reduce wrinkles, loose skin, and signs of aging, leading to a youthful appearance.
Provides energy
Dragon fruit benefits contains ample amounts of carbohydrates and natural sugars, which provide instant energy. It relieves fatigue, weakness, and laziness, keeping the body active throughout the day.
Beneficial for heart health
This fruit contains monounsaturated fats and omega fatty acids. Which help lower bad cholesterol. That regulates blood pressure and helps reduce the risk of heart disease
How to eat dragon fruit
There are many delicious and easy ways to eat dragon fruit. This fruit is prickly on the outside and soft on the inside, with a mildly sweet and refreshing taste. Proper preparation before eating it is essential to ensure you can reap all its nutrients. Let’s know how to eat dragon fruit in detail.
- Wash the fruit:- First, rinse the dragon fruit thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or dust from its surface.
- Cut:- Cut it lengthwise with a sharp knife. Inside, you will see white or red pulp containing small black seeds.
- Remove with a spoon:- The pulp can be easily removed with a spoon, just like a kiwi fruit.
- Cut into small pieces:- If desired, cut the pulp into small pieces and add it to salads, smoothies, or juices.
- Eat cold:- Eating it chilled in the refrigerator is even more delicious and refreshing.
- Make juice or smoothie:- You can blend dragon fruit pieces with milk or yogurt to make a smoothie or simply juice it.
- Use in desserts:- color and flavor make it a great addition to ice cream, yogurt, or pudding.
- Consume on an empty stomach:-Eating dragon fruit on an empty stomach in the morning provides natural energy and improves digestion.
Types of dragon fruit
Red Peeled White Flesh Dragon Fruit:-This type of dragon fruit has a deep red or pink exterior. While the inner flesh is white. Its taste is sweet and slightly sour.
Red Peeled Red Flesh Dragon Fruit- This variety has a red exterior and a deep red or pink interior. It is rich in antioxidants and is considered to be more sweet in taste.
Yellow Peeled White Flesh Dragon Fruit:- This variety is bright yellow on the outside, with a white and juicy inner flesh. Its taste is considered to be the sweetest and most aromatic.
Blue or Purple Dragon Fruit (Hybrid variety):- This is a new hybrid variety with a light purple or blue flesh. It is attractive for both its nutrition and color.
Wild Dragon Fruit:- This is a naturally occurring variety, small in size but rich in flavor and medicinal properties.
Origin of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit originated in Mexico, Central America, and South America. It was later cultivated in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, and other Asian countries.
Dragon fruit taste and texture
This fruit has a mildly sweet flavor, reminiscent of a mix of kiwi and pear. Its flesh is juicy, soft, and refreshing.
Botanical family
Dragon fruit belongs to the Cactaceae family, hence its name “Pitaya” or “Pitahaya.”
Night blooming flower
Dragon fruit flowers bloom only at night and wither by morning, hence its name “Night-Blooming Cereus.”
Flower fragrance
Its flowers are very fragrant, and the large white flowers can grow up to 30 centimeters long.
Fruit color
The skin can be pink, yellow, or red, while the inner flesh is white, red, or purple.
Seeds
The small black seeds of dragon fruit are edible. And contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Plant structure
The plant resembles a leafless, cactus-like succulent that can store water for long periods.
Cultivation properties
Dragon fruit plants can bear fruit for up to 20 years, and once fruiting, they can produce 5–6 times a year.
Secret of color
Red dragon fruit contains a natural pigment called betacyanin. Which acts as an antioxidant in the body.
Reason for the name
The thorny projections on its peel resemble dragon skin. Which is why it is called “dragon fruit.”
Cultural significance
In asian countries, it is considered an auspicious fruit and is given as a gift during festivals.
Water conservation
The dragon fruit plant can thrive even in desert areas with limited water. So it is beneficial for the environment.
Seed germination time
Its seeds germinate in 15–20 days when sown directly in the soil.
Interest in space research
Scientists are also looking at dragon fruit as a future “space food,” as it can grow with limited resources.
How cultivate dragon fruit
Dragon fruit cultivation has become a profitable option for farmers these days. This fruit is renowned for its attractive color, unique flavor, and health benefits. Below are the key steps for its cultivation.
Suitable climate
Dragon fruit thrives in warm and dry climates. The plant grows rapidly in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. Extreme cold or frost can harm the plant, so it’s best to grow it in warmer regions.
Soil selection
This plant thrives in loamy or sandy loam soil. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7. Proper drainage is essential, as waterlogging can cause root rot.
Plant preparation
Dragon fruit is cultivated from stem cuttings. Plant healthy stems 20–25 cm long in the soil. Keep them in a shady place for 4–6 days and water them until they form roots.
Planting time
Dragon fruit is best planted during the monsoon season, between June and September. During this time, the soil is sufficiently moist, which strengthens the roots.
Support system
This plant grows like a vine, so concrete or wooden pillars are essential for support. A sturdy pillar is installed for each plant. And a tire or iron ring is placed on top of it to allow the branches to spread.
Irrigation method
Dragon fruit does not require a lot of water. Light irrigation every 10–12 days is sufficient. Stop irrigation during the rainy season to protect the plant from waterlogging.
Fertilizers and manure
Using natural cow dung manure or compost is best. Adding 10–15 kg of organic manure to each plant increases fruit production. Apply nitrogen and potash fertilizers twice a year.
Pest control
Dragon fruit is rarely infested with pests, but aphids and snails are sometimes seen. Neem sprays or organic insecticides are effective methods of protection.
Flowering and fruiting
Dragon fruit plants begin flowering 10–12 months after planting. These flowers bloom at night and wither in the morning. The fruit ripens within 30–40 days after pollination.
Harvesting
The fruit is ready to be harvested when it changes from green to deep pink. The first harvest is obtained one year after planting, and a plant can bear fruit for up to 20 years.
Yield and income
One acre of land yields 8–10 tons of dragon fruit annually. Its market price ranges from ₹150 to ₹300 per kilogram, providing farmers with excellent profits.
Dragon fruit benefits for diabetes
Dragon fruit benefits is considered beneficial for diabetics. It’s rich in natural antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, which help regulate blood sugar levels. This fruit increases insulin sensitivity and balances glucose absorption in the body. Dragon fruit has a low glycemic index, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar. Regular consumption strengthens the digestive system. And helps manage weight, making it extremely beneficial for diabetics.
Dragon fruit benefits for female
Dragon fruit is a highly beneficial fruit for women. Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C, it provides overall health benefits for women. It helps enhance skin radiance, maintain hormonal balance, and reduce fatigue during menstruation. Dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants that protect skin from wrinkles and reduce signs of aging. It also strengthens bones and improves blood circulation, boosting energy. And making women more active and healthy.
How choose right dragon fruit for us
To choose the right dragon fruit, first pay attention to its color and texture. Fresh dragon fruit has a bright pink or red skin and fresh green leaves. If the fruit appears too soft or wrinkled, it may be overripe or old. Always choose fruit that is medium in size and feels slightly soft when pressed. It should also have a good weight, which indicates juiciness. When purchasing, avoid bruised or blemished fruit and prefer fragrant fruit.
Side effects of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is delicious and nutritious, but excessive consumption can also lead to some side effects. Its cooling properties can cause skin itching, swelling, or allergic reactions in some people. Consuming excessive amounts can cause digestive problems such as stomach pain, gas, or diarrhea. Diabetics should consume it with caution, as it can affect blood sugar levels.
It can cause weakness or dizziness in those with low blood pressure. Excessive consumption can sometimes cause urine to appear pink or red, which is normal but can cause anxiety. Furthermore, its cooling properties can aggravate colds, and prolonged excessive consumption can put pressure on the kidneys. Therefore, it’s safest and most beneficial to enjoy dragon fruit in moderation.
Conclusion
Dragon fruit benefits is a nutrient-rich wonder fruit. That helps boost the body’s immune system, enhance skin health, and maintain digestive balance. Its antioxidant properties protect cells by removing toxins from the body. Regular consumption helps treat heart, liver, and diabetes-related problems. Its natural flavor, fiber, and vitamins make it an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle.
