Dragon fruit is a fruit which is known as Pitaya. Its color is light pink. It tastes like watermelon and kiwi. Dragon fruit is mainly produced in America and South Asia. Now it is being cultivated all over the world. Dragon fruit is very beneficial for health. It contains many types of nutrients. Such as calcium, Vitamin B3, Iron, Carbohydrate, Vitamin B1, Phosphorus. Vitamin B2, Vitamin C, fibre, antioxidant etc. We will know about side effect of dragon fruit in this article.
It strengthens the immune system, improves digestion and makes the skin glow. This fruit is also considered beneficial for patients of diabetes. High blood pressure and heart disease. Dragon fruit has a mild sweet taste and can be eaten raw, as a juice or in a salad. Its seeds are also rich in nutrients.
Nowadays the demand for dragon fruit is increasing rapidly in the market. And it has become a profitable crop for farmers. Thus, dragon fruit is not only a beautiful looking fruit. But it is also extremely beneficial for health.
Read Related:- Green apple benefits
Overview of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is a very nutritious and attractive fruit. This fruit is very beautiful to look at and its outer part is pink or red. With green leaves that give it a dragon-like shape, which is why it is called “dragon fruit”. Its inner part is white or dark pink with small black seeds. Dragon fruit is originally a fruit of South America and Mexico.
But now it is grown in many countries including India. In India, it is mainly grown in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Its cultivation is good in hot climate and it can grow even in less water. So it is considered a beneficial crop. This fruit has many health benefits.
Nutrients of dragon fruit
| Nutrients | Value |
| Water Content | 87g |
| Magnesium | 26.4g |
| Fat | 0.4g |
| Potassium | 57mg |
| Protein | 2g |
| Vitamin A | 0.085mg |
| Vitamin C | 500mg |
| Calcium | 5.7mg |
| Zinc | 14mg |
| Copper | 31µg |
| Iron | 3.4mg |
Side effect of dragon fruit
Although dragon fruit is considered a superfood. its excessive consumption can also be harmful for some people. In this article, we will study the possible side effects of dragon fruit in detail.
Allergic reaction
Dragon fruit can cause allergies in some people, especially those who are already allergic to any fruit or food. Allergy symptoms may occurred like Itching or red rash on the skin. Swelling, especially in the lips, tongue and throat. And difficulty breathing Nausea or vomiting. In such a situation, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Diarrhea and digestive issues
Dragon fruit is high in fiber. Although fiber helps in digestion, consuming it in excessive amounts can affect the digestive system. As a result, diarrhea (loose motion) Stomach cramps Bloating or gas problems may occur. So consume it in balanced quantities.
Increase blood sugar levels
Dragon fruit is rich in natural sugar (fructose). People suffering from diabetes should consume this fruit with caution. Excessive consumption May increase blood sugar levels and increase the risk for diabetics. Diabetic patients should consume this fruit only after consulting their doctor.
Change urine color
Consuming dark pink dragon fruit can sometimes change the color of urine. This is a temporary and harmless effect. But people who notice this change for the first time may be worried. This condition is similar to the color change that occurs when eating beets. Keep in mind that this is not a health problem, but if it persists, then definitely seek medical advice.
Impact on blood pressure
The antioxidants and potassium present in dragon fruit help control blood pressure. However, people suffering from low blood pressure should not consume it excessively. Because it Can further lower blood pressure May cause dizziness, fatigue, or fainting. Such people should consume dragon fruit only after consulting a doctor.
Impact on liver and kidney
Many types of antioxidants are found in dragon fruit. Although they are beneficial for the body. Excessive intake of antioxidants can sometimes affect the functioning of the liver and kidneys. Also oxalate are found in it Especially If the person is already suffering from liver or kidney disease they can suffered from kidney stones. It is side effect of dragon fruit. Then in such cases doctor’s advice is necessary.
Possibility of weight gain
Although dragon fruit is considered to be a weight-reducing fruit. It can also help in gaining weight if consumed in excessive amounts. This can mainly be due to the presence of its natural sugars and carbohydrates. So if you are planning to lose weight, keep its quantity under control.
Interaction with medications
Dragon fruit can have adverse interactions with certain medications. Such as blood pressure medications, diabetes medications and kidney or liver related medications. If you are on regular medical treatment, do not consume this fruit without consulting a doctor.
Carefully consume pregnant and lactating women
Dragon fruit is generally considered safe. But pregnant or lactating women should keep in mind. That consult a doctor before consuming it for the first time Seek medical help immediately in case of any allergic or unusual reaction. Be careful from side effect of dragon fruit.
Aware when eat children
Dragon fruit can be nutritious for children. But give them it in small quantities and in soft form Make sure there is no problem in swallowing the seeds Keep an eye on any allergy.
Precautions in side effect of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a nutrient-rich and delicious fruit. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals. Although it has many health benefits, it is important to take care of some precautions before consuming it.
Avoid access:- Dragon fruit is high in fiber. Excessive consumption of it can cause problems like bloating, gas or diarrhea. Therefore, it is advisable to eat it in limited quantities.
Possibility of allergy:- Some people may be allergic to dragon fruit. Which can cause itching, swelling, rashes or difficulty in breathing. When consuming it for the first time, take a small amount and observe the body’s reaction.
Caution for diabetic:- Dragon fruit contains natural sugar. Diabetics should consume it in limited quantities and as per the doctor’s advice. So that the blood sugar level does not get imbalanced.
Drug interactions:- If you are taking any particular medication. Then consult a physician before starting to consume dragon fruit as it may interact with certain medications.
Freshness and hygiene:- Always consume the fruit fresh after washing it thoroughly. Do not store the cut fruit for a long time as it increases the risk of infection.
How to eat dragon fruit
Washing:- First of all, wash the dragon fruit thoroughly with water so that the dust and dirt on it is cleaned.
Remove the peel:- Cut the fruit into two halves from the middle with a sharp knife. Now you can see the pulp inside it which is full of seeds. The peel is thick and not edible, so take out the pulp with the help of a spoon or you can also remove the peel by hand.
Cutting the pulp:- The pulp can be eaten by cutting it into small pieces. You can eat it directly or mix it in a fruit salad.
Make juice or smoothie:- Delicious smoothie or juice can also be prepared from dragon fruit. The taste can be enhanced by adding a little lemon and honey to it.
Right time to eat dragon fruit
Although you can eat this fruit anytime. But it can be eaten more beneficial in the form of shake in the morning at breakfast time. Or in the form of chaat in the evening at snack time.
Now the question arises how much quantity can be eaten. So a big half slice or bud of this fruit can be eaten in one go.
Ans. There are many benefits of eating dragon fruit, and there are also disadvantages of dragon fruit. Dragon fruit is beneficial for stomach, teeth and bones, appetite and diseases like diabetes. Also mention all disadvantage of dragon fruit in this article so read the blog post.
Ans. Dragon fruit is a juicy sweet fruit of pink color, but its color depends on the variety. Dragon fruit plant is like a cactus plant. Dragon fruit is very useful in the treatment of many diseases, that is why it is so expensive.
Ans. The Indian name of dragon fruit is Pitaya which has recently been named Kamalam by the Gujarat government.
