The bright pink fruit with its scaly outer looks exotic no
doubt, and probably this is the reason why it dons a mystical name – dragon
fruit. Belonging to the cactus family, it gets its generic name drawing
from what the locals refer to it throughout Southeast Asia – dragon scales,
dragon crystal, dragon pearl fruit, or green dragon. The scaly outer encloses a
white or red fleshy inner speckled with black seeds, which is sweet in flavor
and extremely refreshing. It is said that the best way to enjoy dragon fruit is
to eat it as is and fresh. All you need to do is peel the scaly outer and then
slice the inner flesh as per your liking or you can even scoop it out using a
spoon. Add it to your fruit bowl or drizzle with a little honey and enjoy it as
a quick snack. It is also commonly used to shake up mocktails and
other beverages as it tends to blend well with other flavors. Known as pitaya in
Hindi, it is a powerhouse of nutrition, equipped with many health benefiting
properties. Moreover, it is low in calories, zero cholesterol, and
full of antioxidants.
If you need some convincing, here are a few reasons as to
why it is good for you. Know the benefits of dragon
fruits:
1. Low Cholesterol
Dragon fruit is extremely low in terms of cholesterol,
as well as saturated and trans fats. Regular consumption of the fruit can not
only be refreshing but also help you in maintaining a healthy heart in the long
run. For those of you who are on a weight loss regime, it may be a
good idea to include it in your diet. Moreover, the seeds present in the fruit
are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids which are essential for your well-being.
2. High in Fiber
According to a study done by the researchers at the
University of Leeds, increasing consumption of fiber-rich foods can
lower the risk of both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease
(CHD). Dragon fruit is a good source of dietary fiber,
therefore it is not only great for the heart but also helps in maintaining
blood pressure and weight.
3. Antioxidant-Rich
Vibrant in color, which also means that dragon
fruit is filled with phytonutrients that can provide you your
much-required dose of antioxidants. Antioxidants help in fighting free
radicals which could damage your cells and even lead to cancer. A diet rich in
antioxidants is said to keep your heart healthy and the skin young.
4. Heart Healthy
Because dragon
fruits are loaded with fiber and antioxidants, they both contribute to
keeping the heart healthy and young. They fight against plaque clogging up in
the arteries, maintaining the blood circulation in the body.
5. Skin Care
The exotic fruit is commonly used in natural remedies for
beauty because of its high antioxidant content as well as vitamins. Ancient
beauty practices in the Southeast Asian countries believe that making a paste
of dragon fruit flesh and applying it regularly on the
face can help in slowing down the process of aging, making you look
younger. The paste is also used in treating acne and sunburn.
6. High Source of Potassium
Dragon fruit is loaded with essential minerals,
particularly potassium and calcium which help in maintaining bone
structure. Regular consumption of potassium is extremely vital for cellular,
electrical, nervous functions of our body. In simpler words, potassium plays a
key role in maintaining water content, pH, or acid balance in our body.
According to a study done by Shiga University of Medical Science in Japan, if
you are a diabetic, having a diet rich in potassium may help you protect your
heart and kidney.
7. Vitamin C
Since dragon fruit is a good source of vitamin C, it helps in strengthening immunity, aiding the absorption of iron by the body, producing collagen which makes our teeth healthier, and promoting healthy and glowing skin. Vitamin C also helps boost your immunity, thereby keeping you from getting sick.