How To Eat A Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that’s low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants. Some people say it tastes like a cross between a pear and a kiwi. You can slice and eat the fruit as-is, try it with yogurt, or add it to a smoothie or salad. Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that has become increasingly popular in recent years.

1. Though people primarily enjoy it for its unique look and taste, evidence suggests it may provide health benefits as well.
2. This article takes a look at dragon fruit, including its nutrition, benefits, and how to eat it.
3. Dragon fruit grows on the Hylocereus cactus, also known as the Honolulu queen, whose flowers only open at night.

The plant is native to southern Mexico and Central America. Today, it is grown all over the world. It goes by many names, including pitaya, pitahaya, and strawberry pear. The two most common types have bright red skin with green scales that resemble a dragon — hence the name.

The most widely available variety has white pulp with black seeds, though a less common type with red pulp and black seeds exists as well. Another variety — referred to as yellow dragon fruit — has yellow skin and white pulp with black seeds. Dragon fruit may look exotic, but its flavors are similar to other fruits,

Its taste has been described as a slightly sweet cross between a kiwi and a pear. SUMMARY Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and Central America. Its taste is like a combination of a kiwi and a pear. Dragon fruit contains small amounts of several nutrients.

Calories: 60 Protein: 1.2 grams Fat: 0 grams Carbs: 13 grams Fiber: 3 grams Vitamin C: 3% of the RDI Iron: 4% of the RDI Magnesium: 10% of the RDI

Given the high amount of fiber and magnesium, as well as the extremely low calorie content, dragon fruit can be considered a highly nutrient-dense fruit. SUMMARY Dragon fruit is a low-calorie fruit that is high in fiber and provides a good amount of several vitamins and minerals.

Betalains: Found in the pulp of red dragon fruit, these deep red pigments have been shown to protect “bad” LDL cholesterol from becoming oxidized or damaged ( 4 ). Hydroxycinnamates: This group of compounds has demonstrated anticancer activity in test-tube and animal studies ( 5 ). Flavonoids: This large, diverse group of antioxidants is linked to better brain health and a reduced risk of heart disease ( 6, 7, 8 ).

One study compared the antioxidant properties of 17 tropical fruits and berries, While dragon fruit’s antioxidant capacity was not especially high, it was found to be best at protecting certain fatty acids from free radical damage ( 9, 10 ). SUMMARY Dragon fruit contains several antioxidants that protect your cells from damage.

• These include betalains, hydroxycinnamates, and flavonoids.
• Animal studies suggest that dragon fruit may provide various health benefits.
• Many of these are likely due to its fiber and antioxidant content.
• Both red and white varieties of dragon fruit have been shown to reduce insulin resistance and fatty liver in obese mice ( 11, 12, 13 ).

In one study, mice on a high-fat diet who received an extract of the fruit gained less weight and had reductions in liver fat, insulin resistance, and inflammation, which were attributed in part to beneficial changes in gut bacteria ( 13 ). Dragon fruit contains prebiotic fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut — potentially improving metabolic health ( 14 ).

Although this fruit may improve certain features of metabolic syndrome — a condition associated with type 2 diabetes — not all effects may be favorable. In a study in mice on a high-fat, high-carb diet, the group that received dragon fruit juice had better blood sugar responses and reductions in some liver enzyme markers, while another liver enzyme marker significantly increased ( 15 ).

In another study, rats with diabetes treated with an extract from the fruit had a 35% reduction in malondialdehyde, a marker of free-radical damage. They also had less arterial stiffness, compared to the control group ( 16 ). Study results on the effects of dragon fruit on type 2 diabetes in people are inconsistent, and more research is needed to confirm these beneficial effects ( 17 ).

1. SUMMARY Animal studies suggest that dragon fruit may improve insulin resistance, liver fat, and heart health.
2. However, the results of human studies are inconsistent.
3. Overall, dragon fruit appears to be safe.
4. However, people may develop an allergic reaction in some rare cases.
5. In two cases, women with no history of food allergies developed anaphylactic reactions after consuming a fruit mixture that contained dragon fruit.

Testing confirmed that they had antibodies against dragon fruit in their blood ( 18, 19 ). These are the only two reported allergic reactions at this point, but other people may be allergic to this fruit without knowing it. SUMMARY To date, there have been two reported cases of a severe allergic reaction to dragon fruit.

Select a ripe fruit with bright red, evenly colored skin that gives slightly when squeezed.Use a sharp knife and cut straight through the fruit, slicing it in half.You can use a spoon to eat the fruit out of the skin or peel the skin off and slice the pulp into small pieces.

Ideas for serving dragon fruit:

Simply slice it up and eat it as is.Chop it into small pieces and top with Greek yogurt and chopped nuts.Include it in a salad.

SUMMARY Dragon fruit is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other foods in healthy recipes. Dragon fruit is a low-calorie fruit that contains less sugar and fewer carbs than many other tropical fruits. It may offer some health benefits, but human studies are needed to verify this. Overall, dragon fruit is unique, incredibly tasty, and can add variety to your diet.

Is it OK to eat the skin of a dragon fruit?

This is perfect if you plan to make smoothies with the fruit. Unlike other types of fruit, the skin of a dragon fruit isn’t edible. One of the best things about dragon fruit is its versatility.

Are you supposed to eat dragon fruit raw?

Does it matter if dragon fruit is fresh or frozen? – Because of its popularity over the last few years, you can typically find dragon fruit either in the produce department or the frozen food section of your local supermarket. While dragon fruit is best eaten raw, you can also throw it on the grill like some other fruits. Enjoy it on its own or add it to:

Cocktails. Desserts. Fish, especially cod, tuna and mahi-mahi. Salads. Smoothies.

“Overall, the health benefits of dragon fruit make it an ingredient worth exploring,” encourages Prescott. “So, have fun and shake up your breakfast, make a new snack or try out a fun dessert with it.”

Who can’t eat dragon fruit?

Risk of Allergic Reactions – One of the main reasons why pregnant and nursing women should avoid consuming dragon fruit is the risk of allergic reactions. Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions after consuming dragon fruit. The symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, rashes, and difficulty breathing.

How do you tell if a dragon fruit is ripe?

How do you know if a dragon fruit is ripe? – When ripe, dragon fruit have a bright pink color and smooth skin. The skin should have few brown spots. Squeeze it slightly; if it’s firm and hard, it’s not yet ripe. If it is softer (but not too soft) and the flesh gives slightly when squeezed, it’s a good sign that it’s perfectly ripe.

Is dragon fruit better soft or hard?

When Is Dragon Fruit Ripe? – Here’s how to tell if a dragon fruit is ripe:

Ripe dragon fruit has a bright pink color with smooth skin The dragon fruit should not be rock hard. Instead, let it ripen a little until the flesh gives a little big, similar to a ripe avocado. If the dragon fruit feels mushy, it is overripe.

Is dragon fruit heavy to digest?

Good for Digestion This fruit has a rich source of oligosaccharides (a carbohydrate) that helps in the growth of good bacteria like flora, which aids in smooth digestion.

Should dragon fruit be refrigerated?

Storage – As with other fruits, you can keep these out at room temperature for several days as long as they’re uncut. Once cut, eat your dragon fruit immediately or store it in the fridge for a day or so until it begins to brown. If you’d like to slow the ripening of an uncut dragon fruit, store it in the fridge inside a plastic bag (to keep it from absorbing flavors and odors from other foods).

Does dragon fruit burn fat?

1. Promotes weigh loss – Due to its low calorie and carb content, dragon fruit can help with weight loss when incorporated into a healthy diet. In addition, it is rich in fiber that helps to keep you full and reduce over-eating at mealtimes. Dragon fruit also contains a substance called betacyanin, which according to some studies, can help with weight loss and improve lipid profile.

Is dragon fruit full of sugar?

1. Introduction – Pitaya, known as dragon fruit, belongs to the genus Hylocereus of the Cactaceae family. The species is native to southern Mexico, the Pacific side of Guatemala and Costa Rica, and El Salvador. There are three species in the genus Hylocereus,

These are Hylocereus guatemalensis (Hg), Hylocereus polyrhizus ( Hp ) and Hylocereus undatus (Hu), These species and their hybrids are grown commercially worldwide, There are distinct morphological differences in stem, flower and fruit characters in the genus Hylocereus spp. The fruit is white, crimson, or dark red, or pale yellow, depending on the variety, and the flesh is interspersed with small black seeds,

Hp is the common red-fleshed species and known to be a super fruit with high antioxidant capacity due to its dark red flesh. The fruit is highly decorative, with a bright red skin adorned with green scales. Hu is a vine-like cactus commonly grown as a nocturnal ornamental and fruit crop.

The fruit is highly decorative, with a bright red skin adorned with green scales. The flesh is white, juicy and delicious, Pitaya fruits are consumed fresh or processed into juice, jellies, marmalades, jams, wine and beverages, Fifteen years ago, pitaya was practically unknown but today is popular in the European market and in the global market, including Vietnam, Colombia, Mexico, Costa Rica, the USA (Florida and California) and Nicaragua,

Pitaya is considered a new and promising fruit. Australia, India, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Israel, and Turkey have begun to grow it and it has been commercialized and consumed in many parts of the world, Pitaya has great potential as a new crop for Mediterranean growers: it consumes little water, and it adapts well to the high temperatures present in the greenhouse.

Moreover, the market shows increasing demand for new, healthy exotic fruits, and the fruit of these crops are worldwide appreciated as a super fruit. Fruit quality is a term that denotes a degree of excellence, a high standard or value, for both the producer and the consumer. These distinctive quality features are contributed to by color, appearance, taste-aroma (flavor) and nutritional values.

There are a few studies on this subject in pitaya fruit. Volatile compounds and primary metabolites are important indicators of fruit quality and flavor that play an important role in determining product acceptability by consumers. Consumers determine their preferences according to these features,

Increasing awareness of the benefits of plant products to ensure adequate intake of macronutrients, dietary fiber, vitamins, micronutrients and phytochemicals that are very important to human health is increasingly widespread among the population. It has been reported that pitaya, which is very rich in bioactive substances such as betacyanins, phenolic compounds, polysaccharides and terpenoids, can be consumed as a preventive agent against cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders,

Recently, the identification and content of these phytochemicals in different plant products are of great importance due to their various positive effects on human health. Last decade, with the increasing death rate resulting from cancer, cardiovascular and heart diseases, more epidemiological studies have suggested that the healthy food and fruits may decrease the risk of these diseases.

Since pitaya does not contain cholesterol, saturated fat or trans-fat, it helps in regulating blood pressure and keeping cholesterol under control when consumed regularly. In addition, due to the high fiber content, it is easier to remove toxic substances from the body and the blood sugar level is kept in balance,

In recent years, there has been great interest in using natural antioxidants, including fruits, in preventive medicine and in the food industry, Due to their nutraceutical and beneficial properties, phytonutrients found in medicinal plants such as polyphenols (especially phenolic acids) are worth considering.

• These compounds are important bioactive secondary metabolites that have long been studied for their enhancement and prevention capacities and are therefore considered potential sources for pharmaceutical and medical applications.
• Pitaya has a moisture content of around 80%, protein content between 0.4 and 2.2 g, carbohydrate content between 8.5 g and 13.0 g, and its total sugar content is around 6.0 g per 100 g fresh weight,

Especially the red and white fleshed pitaya fruits are a rich source of phenolic compounds, vitamins (B1, B2, B3, C, niacin, pyridoxine and cobalamin), minerals (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, iron and zinc), proteins, fats, carbohydrates, sugars, fiber and volatiles,

It is also associated with high antioxidant capacity of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids and betacyanins, that have important functions for human health, Some epidemiological studies have shown that pitaya has various bioactivities such as antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, and wound healing,

Therefore, pitaya appears to have many important compounds. Thus, the fruit not only has economic value but also has a high potential for application in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Additionally, the fruit peel, pulp and seeds of pitaya are used in the manufacture of different foods such as ice cream, yogurt, fruit juice, jelly and marmalade,

Carbohydrates are one of the most important macronutrients found in abundance in the different tissues of pitaya. In recent years, a number of studies have been carried out investigating the properties and levels of carbohydrates obtained in the different tissues of pitaya, Sugars, together with phenolic components, play an important role in the sensory and nutritional quality of the product and may vary according to the cultivar, maturity stages, storage conditions, crop year and fruit development conditions.

It has been reported that dried pitaya peels are a rich source of pectin and dietary fiber (60–80%), Red pitaya fruit is very rich in iron content. Scientists have proven that consuming red pitaya fruit juice drastically increases hemoglobin and erythrocyte levels in pregnant women.

• Thus, consuming it during pregnancy is an alternative treatment for anemia,
• Jerônimo et al.
• Analyzed the flesh of the H.
• Undatus and found that the predominant fatty acids were oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acid as 50.8%, 21.5% and 12.6% of the total fatty acid content, respectively.
• Similarly, Ariffin et al.

analyzed the oil extracted from red and white pitaya seeds and found a high content of essential fatty acids, namely linoleic (~50%) and linolenic (~1%) acid, and other fatty acids such as cis-vaccenic acid (~3.0%), palmitic acid (17.5%), and oleic acid (22.7%).

The human health benefits of poly-and monounsaturated fatty acids have been documented and they help to reduce cholesterol and lipoprotein fractions, It has also been reported that linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids are required to maintain cell membranes, brain function, and transmission of nerve impulses,

In recent years, pitaya fruits have greatly increased in popularity worldwide due to their attractive colors, sweetness, juicy and pleasant taste. This fruit has been recognized as the most beautiful of the Cactaceae family, There are many species of the pitaya; however, the Hylocereus undatus is the best known and widely cultivated.

Due to having a red-purple color, pitaya is highlighted by global breeders for its rich polyphenol compounds and antioxidant capacities. Studies on pitaya are increasing in foreign countries but mostly focuses on processing technology such as wine, pigment extraction and optimization of fermentation conditions with some biochemical composition analysis.

Volatiles are often key components that play a role in determining fruit flavor but have not been adequately studied in pitaya, and studies of pitaya fruit aroma components are comparatively scarce. However, the aroma components and sugars in pitaya fruit, which are particularly important for fruit wine, are relatively less studied.

Nowadays, especially Hu or white-fleshed pitaya fruits are attracting more attention than other fruits because of their sensory properties, economic importance, and because they are high in antioxidants that help reduce many diseases, As it is known, tropical fruits are difficult to grow outside of tropical regions.

However, these fruits can be grown specially in microclimate conditions. In Turkey, some regions such as Mersin, Adana and Antalya have microclimatic conditions and are suitable for pitaya cultivation, Therefore, pitaya is a very economical product for many traditional producers because its cultivation requires little or no investment.

• It can thus be considered as an alternative product with high commercial potential.
• However, many of the detailed fruit qualities and differences among different flesh colored pitaya remain unclear.
• As far as we know, there is limited information on the detection of volatile profiles of pitaya flesh.
• Similar to sugars, aroma is also one of the most important fruit quality parameters for consumer acceptance and gives objective information for further breeding studies.

In this study, we determined and compared some nutritional parameters in the fruit flesh of two pitaya species ( H. polyrhizus : Siyam and H. undatus ; Vietnam Jaina) which are grown in Turkey. The results provide some fruit quality information for the selection of suitable pitaya species for growers in Turkey, especially the volatile compounds that will also set up a reliable database for the pitaya industry.

What is the healthiest fruit?

Eating a range of fruits provides the body with nutrients and antioxidants that can boost overall health and reduce the risk of disease. Good choices include oranges, blueberries, apples, avocados, and bananas, but there are many more to choose from. Fruits are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, and they are high in fiber.

Fruits also provide a wide range of health-boosting antioxidants, including flavonoids. Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables can reduce a person’s risk of developing heart disease, cancer, inflammation, and diabetes, Citrus fruits and berries may be especially powerful for preventing disease.

A 2014 study ranked “powerhouse” fruit and vegetables by high nutrient density and low calories, Lemons came out top of the list, followed by strawberry, orange, lime, and pink and red grapefruit. In this article, we look at the nutrition and the many and varied health benefits of these and other fruits you can find in the supermarket.

• Lemons are a citrus fruit that people often use in traditional remedies because of their health benefits.
• Like other citrus fruits, they contain vitamin C and other antioxidants.
• Antioxidants are essential for human health.
• These compounds mop up free radicals in the body that can damage the body’s cells and lead to diseases, such as cancers.

Researchers believe that the flavonoids in lemon and other citrus fruits have antibacterial, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. Citrus fruits, including lemons, contain active components called phytochemicals that benefit health. These include:

vitamin C folic acid potassium pectin

The juice from one 48 g lemon contains the following nutrients in grams (g) or milligrams (mg):

11 calories3.31 g carbohydrate 49 mg potassium18.6 mg vitamin C3 mg calcium 0.1 g of fiber

Lemons also contain thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, and vitamin A. Read more about the health benefits of lemons and lemon water here. How to eat lemons Use the juice of a lemon to flavor drinking water or squeeze over a salad or fish.

Try adding lemon juice to boiling water with a teaspoon of honey to help soothe a sore throat, It is also possible to eat the rind of organic lemons. Some people use the rind in recipes. Strawberries are a juicy, red fruit with a high water content. The seeds provide plenty of dietary fiber per serving.

Strawberries contain many healthful vitamins and minerals. Of particular note, they contain anthocyanins, which are flavonoids that can help boost heart health. The fiber and potassium in strawberries can also support a healthy heart. In one study, women who ate 3 or more servings per week of strawberries and blueberries — which are both known for their high anthocyanin content — had a lower risk of having a heart attack than those with lower intake.

17 calories4.15 g carbohydrate1.1 g of fiber9 mg of calcium7 mg of magnesium 83 mg of potassium31.8 mg of vitamin C

Strawberries also contain thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B-6, A and K. Read more about strawberries. How to eat strawberries Strawberries are a versatile fruit. People can eat them raw or add them to breakfast cereals or yogurt, blend them into a smoothie, or make them into jam.

65 calories16.27 g carbohydrate3.4 g of fiber61 mg of calcium14 mg of magnesium238 mg of potassium63.5 mg of vitamin C

Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. This vitamin is also essential for immune system function. It boosts immune function by helping the body to absorb iron from plant-based foods. The human body cannot make vitamin C itself, so people need to get this vitamin from their diet.Oranges also contain high levels of pectin, which is a fiber that can keep the colon healthy by binding to chemicals that can cause cancer and removing them from the colon.

vitamin A, a compound that is important for healthy skin and eyesightB-vitamins, including thiamin and folate, which help keep the nervous and reproductive systems healthy and help create red blood cells.

Read more about the benefits of oranges. How to eat oranges People can eat oranges on their own as a refreshing snack or by drinking a glass of pure orange juice. Juice oranges at home or choose a brand of fresh juice whose label states it is not from concentrate.

People can also grate orange peel into a salad, yogurt, or as a cereal topping to add extra flavor. Limes are a sour citrus fruit that provide a range of health benefits. Like other citrus fruits, limes provide a healthful dose of vitamin C. They also have similar health benefits, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

The juice of one lime provides the following nutrients :

11 calories3.7 g carbohydrate6 g calcium4 mg magnesium51 mg potassium13.2 mg vitamin C

Read more about the benefits of limes and lime water here. How to eat limes Limes work well in savory foods. Try adding the juice or grated peel of a lime to flavor salad dressings or rice dishes. Otherwise, juice a lime and add to hot or cold water for a refreshing drink.

52 calories13.11 g carbohydrate2.0 g fiber27 g calcium11 g magnesium166 g potassium38.4 g vitamin C

The flavonoids in grapefruits can help protect against some cancers, inflammation, and obesity, A review study suggests the compounds called furanocoumarins found in grapefruits can help protect against oxidative stress and tumors and may support healthy bones.

Some research from this review suggests that grapefruit furanocoumarins may have anticancer properties, which may be especially effective against breast cancer, skin cancer, and leukemia, Researchers still need to carry out more studies on animals and humans to confirm these properties. People may wish to see a doctor before adding grapefruit to their diet, as it can interact with certain medications.

Read more about grapefruit benefits. How to eat grapefruit Try adding grapefruit slices to a fruit salad, or squeeze the juice into water to make a drink. Otherwise, people can buy pure grapefruit juice from the supermarket. Like other berries, blackberries contain health-boosting anthocyanins.

31 calories6.92 g carbohydrate3.8 g fiber21 mg calcium14 mg magnesium117 mg potassium15.1 mg vitamin C

Read more about blackberries here. How to eat blackberries People can eat blackberries fresh, add them to yogurt for breakfast or dessert, or add frozen blackberries to smoothies. Apples make a quick and easy addition to the diet. Eat them with the skin on for the greatest health benefits.

95 calories25.13 g of carbohydrate4.4 g of fiber195 mg of potassium11 mg calcium8.4 mg vitamin C

Research has shown that there is a link between eating apples regularly and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. Apples also have high levels of quercetin, a flavonoid which may have anti-cancer properties. One study found that people who ate whole apples were 30 percent less likely to be obese than those who did not.

This can lower the risk for diabetes and heart disease. Read more about apples. How to eat apples Raw apples make a great snack and combining them with almond butter helps balance protein and fat intake. People can also add raw or stewed apples to yogurt, or use applesauce in cooking. Many people consider pomegranates to be a ‘superfood.’ They are high in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help to combat the oxidative stress that can cause disease in the body.

Eat pomegranates with the seeds to get the fiber benefits. One raw pomegranate contains :

234 calories52.73 g of carbohydrate11.3 g of fiber666 mg of potassium28 mg calcium28.8 mg vitamin C

One pomegranate also contains 46.2 micrograms (mcg) of the recommended 80 mcg daily allowance of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for strong bones and healthy blood cells. A review study about the health benefits of pomegranates suggests that they have anti-inflammatory effects and may help protect against brain-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,

This may be because pomegranates contain particularly high levels of polyphenols. Research discussed in this review also suggests that pomegranates may restrict the growth of human prostate cancer cells. Read more about the benefits of pomegranate juice. How to eat pomegranate Pomegranates can make a great addition to salads, or to couscous or rice dishes.

Pomegranates are sweet, so people can also add them to yogurt and fruit salads. Pineapple is an exotic fruit that may help reduce inflammation and promote healthy tissue growth. Pineapple contains an active compound called bromelain, which many people take as a dietary supplement because of its potential health benefits.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health state that bromelain can help with reducing nasal inflammation or sinusitis, However, scientists need to carry out more research into its benefits for osteoarthritis and its anticancer potential. Pineapples contain manganese, which the body uses to build bone and tissue.

A medium slice of pineapple also contains the following nutrients:

42 calories11.02 g carbohydrate1.2 g fiber92 mg potassium40.2 mg vitamin C11 mg calcium

Read more about the benefits of pineapple, the pineapple juice, and potential bromelain benefits, How to eat pineapple People can enjoy fresh pineapple by itself or in fruit salads. They can also use pineapple to make a tropical salsa or add it as a topping on fish tacos.

Try adding frozen pineapple to smoothies. Share on Pinterest Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps the body control heart rate and blood pressure. Bananas are well known for their high potassium content. A medium banana contains 422 mg of the adequate adult intake of 4,500 mg of potassium. Potassium helps the body control heart rate and blood pressure,

Bananas are also a good source of energy, with one banana containing 105 calories and 26.95 g of carbohydrate. The 3.1 g of fiber in a regular banana can also help with regular bowel movements and stomach issues, such as ulcers and colitis. A medium banana also contains the following nutrients:

1.29 g protein6 mg calcium32 mg magnesium10.3 mg vitamin C

Read more about bananas. How to eat bananas A banana is an excellent fruit to use to thicken a smoothie. People can also use them in baking as a natural sweetener or to make banana bread or pancakes. Many people refer to avocados as a superfood because of their healthful qualities.

Avocados are rich in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat which helps lower cholesterol levels. The American Heart Association say that maintaining healthy cholesterol levels with healthful fats could reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, Like bananas, avocados are rich in potassium. They also contain lutein, an antioxidant which is important for healthy eyes and skin.

Half an avocado contains the following nutrients:

161 calories2.01 g protein8.57 g carbohydrate6.7 g fiber12 mg calcium29 mg magnesium487 mg potassium10.1 mg vitamin C

Avocados also contain folate, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, Read more about avocados. How to eat avocado People can add avocado to salads, or mix with lime, garlic, and tomatoes to make guacamole. Add avocado to smoothies or hummus, or use avocado instead of other fats in baking.

Blueberries are another superfood that can provide many health benefits. Like strawberries, blueberries contain anthocyanin, which is a powerful antioxidant. Because of this, they might protect against heart disease, stroke, cancers, and other diseases. Blueberries also contain pterostilbene, a compound that may help prevent plaque from collecting in the arteries.

Half a cup of blueberries provides the following nutrients:

42 calories10.72 g carbohydrate1.8 g fiber4 mg calcium57 mg potassium7.2 mg vitamin C

Read more about blueberries. How to eat blueberries Fresh or frozen blueberries are a great addition to breakfast cereals, desserts, yogurt, or smoothies. Fruits come in all shapes and sizes, and different fruits have different health benefits. For the best results, add a variety of fruits to the diet.

Why is my pee pink after eating dragon fruit?

Dragon fruit is a food that grows on a climbing cactus called hylocereus, which you’ll find in tropical regions around the world. The plant’s name comes from the Greek word “hyle,” which means “woody,” and the Latin word “cereus,” which means “waxen.” On the outside, the fruit has the appearance of a hot pink or yellow bulb with spike-like green leaves shooting up like flames around it.

1. Cut it open, and you’ll find fleshy white stuff inside dotted with black seeds that are OK to eat.
2. This fruit comes in red- and yellow-skinned varieties.
3. The cactus originally grew in southern Mexico and South and Central America.
4. The French brought it to Southeast Asia in the early 19th century.
5. Central Americans call it “pitaya.” In Asia, it’s a “strawberry pear.” Today, you can buy dragon fruit throughout the U.S.

Dragon fruit is juicy with a slightly sweet taste that some describe as a cross between a kiwi, a pear, and a watermelon. The seeds have a nutty flavor. In one 6-ounce serving of dragon fruit cubes, you’ll get:

Calories: 102 Fat : 0 grams Protein : 2 gramsCarbohydrates: 22 gramsFiber: 5 gramsSugars: 13 grams

You’ll also get these vitamins and minerals :

Vitamin A : 100 international units (IU) Vitamin C : 4 milligrams Calcium : 31 milligramsIron: 0.1 milligram Magnesium : 68 milligrams

Dragon fruit has many potential health benefits, including:

It’s rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acid, and betacyanin. These natural substances protect your cells from damage by free radicals – molecules that can lead to diseases like cancer and premature aging.It’s naturally fat-free and high in fiber. It makes for a good snack because it can help keep you full for longer between meals.It may help lower your blood sugar, Researchers say this might be partly because it replaces damaged cells in your pancreas that make insulin, the hormone that helps your body break down sugar, But the studies were done on mice, not people. It’s unclear just how much dragon fruit you’d have to eat to get these benefits.It contains prebiotics, which are foods that feed the healthy bacteria called probiotics in your gut. Having more prebiotics in your system can improve the balance of good to bad bacteria in your intestines, Specifically, dragon fruit encourages the growth of the probiotics lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, In your gut, these and other helpful bacteria can kill disease-causing viruses and bacteria. They also help digest food.It can strengthen your immune system. Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are good for your immune system.It can boost your iron levels. Iron is important for moving oxygen through your body and giving you energy, and dragon fruit has iron. And the vitamin C in dragon fruit helps your body take in and use the iron.

Dragon fruit is generally safe to eat, although studies have reported isolated allergic reactions. Symptoms include swelling of the tongue, hives, and vomiting, This type of reaction seems to be very rare. If you eat enough red dragon fruit, it might turn your pee pink or red.

This symptom looks more alarming than it actually is. The same thing can happen if you eat a lot of beets. Your pee should turn back to its normal color once the fruit is out of your system. Before you buy dragon fruit, squeeze it gently. It should give a little bit without feeling too soft or mushy. Avoid fruit that has bruises or dry leaves – signs that it’s overripe.

If it feels hard when you press on it, let it ripen on the counter for a few days before eating. To prepare the fruit, cut it into quarters. Either peel away the skin or remove the flesh with a spoon, ice cream scoop, or melon baller. Don’t eat the skin.

• You can eat dragon fruit in a few ways.
• Toss it into a fruit salad along with other tropical fruits like pineapple and mango.
• Cut it into a salsa.
• Churn it into ice cream.
• Squeeze it into juice or water,
• Use it as a topping for Greek yogurt.
• Or freeze it and blend it into a smoothie.
• Store any leftover dragon fruit in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Or freeze it for up to 3 months. Here are more ways to eat dragon fruit,

Why does my stomach hurt after eating dragon fruit?

Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock) Dragon fruit — the bright-skinned fruit that has a pulp dotted with black seeds — has become extremely popular with fitness enthusiasts. The exotic fruit, also called cactus fruit, dragon pearl fruit, and pitaya, is enjoyed for its unique look and taste.

Recently, Chef Kunal Kapoor also took to Instagram to share about this tropical fruit, writing: “Though people primarily enjoy it for its unique look and taste, evidence suggests it may provide health benefits as well. Here I have shared some health benefits and how to cut it.” How to cut it? The chef demonstrated how to cut the fruit.

*Place the dragon fruit on a cutting board. *Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the fruit in half, lengthwise. *Start at the top and come down into the thicker stem, Or cut the fruit in half, lengthwise, and use your fingers to peel the skin away from the fruit as chef Kunal does.

*You can eat the pulp straight from the halve using a spoon, or cut it into pieces. Why should you have it? Sonia Bakshi, nutritionist and founder, DtF Studio told indianexpress.com that since dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the cells from damage by free radicals that can lead to diseases like cancer and premature ageing.

She went on to list some more benefits. *It’s naturally fat-free and high in fibre, It makes for a good snack because it can help keep you fuller for longer between meals. *It helps in lowering your blood sugar. *It contains prebiotics, which are foods that feed the healthy bacteria called probiotics in your gut.

1. Having more prebiotics in your system can improve the balance of good to bad bacteria in your intestines.
2. It can strengthen your immune system.
3. Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are good for your immune system.
4. It can boost your iron levels, too.
5. When is the best time to have it? While morning is considered to be the best time to consume fruits as the digestive system breaks down the fruit sugar quickly and provides it with all the nutrients, the dragon fruit can be had as a mid meal or in the night, too.

In fact, when had at night, it helps induce better sleep, Bakshi noted. It is prudent to consume fruits as a snack (Photo: Getty/Thinkstock) How to have it? Bakshi said that dragon fruit can be eaten in a few ways. *Add it to your fruit salad along with other tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. *Churn it into ice cream.

Squeeze it into juice or water to make for flavoured water. *Use it as a topping for Greek yoghurt, *Freeze it and blend it into a smoothie. How much is too much? According to Bakshi, one should be cautious of having too much as “dragon fruit has been linked to bloating and diarrhoea”. “Consuming it more than what your digestive system permits might lead to stomach upset due to its fibre, sugar, and prebiotic content,” Bakshi said.

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Why is my poop red after eating dragon fruit?

Stools are a normal part of the digestive process, and it consists of waste products that are being removed from the body. On some days, you may notice a change in the colour or texture of your stools. But what does this mean? Different coloured stools can mean many different things, mostly affected by what you have eaten.

These variations are usually harmless and considered normal. After all, we don’t eat the same thing every day. But sometimes, a change in colour can be a sign of a health issue. In rare cases, it could also mean a serious issue with your digestive system. Read on to find out what the colour of your stools may be revealing about your digestive health! Brown The natural colour of stool is brown, due to a substance called bilirubin which is present in bile.

As bile passes through the intestines and gets broken down by enzymes, the colour changes from a light yellow-brown to dark brown colour. If your stools are any shade of light to dark brown, you have no reason to worry! Green If you are having green stools, think about what you ate recently.

Eating excessive amounts of green foods such as leafy vegetables or green food colouring can result in green stools. (Interestingly, some purple food colourings cause green stools too!) Green stools from food pigments are not usually a cause for worry. However, having loose, green stools could mean that food may be moving through the large intestine too quickly, giving greenish bile insufficient time to be broken down.

If this happens chronically, it may lead to malabsorption and malnutrition. It could also indicate an underlying problem in the intestine. Yellow Yellow stools are normal for many people, especially for babies. But if the yellow or pale stools are accompanied with a bad smell, look greasy, and they float on water, it could be a sign that the stools contain too much fat.

• This may be the result of diseases of the pancreas that reduce delivery of fat-digesting enzymes to the intestines.
• Some pancreatic disorders that lead to yellow stools include pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and cystic fibrosis.
• If the colour persists, visit a doctor to get it checked out.
• Bright red Bright red or maroon-coloured stools can be the result of consuming scarlet-coloured foods such as beetroot or dragon fruit.

But occasionally, it could be a sign of bleeding. This happens when blood gets mixed with or covers the stools as it passes through the large intestine or rectum. Some of the possible causes are haemorrhoids, colon polyps, or colon cancer, If you realise the red stools are probably not caused by your diet, visit a doctor immediately.

Black or tar-coloured Black stools can occur when you eat something very dark coloured or take a supplement that causes it. Foods and supplements that cause black stools include blueberries, black liquorice, or iron supplements. However, black stools can be a sign of a more serious problem. It could result from bleeding in the upper part of the digestive tract which can be caused by stomach ulcers, noncancerous tumours, or cancer.

It is best to get checked and talk to a doctor if you notice dark-coloured stools that are not caused by food. Pale or clay-coloured Whitish, pale, or clay-coloured stools could be a result of causes ranging from certain medications you have taken, to certain nutritional deficiencies.

If you’ve recently had a barium test, you may also pass out chalky looking stools. However, if the clay-coloured stools are accompanied by jaundice, a liver or bile problem is usually suspected, which could be bile duct obstruction, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis. Conclusion Often, day-to-day variations the appearance of your stools is normal and isn’t something to worry about.

Your diet plays an important part! However, if any changes persist without any known cause – like foods in your diet, then you shouldn’t hesitate to head down to your doctor for an examination.

Does dragon fruit clean your gut?

Does yellow dragon fruit clean your stomach? – Yellow dragon fruit isn’t a cleanse or a detox. It’s simply a fruit, and its effects on the bowels are a sign it’s “just doing its job as a fiber-filled fruit,” Largeman-Roth points out. That said, the fruit does help to move things along in your digestive tract, especially if you’re drinking fluids, Taub-Dix says.

Does dragon fruit keep you awake?

‘Low levels of magnesium may increase insomnia, so adding dragon fruit to the diet may help improve sleep,’ says Palinski-Wade.

Does dragon fruit clean your stomach?

My Blue Tea | Benefits of Butterfly Blue Pea Flower Benefits of Red Dragon Fruit

• The Dragon
• ​
• The dragon is an auspicious mystical creature in the Chinese culture and if there is a fruit named after it, we want to find out if it has some sort of amazing prowess.

Origins ​ The Red Dragon Fruit is also known as Pink Pitaya or Strawberry Pear. It is a tropical fruit that is bright red on the outside with green spiky leaves flaring up around it like flames and its flesh has an interesting texture that is sweet and peppered with black seeds.

Many may recognise the fruit but few know that it actually grows on a climbing cactus called hylocereus or some may know it with a much prettier name, the Honolulu Queen. This cactus has large, white flowers that open only at night, famously known as the ‘Lady of the Night’ or ‘Moonflowers’. ​ Native to southern Mexico and North America, it was the French who brought the fruit over to Southeast Asia in the early 19th century.

My Blue Tea’s Red Dragon Fruits are grown and harvested in farms that offer the best conditions, climate and best practices to bring you top quality superfoods.

1. ​
2. Power Boost
3. What makes the Red Dragon Fruit so powerful? Here is a teaser of just some of the numerous benefits the fruit offers:

• High in antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acid, betacyanin
• Naturally fat-free
• High in fibre
• Helps in digestion
• Contains prebiotics that feed the healthy probiotics in the gut
• Strengthen immune system
• Helps stabilise blood sugar
• Great for skin
• May boost iron levels
• High in magnesium
• Rich in phytonutrients which help prevent disease and keep the body working properly

​ Nutrition Information (one 6-ounce serving of the fruit):

• Calories – 102
• Fat – 0 grams
• Protein – 2 grams
• Carbohydrates – 22 grams
• Fiber – 5 grams
• Sugars – 13 grams
• Vitamin A – 100 IU
• Vitamin C – 4 milligrams
• Calcium – 31 milligrams
• Iron – 1 gram
• Magnesium – 68 milligrams

​ The Red Dragon Fruit Powder has gained a deserving seat with the rest of our superfood powders. Professional and amateur chefs, passionate foodies and health-conscious consumers around the world are falling in love with this superfood powder and its beautiful colour.

​ To spice things up, legend has it that fire-breathing dragons in the past ate dragon fruit which made them powerful. It was their source of vitamins and we are still enjoying the benefits of this amazing fruit now. To feel strong like a dragon, try My Blue Tea´s Pitaya Dragon Fruit Superfood Powder and mix it with your favourite yoghurts, smoothies, desserts and get creative with your baking experiments.

Its bright pink colour is cheerfully eye-catching and makes any dish stand out.

• 7 Reasons to Include Dragon Fruit in your Diet
• ​
• 1. Happy Heart

Dragon Fruit has betalains which help decrease bad cholesterol levels and push up the good ones. It has lots of monounsaturated fats which help to keep the heart healthy. It also has a lot of flavonoids, which are antioxidant pigments that are good for the heart.

The little black seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-9 fats which are beneficial for the heart.2. Fibre Rich It is a great way to detox the digestive system. Dragon Fruit has a high fibre content and helps clean out the system, keeping poor digestion and constipation at bay. In fact, the type of fibre it has can even help reduce risk of certain cancers, heart disease, manage Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

It also has prebiotics which function like fertilizer for the good bacteria in the gut.

1. ​
2. 3. Beautiful Skin
3. ​

Vitamin C in Dragon Fruit goes beyond boosting your immunity. It also drives collagen production which is what helps skin looking and feeling supple and young.

• ​
• 4. Keep Moving
• Some people call Dragon Fruit the ‘anti-inflammatory fruit’ as it helps fight arthritis and there is a good dose of magnesium in the fruit as well, which is essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones.
• ​
• 5. Iron Man

We need iron to help carry oxygen to all parts of the body and break down food into energy. It is what drives metabolism, growth and development. Dragon Fruit has lots of iron and the additional bonus is the high amount of Vitamin C in the fruit also helps enhance iron absorption.

​ 6. Stable Sugars As foodies we have a soft spot for sweet, heavy, rich things, so we want to really look after our blood sugar levels. Dragon Fruit can help maintain blood sugar levels and even fight diabetes. The fibre in the fruit can help regulate diabetes and suppress sugar spikes. ​ 7. Anti Cancer Dragon Fruit has antioxidants called hydroxycinnamates which help prevent cancer.

It also has lycopene (typically found in tomatoes) which is beneficial in protecting the body from chemical and natural toxins. Being rich in antioxidants means the Dragon Fruit is great for preventing cell damage and inflammation.

1. Ensuring Safe Consumption
2. Please refer to for further information.
3. Disclaimer:

The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects.

Does dragon fruit need to be peeled?

You can use various methods to prepare and eat dragon fruit, all of which will require you to remove the tropical fruit’s leathery outer skin. One easy option is to cut the fruit in half lengthwise (similar to how you might prepare a papaya) and scoop out the white flesh with a spoon or melon baller.

What are the benefits of dragon fruit skin?

A Beautiful Fruit Leads to Beautiful Skin – There are many ways dragon fruit can help promote glowing skin. Its high concentration of vitamin C makes it perfect for a topical application that helps brighten skin by boosting blood flow to the skin’s surface.

The vitamins in dragon fruit also help protect your skin from sun damage, since vitamin C and E help minimize the damage caused by harmful UV rays. Additionally, dragon fruit contains polysaccharides which have been shown to help tighten and firm the skin, which gives the skin a healthy, youthful appearance.

Curious about the skin benefits of dragon fruit? : Curious about the skin benefits of dragon fruit?

Do you eat the white part of dragon fruit?

White Flesh Dragon Fruit and How to eat them 1. What is White Flesh Dragon Fruit? fruit grown in South East Asian, Central and South America, Mexico, and Israel. It is also known as pitaya or the strawberry pear. It tastes sweet and crunchy. Though at first sight it may look a bit strange but cutting and preparing this delicious fruit is very easy.

It is a good and healthy fruit and can also be used in salad, drinks, and desserts. Dragon Fruit has 3 main species. The White Flesh Dragon Fruit has white flesh and pink skin. The Red Dragon Fruit has red flesh and pink skin. The last one has yellow skin and called Yellow Dragon Fruit. The most common Dragon Fruit you will find is the white flesh dragon fruit.

White flesh dragon fruit can be found any time in the year. The season peaks in summer and lasts into early autumn. To choose a delicious dragon fruit, look for the one that has bright, even-colored skin. Do not choose the one that has many blotches, it may be over-ripe. The fruit should be a bit soft but not too much. If it is firm, you may need to ripe it for a few days. Ripe can be stored a few days. To make it longer, place it in the refrigerator. Do not cut it until you want to eat it. After the cut, it can last for a day in the refrigerator.

• When the flesh begins to turn brown, it is time to toss it.
• White flesh dragon fruit is very easy to cut.
• Inside the flesh will have many tiny black seeds and they are edible, just like kiwi.
• Place the fruit on a cutting board or a clean surface Just like avocado, you can remove the flesh from the fruit very easy by using a spoon.

– Use the spoon the separate the flesh from the skin – Lift the flesh out of the skin – The skin is not edible but can be used for serving. You can slice the fruit any way you like. Just remember to check if the flesh still gets some skin or has any brown on it. You can even use a melon baller to make a cute fruit ball for the kids.6. Enjoying the White Flesh Dragon Fruit After slicing the fruit, you can return the flesh into the skin to serve.

Is it OK to eat dragon fruit at night?

Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock) Dragon fruit — the bright-skinned fruit that has a pulp dotted with black seeds — has become extremely popular with fitness enthusiasts. The exotic fruit, also called cactus fruit, dragon pearl fruit, and pitaya, is enjoyed for its unique look and taste.

• Recently, Chef Kunal Kapoor also took to Instagram to share about this tropical fruit, writing: “Though people primarily enjoy it for its unique look and taste, evidence suggests it may provide health benefits as well.
• Here I have shared some health benefits and how to cut it.” How to cut it? The chef demonstrated how to cut the fruit.

*Place the dragon fruit on a cutting board. *Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut the fruit in half, lengthwise. *Start at the top and come down into the thicker stem, Or cut the fruit in half, lengthwise, and use your fingers to peel the skin away from the fruit as chef Kunal does.

1. You can eat the pulp straight from the halve using a spoon, or cut it into pieces.
2. Why should you have it? Sonia Bakshi, nutritionist and founder, DtF Studio told indianexpress.com that since dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the cells from damage by free radicals that can lead to diseases like cancer and premature ageing.

She went on to list some more benefits. *It’s naturally fat-free and high in fibre, It makes for a good snack because it can help keep you fuller for longer between meals. *It helps in lowering your blood sugar. *It contains prebiotics, which are foods that feed the healthy bacteria called probiotics in your gut.

Having more prebiotics in your system can improve the balance of good to bad bacteria in your intestines. *It can strengthen your immune system. Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are good for your immune system. *It can boost your iron levels, too. When is the best time to have it? While morning is considered to be the best time to consume fruits as the digestive system breaks down the fruit sugar quickly and provides it with all the nutrients, the dragon fruit can be had as a mid meal or in the night, too.

In fact, when had at night, it helps induce better sleep, Bakshi noted. It is prudent to consume fruits as a snack (Photo: Getty/Thinkstock) How to have it? Bakshi said that dragon fruit can be eaten in a few ways. *Add it to your fruit salad along with other tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. *Churn it into ice cream.

1. Squeeze it into juice or water to make for flavoured water.
2. Use it as a topping for Greek yoghurt,
3. Freeze it and blend it into a smoothie.
4. How much is too much? According to Bakshi, one should be cautious of having too much as “dragon fruit has been linked to bloating and diarrhoea”.
5. Consuming it more than what your digestive system permits might lead to stomach upset due to its fibre, sugar, and prebiotic content,” Bakshi said.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!