Ever heard of the dragon fruit? Dragon fruit or pitaya is a tropical fruit that has huge amounts of health benefits to offer. Depending on its species, it can be sweet or sour. It is usually smaller than a cantaloupe, red in color and covered with spiky structures. This fruit is a great source of vitamin C , phosphorus and also of the much needed fatty acids.
Here are the six benefits of the tropical super food:
1) Anti-aging
Apart from fighting free radicals and warding off diseases, antioxidants help in keeping the skin tight and firm. This fruit is a great source of antioxidants because of the vitamin C in it.
Dragon fruit also has a phosphorus punch that is essential in regulating key cell processes. Phosphorus is said to prevent premature aging. Great news for all the ladies!
2) Prevents cancer
Dragon fruit also contains carotene and has anti-carcinogenic qualities that reduce tumours. The fruit also has lyocpene which is responsible for the red colour of the fruit. It is said to lower the risk of prostate cancer. Generally consuming lycopene rich foods is good for your health. The peel of dragon fruit has polyphenols that are helpful in protecting against some forms of cancer.
3) Cardiovascular health
Dragon fruit is said to boost heart health as it helps in decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol and improving the levels of the good one. According to study, consumption of dragon fruit lowers the risk of developing a heart disease and a high blood pressure. The fruit is rich in monosaturated fats that keep the heart healthy.
4) Diabetes
This exotic fruit has a lot of fiber that helps in stabilizing the blood sugar levels of a person. It is helpful in inhibiting the sugar spikes that occur past consumption of foods with a high GI. Regular consumption of this fruit is beneficial in preventing the issues associated with diabetes.
5) Digestion
Dragon fruit has a lot of fiber in it. This directly means that it can improve the bowel movements of the body. Consumption of this exotic fruit is said to be helpful in reducing the chances of issues like irritable bowel syndrome and constipation.
6) Boosts immunity
High levels of vitamin C present in dragon fruit can boost the body’s immune system along with stimulating the functioning of other antioxidants. The presence of high amounts of vitamin C and minerals have antioxidant properties and fight free radicals. The vitamins and minerals namely vitamin B1, B2,B3, phosphorus, iron, protein and fiber improve the functioning of the immune system.