Dragon fruit, also known as pitahaya or strawberry pear, is a tropical fruit known for its vibrant red skin and sweet, seed-speckled pulp. On the outside, it’s a pink oval with green scales (hence the dragon name). Inside, it has white flesh with tiny black seeds.

 

Its unique look and acclaimed super food powers have made it popular among foodies and the health-conscious. Luckily, you don’t have to live in the tropics to enjoy the many benefits of dragon fruit. In fact, you can find it fresh or frozen in supermarkets worldwide.

 

Here are 7 health benefits of dragon fruit that might surprise you.

 

1. Reduces Risk of Diabetes. 

 

  • This fruit contains high amounts of fiber that maintains blood sugar levels and avoids spikes among people suffering from diabetes. Regular consumption of this fruit can help balance blood sugar levels and prevent further medical consequences among diabetics. 

 

2. Reduces Risks of Cancer. 

 

  • This fruit contains anti-cancer properties that can reduce the risks of colon cancer. Its high vitamin C source is vital in boosting the immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent you from contracting chronic diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, etc. 

 

3. 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. 

 

4. Fights Aging Skin. 

 

  • Faster aging can be caused due to stress, pollution, and other factors such as poor diet, etc. However, it’s a rich source of antioxidants that can treat sunburn, dry skin, and acne. 
  • Its content of vitamin C can aid in brighter skin. You can prepare dragon fruit juice and drink it once daily for radiant skin. 

 

5. Boots Immune System. 

 

  • Dragon fruit works great for strengthening your immune system. Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are good for your immune system. 

 

6. Helps Control Appetite. 

 

  • 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. 

 

7. Good Source of Macrobiotics. 

 

  • 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. 
  • In your gut, these and other helpful bacteria can kill disease-causing viruses and bacteria. 

 

They also help digest food. Although studies have reported isolated allergic reactions, dragon fruit is generally safe to eat. If you eat enough red dragon fruit, it might turn your pee pink or red. This symptom looks more alarming than it actually is. Your pee should return to its normal color once the fruit is out of your system.