Fresh Dragon Fruits

About

Dragon fruit, also known as pitahaya or strawberry pear, is a tropical fruit known for its vibrant red skin and sweet, seed-speckled pulp.

Its unique look and acclaimed superfood 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.

Benefits

Here’s a rundown of the main nutrients in a one-cup serving (227 grams):

• Calories: 136
• Protein: 3 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 29 grams
• Fiber: 7 grams
• Iron: 8% of the RDI
• Magnesium: 18% of the RDI
• Vitamin C: 9% of the RDI
• Vitamin E: 4% of the RDI

Dragon fruit is low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids and betacyanins.

Dragon fruit contains the antioxidants vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene and betalain. Studies have linked diets high in antioxidants to a reduced risk of chronic disease.

Dragon fruit offers 7 grams of fiber per serving, making it an excellent choice for meeting your daily fiber needs.

Dragon fruit may promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is associated with a healthy gastrointestinal tract.

Dragon fruit’s high supply of vitamin C and carotenoids may offer immune-boosting properties.

Dragon fruit supplies iron along with vitamin C, a combination that may improve your body’s absorption of this important mineral.