What is Dragon Fruit?
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or the strawberry pear, is a vibrant pink or yellow tropical fruit covered in scales that resemble a dragon. The inside consists of sweet, seed-speckled white flesh and black edible seeds. Dragon fruit is native to southern Mexico, Central America, and South America but is now grown commercially in several tropical locations across the world.
Appearance and Flavor
This exotic fruit is around 5-6 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. Its scaly pink or yellow skin hides white flesh similar in texture to a kiwi or pear. Dragon fruit can be mild and sweet like a kiwi or slightly tangy with just a hint of sweetness. The small black seeds provide a nice crunch when you bite into the flesh.
Nutrition Facts
Dragon fruit is low in calories but packed with nutrients like vitamin C, calcium, iron, and antioxidants. One cup of dragon fruit contains:
- 136 calories
- 8 grams fiber
- 24 grams carbohydrates
- 5 grams protein
- 61% daily value for vitamin C
- 10% daily value for iron
- 3% daily value for calcium
Health Benefits
Regularly eating this tropical fruit with black seeds provides many potential health benefits:
May Aid Weight Loss
Dragon fruit is high in fiber and low in calories, making it a great snack for weight loss. The fiber helps you feel fuller for longer to curb overeating.
May Prevent Chronic Disease
Antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and carotene found in dragon fruit may help lower inflammation and oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes.
May Boost Immunity
With 61% of your daily vitamin C needs per cup, dragon fruit can help boost your immune system to fight off illness and infection.
May Support Gut Health
Prebiotics in dragon fruit feed healthy gut bacteria, which improves digestion and gut health overall. The skin is high in fiber too to promote regularity.
How to Eat Dragon Fruit
Here are some tips for cutting open and enjoying this exotic superfruit:
1. Slice It in Half
First, cut the dragon fruit lengthwise down the middle using a sharp knife. Try to slice evenly to reveal the flesh inside.
2. Scoop Out the Flesh
Use a spoon to gently scoop the flesh with the black seeds out of the skin. You can also slice the halves into smaller pieces to make it easier to scoop or eat.
3. Eat as Is or Add to Recipes
Enjoy dragon fruit halves or slices raw as a healthy snack. You can also blend it into smoothies, top yogurt or oatmeal, make dragon fruit sorbet, or add it to salads or desserts.
Potential Side Effects
Dragon fruit is generally safe to eat with minimal risk of side effects. However, some people may experience:
- Allergic reaction with swelling, rash, or trouble breathing (rare)
- Diarrhea or upset stomach if eating high amounts
- Spike and crash in blood sugar for diabetics since it's high in carbs
- Interactions with blood thinners like warfarin or Plavix
Where to Buy Dragon Fruit
In the U.S. you can usually find fresh dragon fruit at major grocery stores like Whole Foods and Kroger. Dragon fruit can also be purchased freeze-dried, as juice, jam, or in other products at natural food stores.
When buying fresh, look for dragon fruits that feel firm with bright, evenly colored skin. Ripe dragon fruit can be kept at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated inside a plastic bag for around one week.
The Takeaway
With its unique look and sweet flavor, dragon fruit delivers a variety of seeds and powerful nutrients like vitamin C, iron, and prebiotics. Adding this antioxidant-rich superfruit to your diet can help with weight loss, gut health, immunity, and more while satisfying your sweet tooth.
FAQs
What does dragon fruit taste like?
Dragon fruit has a mild, sweet taste similar to a kiwi or pear. The texture is like a soft watermelon crossed with a apple, with tiny black seeds that provide a nice crunch.
Can you eat dragon fruit skin?
Yes, the skin and flesh of dragon fruit are entirely edible. The skin is high in fiber and nutrients so don't peel it off. The scales may look intimidating but they are harmless and soften once the fruit is sliced open.
When is dragon fruit in season?
Peak season for fresh dragon fruit is typically July through October. But thanks to imports, you can usually find fresh dragon fruit in stores year-round. Check for firm, evenly colored dragon fruit without brown spots or wrinkles on the skin.
Can you grow dragon fruit at home?
It is possible to grow dragon fruit yourself at home indoors or outdoors if you live in a tropical or subtropical climate zone 10-11. Provide plenty of sunlight and grow them on a trellis or post where the vines can climb up to 30 feet.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment