Dragon fruit The “super food

Fruit for immunity

- ‹ Dr.Venkatraman Hegde and Dr. Nandhini V. Mohan

Dragon fruit also known as pitahaya or strawberry pear, is a tropical fruit known for its vibrant red skin and is juicy with a slightly sweet taste, seed-speckled pulp.. some describe this fruit as a cross between a kiwi, a pear, and a watermelon. The seeds have a nutty flavor. Its unique look and acclaimed super food powers have made it popular among foodies and the health conscious.

High in nutrients:

Dragon fruit is low in calories but packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It also contains a substantial amount of dietary fibre.

Calories-136

Protein-3gms

Fat-0

Carbohydrates-29gms

Fiber-7gms

Iron-8%

Mg-18%

Vitamin C-9%

Vitamin-E-4%

Beyond essential nutrients, dragon fruit supplies beneficial plant compounds like polyphenols, carotenoids and betacyanins. 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 may help lower your blood sugar. It may be helpful in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.