A tropical fruit, priced around $3.75, is gaining traction for its potential health benefits. Known for its vibrant pink or yellow skin with green scales, the fruit's internal bright white or pink flesh with black seeds is noted for its nutrient profile.
Harvard Health highlights that dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and selenium, which may help mitigate inflammation. Diets high in antioxidant-rich produce are associated with a decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. A 3.5-ounce serving of dragon fruit contains approximately 82 calories, 14mg of magnesium, 206g of potassium, and 2g of fiber. Dr. Teresa Fung from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health emphasizes its role of diversifying fruit intake, stating: "If that gets people to eat more fruit, I say go for it!"
Dr. Fung also recommends frozen dragon fruit for convenience, noting, "Frozen dragon fruit is harvested right at its peak and frozen immediately. Not to mention that it's all cleaned and peeled so that work has been done for us."
Native to southern Mexico and Central America, dragon fruit is now cultivated globally. Joyce Prescott, a dietician at Cleveland Clinic, mentions its fiber content, which supports gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health. She adds: "Fibre is also filling, which is helpful if you're trying to lose weight."
The fruit also acts as a prebiotic, promoting probiotic growth, as Prescott explains. This may enhance digestion and lower colon cancer risk. Dragon fruit can be consumed alone or added to salads, smoothies, desserts, or cocktails.
Source: SurreyLive