Dragon fruit comes from a plant that can provide four to six fruiting cycles a year but is capable of bearing fruit for 20 to 30 years.

Dragon fruit is native to Central America but is also grown and exported from several Southeast Asian countries, like Thailand. Taken from several cactus species, its luscious stem provides a uniquely delicious fruit. The flavor is slightly sweet, like a blend of kiwi and apple with crunchy texture. If you’ve never seen it before, it of course may seem a little strange.

I first came across this exotic fruit while watching the television show Chopped on the Food Network. While walking through Whole Foods Market, I saw it and of course had to try it. The one thing I like to do before eating anything lately, is checking out the benefits. Why should I be putting this in my body? How will it benefit me? I find doing that makes me turn to fewer junkie, unbeneficial foods. If I can’t find any benefits than I have no business consuming it.

Based on my research, the benefits of Dragon Fruit also known, as pitaya are endless. A bite of this wildly nutritious tropical superfood can deliver a wealth of benefits for the human body. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, polyunsaturated (good) fatty acids, and several B vitamins for carbohydrate metabolism, as well as carotene and protein. Calcium is present for strong bones and teeth, iron and phosphorus for healthy blood and tissue formation. Dragon fruits have zero complex carbohydrates, so foods can be more easily broken down in the body, helped by vitamin B1. The seeds of dragon fruits are high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that help lower the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Eating dragon fruit can help the body maintain such normal function as getting rid of  toxic heavy metals. Be sure to scoop out the flesh, or quarter it and peel back the leathery skin eating only the white part with seeds and removing any and all residual pink parts, which are bitter. Also, you must only eat dragon fruit in moderation because it is high in fructose, which may be harmful to your health in excessive amounts. Too much of anything good, is bad!

Reasons you should add this exotic fruit into your life:

Treats Acne

Improves Vision

Promotes Skin Health

Provides Essential Moisture To Dry Skin

Promotes Healthy Hair

Lowers Cholesterol

Helps With Stomach Ailments

Lowers Blood Sugar

Improves Cardiovascular Health

Cuts Low Hemoglobin Risk

Helps In Weight Management

Prevents Cancer

Prevents Congenital Glaucoma

Boosts Immunity

Helps Suppress Arthritis Pain

Is Good During Pregnancy

Prevents Renal Bone Disease

Stronger Teeth And Bones

Repairs Body Cells

Improves Appetite

Boosts Brain Function

Cures Respiratory Disorder