7 Benefits of dragon fruit that you do not know & bull; hello healthy

Dragon fruit or pitaya is a fruit that only grows in tropical and subtropical areas such as South America and Asia. As the name suggests, the skin of this dragon fruit resembles the scales of a dragon which is a mythical animal. This plant is considered a cactus plant that is full of nutrients. This unique fruit contains about 60 calories, each of which is rich in vitamins C, B1, B2, and B3, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium and phosphorus. And that's not all. It is very clear that dragon fruit is the best fruit that we can easily get in Indonesia.

Various benefits of dragon fruit for health

1. Anti-aging

Antioxidants are essential for keeping skin firm and elastic. These substances can fight free radicals in the body that can cause problems such as cancer. And dragon fruit is a good source of antioxidants because of its high vitamin C content. The most important nutrient in this fruit is its phosphorus. The body's cells require phosphorus and phospholipids which are the main components of cell membranes. This can help to prevent premature aging.

2. Cancer prevention

Apart from vitamin C, dragon fruit contains carotene, which is linked to several anti-carcinogenic qualities, including reducing the number of tumors. In addition, lycopene which is responsible for the red color of pitaya has been shown to be associated with lowering the risk of prostate cancer. A 2011 study published in the Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention found that a lycopene intake of less than 2,498 mcg / day can increase the risk of prostate cancer, whereas a high intake of fruit, vegetables, and foods rich in lycopene, as well as physical activity can reduce risk significantly. significant.

In addition, dragon fruit skin contains polyphenols that we often find in nature. It is possible that some of these polyphenols act as affinities for estrogen receptors, and alter the behavior of other hormones to receptor sites in cells. That could be one reason why pitaya can protect the body against certain types of cancer.

3. Heart health

Dragon fruit can help improve your heart health, because it can reduce bad cholesterol while increasing good cholesterol. A 2010 study published in the journal Pharmacognosy Research found that consumption of pitaya fruit can reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. This exotic fruit is also a great source of monounsaturated fat which can keep our liver in good condition.

4. Prevent diabetes

The high amount of fiber in this exotic fruit can help stabilize a person's blood sugar levels. It can also help to block the sugar spikes that occur after eating foods with a high glycemic index. In the same study from the journal Pharmacognosy Research, researchers found that dragon fruit had a good effect on oxidative stress for aortic stiffness of diabetic rats.

5. Immune booster

High levels of vitamin C can provide a boost to the immune system, as well as stimulate the activity of other antioxidants. The presence of high levels of vitamin C, minerals, and phytoalbumin can fight free radicals. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, as well as calcium, phosphorus, iron, protein, niacin and fiber also contribute to improving the function of your immune system.

6. Reliever cough and asthma

Respiratory disorders such as asthma and coughs caused by colds or flu can be difficult to deal with on a day-to-day basis. Although it is not a substitute for medicine, dragon fruit can help reduce your suffering. Keep in mind that this pitaya has a high amount of vitamin C, thus making your immune system stronger and more efficient at fighting infections every day.

7. Weight loss

One of the worst issues you will likely experience is holding back on the foods you enjoy when you are on a weight loss diet. Fortunately, with the help of this exotic fruit you will get your appetite under control. How did it happen? This is because dragon fruit is rich in fiber and very low in calories, so you will feel full longer, compared to other fruits. It will also improve metabolism and weight management.