Pitaya

Pitaya

Other Names : Dragon Fruit, Red Pitahaya, Night blooming Cereus, Strawberry Pear, Belle of the Night, conderella plant, cierge-lezard, poire de chardon, distelbirn, echte stachelbirn, drachenfrucht, Pa-nani-o-ka, cato-barse, cardo-ananaz, pitahaya roja; flor de caliz, pitajava; junco, junco tapatio, pitahaya orejona, reina de la noche, tasajo, skogskaktus, röd pitahaya
A pitaya is the fruit of several cactus species. "Pitaya" usually refers to fruit of the genus Stenocereus, while "Pitahaya" or "Dragonfruit" always refers to fruit of the genus Hylocereus.

Special Precautions of Pitaya

• Consumption of dragon fruit should not be excessive as its seeds are equally rich in omega-6 fatty acids (mainly linoleic acids), which may upset the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory compounds in the body if present in excess.
• Note that eating red-fleshed dragon fruit may cause one’s urine and stool to take on a reddish hue. This temporary discoloration is temporary and will subside in a day or so.

The benefits of Pitaya are

A dragon fruit is one which has a scaly, red crust that encloses the sweet tasting white flesh containing black seeds. It is a native to the central and southern parts of America.

• Vitamin C Benefits : Dragon fruits are a rich source of vitamin C, containing 9 mg of vitamin C per 100 g of fruit. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends a daily amount of 90 mg for adult males and 75 mg for females. This nutrient acts as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and other tissues from free radical damage. Free radical attack may be involved in the genesis of cancers and may cause other health ailments. The high vitamin C content also promotes healing of cuts and bruises and boosts the immune system.
• Fiber Benefits : Due to its high fiber content, with almost 1 g of fiber per 100 g of fresh fruit, the dragon fruit can serve as a natural laxative to treat constipation. Dried fruit can contain up to 10 g or more of dietary fiber per 100 g. It may also help lower "bad" cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure and inflammation. According to DiabeticLifeDiet.com, the fiber in dragon fruit also helps control blood sugar levels by slowing the sugar's absorption and keeping levels low after a meal. The effect can last up to 90 minutes. It may also aid in weight loss. The fiber also act as a detoxifier to the body. Through detoxification, the body is able to get away with toxins that might cause cancer. Moreover, it is an effective antioxidant, given that it contains both vitamin C and beta carotene.
• B Vitamin Benefits : Dragon fruit contains vitamins B-1, B-2 and B-3. Vitamin B-1 is beneficial for energy production and carbohydrate metabolism, while vitamin B-2 improves appetite. The fruit's vitamin B-3 content reduces cholesterol and enhances skin appearance, keeping it moisturized and smooth.
• an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, minerals involved in bone mineralization. They help strengthen bones and teeth and form new tissues.
• The fruit is also said to help neutralize and excrete heavy-metal toxins.
• Dragon fruit may help maintain eye health as well.
• There are some reports that dragon fruit may combat gout and arthritis through its beta carotene content.
• Omega-3s. Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
• Antioxidants which helps neutralize the formation of cancer causing free radicals.