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Pitahaya or dragon fruit: all the properties, benefits and nutritional value

It is common to confuse pitahaya and pitaya. Both fruits are produced by native Central American cacti, but of different species, which are currently planted and consumed. in all tropical areas. The confusion is accentuated because, especially in English, both words are used interchangeably.

What are the differences between pitahaya and pitaya?

The best known is the pitahaya (Hylocereus) or dragon fruit, white pulp truffled with black seeds and characteristic green bumps on the shiny pink skin. A curiosity is that the large and beautiful shaped flowers of this cactus open only at night and have a very short life.

There are two main varieties of pitahaya or dragon fruit: yellow and red.

The red (triangular H.) is more attractive to the eye because of its red skin and large dragon scales; however, it is more fragile and delicate, especially when it comes to transporting and handling it. On the other hand, the pitahaya yellow (H. ocamposis), with a slightly less showy appearance, offers better commercial possibilities due to its flavor and because it is more resistant.

The pitaya skin, on the other hand, is covered in thorns. There are also two main varieties: the Selenicereus megalanthus, white pulp and yellow skin; and the Stenocereus thurberi, the Sweet red-fleshed pitaya and reddish skin.

Properties of dragon fruit or pitahaya

The flavor of the dragon fruit can be defined as sweet and with notes reminiscent of kiwi and pear.

Dragon fruit contains a high proportion of water, fiber, and significant amounts of various vitamins and minerals, most notably magnesium.

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Nutritional composition (100 g):

Calories: 60 Protein: 1.2 g Fat: 0 g Carbohydrates: 13 g Fiber: 3 g Vitamin C: 3% of the RDA Iron: 4% of the RDA Magnesium: 10% of the RDA

In addition to nutrients, dragon fruit is rich in antioxidant compounds, that protect cells from free radicals, which are linked to chronic disease and aging.

These are some of the main antioxidants contained in the pulp of the dragon fruit:

Betalains: Found primarily in the pulp of red dragon fruit, these deep red pigments have been shown to protect “bad” LDL cholesterol from oxidizing and becoming a problem. Hydroxycinnamates: this group of compounds has shown anticancer activity in test-tube and animal studies. Flavonoids: This large and diverse group of antioxidants is linked to better brain health and a reduced risk of heart and cardiovascular disease.

Dragon fruit health benefits

The prebiotic fiber of pitahaya favors the good state of the intestinal microbiota and helps control glucose and blood sugar levels. For this reason it is a fruit indicated in a diet to maintain weight or lose weight.

In one study, mice on a high-fat diet given an extract of the fruit gained less weight, their insulin resistance and inflammation were reduced. The benefits are essentially associated with the effect of fiber on the microbiota.

Iron and vitamin C combine to prevent anemia, and magnesium favors the good condition of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems.

Due to its richness in antioxidants, dragon fruit prevents inflammation and premature aging. In one study, rats with diabetes treated with an extract of the fruit had a 35% reduction in malondialdehyde, a marker of free radical damage. They also had less arterial stiffness, compared to the control group.

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A traditional constipation remedy It is made with half the pulp of a pitahaya and a similar amount of papaya. Both fruits are passed through the blender until a fine texture is achieved and taken on an empty stomach.

To lose weight It is recommended to take 2 pieces a day or take a large glass of the liquefied pulp a day along with half a glass of freshly made orange juice. Or you can add grapefruit and pieces of kiwi and pineapple.

Pitaya in the kitchen

Although it is an exotic fruit, currently it can be found dragon fruit from Andalusia or the Canary Islands.

Ripe fruits have a bright red and the skin gives a little when squeezed.

To eat it, cut the dragon fruit in half and With a spoon, remove the pulp and seeds. (which are small like those of a kiwi and are also eaten).

You can also peel the skin and cut the pulp into slices or cubes, which can be taken as is or add them to a yogurt or a salad.

Due to its exotic appearance, it fits very well as nutritious decoration in cocktails or even cakes.

To keep it at home, it is recommended to have it out of the fridge in a cool, dark and dry place.

Scientific references:

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