The Dragon Fruit, also known as Pitaya, has many beautiful names. This colorful fruit comes in purple, red, pink, orange, and other colors, with a unique shape and a flower that blooms only at night. Where can you find this magic? It turns out, even in Israel.
Although its origin is Vietnam, pitaya also grows here and is available to us right now during this season. Why should you include it in your diet? As a scientific advisor to the Plant Council, here are five reasons you won’t want to miss:
Vitamin C in a good amount
Vitamin C is essential for our immune system, especially during the changing seasons. It is also necessary for collagen production in the body – to prevent hair loss and reduce wrinkles.
Iron
Pitaya is rich in iron, which is necessary to prevent anemia. Since one of the richest sources of iron is meat and turkey, vegetarians are sometimes prone to anemia. Legumes, nuts, almonds, as well as iron-rich fruits and vegetables, are excellent alternative sources for the body. One pitaya contains almost as much iron as a chicken breast.
Magnesium
In these days, many of us experience a magnesium deficiency in our diet, which is felt through muscle cramps at night or after physical activity... It’s good to know that pitaya contains a good amount of magnesium. Although one fruit does not cover the daily requirement for an adult, it certainly improves daily intake.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a very powerful antioxidant that is effective in preventing many diseases. The studies where it has been highlighted emphasized lycopene’s effectiveness against the development or worsening of cataracts in older age, as well as reducing the risk of cancer, especially prostate cancer in men.
Low Glycemic Index
Although pitaya contains about 12% sugar, its glycemic index is low, meaning that the rate of sugar absorption after eating it is slow. Therefore, it is also suitable for those suffering from borderline diabetes. Studies in this field have shown that the fruit is effective in balancing blood sugar levels, even without pairing it with nuts/almonds to reduce the glycemic index.