Trying out something new could be scary sometimes. And when it has to do with what goes into the mouth, everyone wants to be careful. Most people would prefer to get a testimony before trying it out.
And this has always been the case with dragon fruit. If you’ve ever seen it, I bet you’d want to know what it tastes like. This tropical fruit has left many in curiosity. Not just with its uncommon name, but with its weird appearance as well.
While some have said, it has an incredible taste. Many others do not agree with this school of thought.
So, what does dragon fruit taste like?
What Dragon Fruit Taste Like
Dragon fruit has a light, slightly sweet flavor. It’s often compared with the taste of a pear and a watermelon. Also, it’s said to have the consistency of a kiwi.
However, it’s a lot tastier when ripe than in its unripe state. In its unripe state, it could taste like nothing. Its taste is usually bland and sour. Ripe dragon fruit, however, has a slightly sweet and syrupy taste. But, finding a ripe one is usually difficult.
One can’t tell how sweet dragon fruit tastes. The taste can differ based on individual preference. The truth is, what could taste amazing to someone, maybe awful to another.
Continue reading for more information on this topic.
What Is The Real Name Of Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, as it’s called, is the original name of the fruit. The name dragon fruit came from the Greek words ‘hyle’ and ‘cereus.’ Hype means woody. Cereus, on the other hand, means waxen. Some people believe that the fire-like flower on it is the reason for the name – dragon fruit.
However, it is called differently in some other countries. Central Americans call it ‘pitaya.’ In Asia, it is called ‘strawberry pear.’
Are There Different Types Of Dragon Fruit
Interestingly, this fruit comes in different varieties. There is the white, red and yellow type. All three have similar tastes and outward appearances. And this makes it difficult to identify by just looking at them. You have to cut it open to know which is which.
The white ones are most common to find. But, it has been proven to have the worst test. The red variety is said to have more flavour. However, it isn’t easy to find.
Can we talk about the yellow dragon fruit already? This type has the best testing of the other two. Yellow dragon fruit is found in Asia. But, you can find it in any Asian market around.
Best Ways To Enjoy Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is a very flexible type of fruit. The fruit is eaten in different ways. And this is what makes it very enjoyable. Anyone can be creative with this fruit and get an amazing result.
So, don’t limit yourself in any way. Try it out with different things to get the best out of the fruit. You can cut it in half and scoop with a spoon. Alternatively, you can cut it into cubes. These are practically the usual ways to eat this fruit.
However, a good way to enjoy this fruit is by blending it. Yes, you can blend it with some yoghurt and make good smoothies. You can also extract the juice and enjoy it with some ice cubes. If you love to be more creative, you can add it to your ice cream recipe.
It also has an amazing taste when mixed with honey. Also, it can be a great combination for your salad. I bet you’d want to try it out already.
Healthy Benefits Of Dragon Fruits
Natural foods are generally known for promoting health benefits. And dragon fruit is no exception. Now, you may not be a lover of this fruit. But, the fact is dragon fruit is incredibly good for your health.
The fruit has been related to the treatment of some diseases. And also, it is highly recommended by doctors. Let’s quickly look at some of its healthy benefits.
Rich in Vitamins:
The fruit is blessed with vitamins C, B1, B2, and B3. And its vitamin B3 content is known to lower cholesterol levels. Also, it has been proven to cure cough and asthma. It also helps to improve the heart.
Dragon fruit is also a good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C’s benefits are endless. Vitamin C nutrients help to boost immunity. Meaning, it helps to prevent infections. Vitamin C also protects the body against free radicals.
Also, Vitamin C is essential for absorbing iron. Some experts say Vitamin C is perfect for promoting healthy ageing. Also, it can prevent some types of cancers. And heart diseases as well.
High in Potassium and Calcium:
Potassium and calcium help to maintain water balance in the body. Studies have also shown that potassium is good for diabetic patients. It helps to protect their heart and kidney.
Beta-carotene:
Dragon fruit has been found to contain beta-carotene. And this is good for the eyes. Beta-carotene protects the eyes from harmful radicals. It has also been proven to maintain long-term eye health.
This nutrient also helps to prevent muscular degeneration. It also prevents cataract formation.
Low in Calories/High in Fiber:
Dragon fruit is naturally low in calories but high in dietary fiber. These two features are great for a healthy heart. And a good remedy for losing weight.
Regular intake of fruit can speed up your weight loss process. What the fiber does is keep you full for a longer period. Thereby helping you control your appetite. Dieting fiber also helps to prevent constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.
It Contains Prebiotics:
Prebiotics are carbohydrates your body can’t digest. No cause for alarm; they’re not harmful. They enable the growth of healthy bacteria in your body. They help you absorb calcium. Additionally, prebiotics also speeds the fermentation of food.
The presence of prebiotics in dragon fruit is good for your guts. It keeps the cells that line your gut healthy. It also plays an active role in fighting against colon cancer. Although, more studies are still being carried out to prove this. Finally, it helps to control and prevent obesity.
Good Source of Flavonoids:
Flavonoids are antioxidants pigments. They are very present in dragon fruit. They help the fight against certain cancers. They also promote a healthy heart.
Flavonoids play an active role in reducing arthritis pain. And also reduce the risk of developing disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Lastly, flavonoid keeps the brain healthy.
Is Dragon Fruit Good For The Skin And Hair
Dragon fruit is also beneficial for the skin. In ancient times, this fruit was used as a herbal treatment for the face. That, however, hasn’t changed in recent times.
Dragon fruit is found to be high in antioxidants and vitamins. And it helps to prevent skin damage. Studies also show that it could reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Studies say that it slows the ageing process. Thereby making you look younger. However, this is achieved by regularly applying the fruit to the face. To do this,
- Make a paste out of its flesh.
- Apply regularly to the face. And expect amazing results.
Dragon fruit is also the best remedy for acne and sunburn. You can achieve this by mixing dragon fruit with cucumber juice and honey.
Additionally, Dragon fruit also helps to maintain healthy hair. It improves hair texture. All you need to do is apply the juice directly to your scalp. It also helps to manage damages done to your hair by chemicals.
Is Dragon Fruit Healthy For Pregnant Women
One may be wondering if pregnant women can take dragon fruit. The simple answer to this question is – Yes! Practically anyone is free to eat this fruit. And pregnant women aren’t excluded.
Its high content in vitamin B and folate is beneficial for pregnancy. Like we stated earlier, the benefits of Vitamins are endless. Vitamins contribute greatly to pregnancy.
Therefore, dragon fruit is beneficial to both mother and child. Vitamin B helps to prevent congenital disability.
Some symptoms usually accompany pregnancy. These symptoms can be discomforting sometimes. Dragon fruit, however, helps to relieve some of these symptoms.
Also, dragon fruit contains calcium. Calcium helps the development of the fetus’ bone. So, it contributes to a healthy pregnancy.
Constipation is very common in pregnancy. And so, needs the mild laxative contained in the fruit. It has been found to reduce pregnancy constipation.
What Are The side Effects Of Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is very safe. They have no side effects. However, some people may experience allergies after eating the fruit. Nevertheless, this shouldn’t discourage you from trying out the fruit.
The following are the signs of allergies associated with dragon fruit;
- Swelling in the mouth, lips, or tongue.
- A tingling or itching sensation.
- Difficulty in breathing.
- Feeling like or throwing up.
- Discomfort in the digestive system.
There have been only two cases of allergies reported from the fruit. So, these allergies occur rarely. However, you should stop eating the fruit if you notice any allergies. You should also consider seeing a doctor if the allergies continue.
Conclusion
This fast-growing crop is found in tropical regions across the world. Originally, it grew in southern Mexico, South and Central America. However, it is commercially cultivated in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Historians say it came to southern Asia in the early 19th century.
Though history shows that dragon fruit is commonly found in Asia, it has surprisingly gained popularity across the world. And, it’s best known for its kiwi and pear-like taste. However, its taste can vary depending on its maturity (ripe or unripe).
Dragon fruit is a healthy and unique fruit. And it is proven to be a good combination of important nutrients. These nutrients are not only beneficial to organs in the body. It is also good for good skin and hair therapy. And have been recognized as remedies to some illnesses.
