My Personal Journey
It all started this summer when I was looking for a list of foods that lowered inflammation.
In my never-ending quest to lower my inflammation levels, I ran across a fruit that I had seen, but ignored in the grocery stores. I took a chance on dragon fruit, and I am so glad I did. Known for its pretty color and tropical flair, dragon fruit is the one fruit that should not be ignored for its many benefits. After learning about its properties, I am excited to share what it did for me in order to help the lives of others.
Ever since discovering this fruit, I have been incorporating it into my diet almost every day for the past few months. It has been an experiment to see how my body reacts to it and if it lives up to the claims that others around me have given it. (Spoiler Alert: It does and more!) Not only have I found a new fruit to try, but it is easily in the top 5 fruits that are beneficial to my well-being. Let’s explore the benefits and how it can be used.
What Are the Different Types of Dragon Fruit?
So far, I have only had a chance to sample the most common yellow and white fleshed varieties. From those, I prefer the pink exterior and white fleshed dragon fruit! They are subtly sweet, and taste like a cross between a pear and a kiwi with a refreshing crunch. I mean that in the best possible way. If you’re a fan of subtle sweetness, this fruit will easily become one of your favorites. They pair perfectly in smoothies with pineapples, mango, and even a bit of tart cherry juice.
Besides the two that I have mentioned, there are over 20 varieties to choose from. With the change in season, I plan to stock up on the frozen varieties to enjoy the fruit long term.
Benefits of Dragon Fruit
It is an Immunity Superstar
Everyone knows that vitamin C helps prevent the common cold, but did you know it is also great for your complexion? This vitamin is something that I try to load up on naturally in other foods as well. Rather than taking a pill during low immunity, I stock up on foods high in vitamin C like dragon fruit year-round. That way I can stay in top shape to decrease the risk of getting colds.
It is High in Magnesium
Magnesium helps to lower blood pressure, prevent migraines, and fight depression. It aids in over 300 functions in the human body, including regulating heart beats. Although a portion can come from leafy greens, every bit of nutrition helps and when it comes from a delicious fruit, it is even better.
It Boosts Iron Levels
Ever since being diagnosed with iron deficiency as a teen, I have been incorporating foods high in iron and taking an iron supplement. Iron creates an environment for your body that is able to transport and build red blood cells. It is one of the most important nutrients that many people seem to be deficient in.
Glossier Hair and Healthier Skin
As someone with dry skin, I have noticed a change in the quality of my skin after incorporating this fruit into my diet. The antioxidants in the fruit promote beauty from the inside-out and detoxify the skin from impurities. I have noticed that I also get less blemishes when I eat this fruit often.
Try an Amazing Dragon Fruit Smoothie Recipe here.
Train Harder for Longer
This fruit adds variety to the pre-workout smoothies that I already have in my arsenal. On days where I don’t feel like making a smoothie, eating the dragon fruit by itself works just as well. I have found that it has given me a great boost to power through workouts and light taste is great on my stomach early in the morning.
Besides the other benefits I have mentioned, I have noticed that implementing more anti-inflammatory fruits into my diet has been a transformative experience. It is wonderful to feel great from the inside and out. I look forward to trying out other anti-inflammatory foods in the fall.
As the cold season comes in for most, eating more foods like this is one of the keys to staying healthy. With this newfound knowledge, I hope that you received a gift to living a happier, healthier life. With my new discovery, I know that I have!
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Photo: Pexels
