FRUTRITION | Soul Fruit

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What is Dragon Fruit?

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Named after a mythical beast - with its distinctive pink skin and pointy green leaves resembling scales - Dragon fruit is the only fruit in the world that grows from the flowers of a cactus.

Also known as pitaya or strawberry pear, Dragon fruit originates from South America. However, due to its numerous health benefits and striking appearance, it has now become a staple across South East Asia - with Vietnam being the world’s largest producer.

Beneath its dragon exterior, lies delicately sweet juicy red or white flesh. Similar in taste to a mixture of kiwi, pear and watermelon it is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, protein & fibre. The tiny edible seeds throughout the flesh are packed with Omega 3, 6 & polyunsaturated fats – giving this super fruit its unique taste and nutritional benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS

IMMUNE BOOSTING

High levels of flu-fighting Vitamin C, Carotenoids and Flavonoids increases the bodies natural immunity. Whist minerals such as Phosphorus, Iron & Calcium help keep our immune system operating smoothy.

HAPPY GUT

Dragon Fruit not only contains Fibre, which aids digestion, but contains a prebiotic which stimulates growth of; Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria - two important probiotics in the gut

HEALTHY HEART

Dragon Fruit has the ability to lower bad cholesterol levels whist replenishing levels of good cholesterol. The small seeds also contain Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids which can reduce triglyceride levels - improving heart health.

STRONG BONES

Phosphorus, Magnesium and Calcium, found in Dragon Fruit, are all essential minerals for maintaining healthy bones and reducing the risk of Osteoporosis

LOWERS BLOOD SUGAR

The Carotenoids present in Dragon Fruit aid in lowering blood sugar levels. The combination of Fibre & Protein also helps the body absorb nutrients, stabilising blood sugar levels and avoiding spikes

HELPS PREVENT CANCER

Dragon Fruit contains several Carotenoids such as Lycopene & Carotene, which along side Vitamin C, have been shown to have anti-carcinogenic properties.

PROTECTS ORGANS

Eating Dragon Fruit can have anti-inflammatory properties whist increasing white blood cell count. This helps fight against fungal and bacterial infections, as well as speeding up cell regeneration.

BOOSTS COGNITION

Vitamins B & C, and many other essential minerals present in Dragon Fruit, improve nerve & brain function as well as improving memory and reducing risk of cognitive disorders.

YOUTHFUL GLOW

Free radicals are one of the major reasons for ageing skin. Dragon fruit’s high antioxidant content neutralises these free radicals, naturally slowing the ageing process - reducing lines and wrinkles.

IMPROVES RESPIRATION

High Vitamin C content in the flesh, coupled with Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids found in the seeds, has been shown to strengthen the respiratory system. Helping treat lung diseases such as asthma.