Yellow Dragon Fruit, the sweetest of all the dragon fruit varieties, has a bright yellow skin with smooth curved spines on the outside and a translucent white flesh on the inside with slightly larger but fewer edible seeds than the pink-skinned varieties.
When biting into the flesh of Yellow Dragon Fruit, you will get a rush of sweetness mixed with a floral juice. The fruit can be added to smoothies and smoothie bowls, made into sorbet or granita, or used for sauces, but there is no need to do anything other than just eat the fruit as-is. Peel off the inedible yellow skin and cut the dragon fruit into slices or spoon the fruit right out of the peel, as you might eat a melon.
Nutritional Value Of Yellow Dragon Fruit
Yellow dragon fruit is packed with key nutrients making it great for any healthy diet. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits these nutrients have to offer.
Macronutrients
- Carbohydrates: This fruit provides carbs, the main energy source for your body. The sugars naturally found in it give the energy needed for day-to-day tasks.
- Proteins: Though not protein-rich, it does contain some. Protein helps in body tissue growth, upkeep and repair.
- Fats: Being nearly fat-free, it’s a top choice for people keeping a close eye on their fat intake. This is vital to keep heart diseases at bay.
- Fibre: It’s rich in dietary fibre which aids digestion and supports gut health.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin C: This vitamin is present in large amounts. It strengthens your immune system, protects you from free radical damage, and aids in collagen output.
- Vitamin A: Found as beta-carotene, it aids eye health, boosts immune function and helps with cell growth.
- Iron: A crucial component for haemoglobin to work right. Iron helps move oxygen around the body.
- Calcium: Small amounts are found. Still, it plays a big role in keeping bones and teeth strong.
- Potassium: A key nutrient for maintaining fluid balance, proper muscle function, and blood pressure control.
Health Benefits of Yellow Dragon Fruit
With the impressive lineup of nutrients, it boasts, it’s not surprising that this fruit comes with a host of health benefits. Ready to go over them?
1. Provides Several Antioxidants
Did you know that the yellow dragon fruit is bursting with antioxidants? Here are some:
- Betalains: Found in the red variety’s pulp. They protect LDL cholesterol from damaging oxidation, reducing heart disease risk.
- Flavonoids: A group of antioxidants found in many fruits and veggies. They enhance brain health and lower heart disease risk.
- Phenolic acid: A type of antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It aids general health and fights chronic diseases.
2. Boosts Immune System
The high vitamin C content in yellow dragon fruit strengthens the immune system. It guards body cells against damage by free radicals and helps steer clear of ailments.
3. Fights Inflammation
Filled with anti-inflammatory elements like phenolic acids and flavonoids, this fruit could lessen body inflammation. Reduced inflammation lowers the risk of diseases like heart trouble, diabetes, and some types of cancer.
4. Improves Metabolism
- Fibre content: With its high dietary fibre levels, this fruit aids digestion and boosts metabolism.
- Prebiotic properties: The prebiotic fibre in the fruit fosters good bacteria growth in the gut. This promotes metabolic health.
- Gut health: Having a healthy gut is key for effective nutrition digestion and absorption. This helps boost overall metabolism.
5. Potential Laxative Effect
Rich in fibre, the fruit could act as a natural laxative to aid digestion and promote regular bowel movements. But too much could cause stomach discomfort.
