10 Amazing Benefits Of Dragon Fruit Powder

Dragon fruit powder is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that offers a wide range of benefits. In this article, we will explore 10 amazing benefits of dragon fruit powder and how to enjoy them. Here are the benefits of incorporating dragon fruit powder into your diet:

Benefit #1. High in Nutrients

Dragon fruit powder is low in calories but high in nutrients. One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides (1):

Calories: 35
Protein: 0.5 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 8 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Iron: 4% of the Daily Value (DV)
Magnesium: 9% of the DV
Vitamin C: 6% of the DV
Vitamin E: 2% of the DV

Dragon fruit powder also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

Benefit #2. High in Antioxidants

Dragon fruit powder is rich in antioxidants, which are substances that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause inflammation and chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis (2).

Dragon fruit powder contains several types of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene and betalains. Betalains are the plant pigments that give dragon fruit its vibrant color, and they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic effects in test-tube and animal studies (3).

Studies have also linked diets high in antioxidants to a reduced risk of chronic diseases in humans (4).

Benefit #3. High in Fiber

Dragon fruit powder is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is a type of carbohydrate that your body cannot digest. Fiber has many benefits for your health, such as:

Improving your digestion and preventing constipation
Lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure levels
Regulating your blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes
Reducing your appetite and helping you lose weight
Supporting your gut health and immune system
Protecting you from colon cancer

One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides 2 grams of fiber, which is 8% of the DV (1). The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men (5).

Benefit #4. Supports Your Immune System

Dragon fruit powder can help boost your immune system and prevent infections. This is because it contains vitamin C, which is essential for the production and function of white blood cells, the main defenders of your body against pathogens (6).

Vitamin C also protects your red blood cells from oxidative damage, which can impair their ability to carry oxygen to your tissues (7).

One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides 6% of the DV for vitamin C (1). The recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 75 milligrams for women and 90 milligrams for men (8).

Benefit #5. Benefits Skin Health

Dragon fruit powder can also improve your skin health and appearance. This is because it contains vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your skin from sun damage, inflammation and aging (9).

Vitamin E also helps maintain your skin’s moisture and elasticity, which can prevent dryness and wrinkles (10).

One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides 2% of the DV for vitamin E (1). The recommended daily intake of vitamin E is 15 milligrams for adults (11).

Benefit #6. Enhances Your Iron Absorption

Dragon fruit powder can help you absorb more iron from your diet. Iron is a mineral that is vital for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in your blood. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which is a condition characterized by fatigue, weakness, pale skin and shortness of breath (12).

However, not all iron sources are equally absorbed by your body. There are two types of iron: heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron is found in animal products, such as meat, poultry and fish, and it is well absorbed by your body. Non-heme iron is found in plant products, such as grains, beans and nuts, and it is less well absorbed by your body (13).

One way to enhance your non-heme iron absorption is to consume it with vitamin C, which can increase its bioavailability by up to six times (14). Dragon fruit powder is a good source of vitamin C, and it can be added to your meals or snacks that contain non-heme iron sources, such as oatmeal, cereal, bread, rice, beans and lentils.

Benefit #7. Provides Prebiotic Fibers

Dragon fruit powder can also provide prebiotic fibers, which are a type of fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These bacteria, also known as probiotics, play a key role in your digestive health, immune system, metabolism and mood (15).

Prebiotic fibers can help increase the number and diversity of probiotics in your gut, which can improve your digestion, prevent infections, lower inflammation and enhance your overall health (16).

Dragon fruit powder contains oligosaccharides, which are a type of prebiotic fiber that have been shown to stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, two of the most common and beneficial probiotics in your gut (17).

Benefit #8. Promotes Wound Healing

Dragon fruit powder can also promote wound healing and prevent infections. This is because it contains phenolic compounds, which are a type of antioxidant that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (18).

Phenolic compounds can help reduce the swelling, pain and redness of wounds, as well as prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections (19).

Dragon fruit powder also contains vitamin C, which is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that forms the structure of your skin and other tissues. Collagen helps repair damaged tissues and speed up wound healing (20).

Benefit #9. Supports Your Bone Health

Dragon fruit powder can also support your bone health and prevent osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes your bones to become weak and brittle, increasing your risk of fractures and injuries (21).

Dragon fruit powder contains magnesium, which is a mineral that is involved in bone formation and maintenance. Magnesium helps regulate the balance of calcium and phosphorus in your bones, which are the main minerals that make up your bone tissue (22).

Magnesium also helps activate vitamin D, which is a hormone that regulates calcium absorption and bone metabolism (23).

One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides 9% of the DV for magnesium (1). The recommended daily intake of magnesium is 310 milligrams for women and 400 milligrams for men (24).

Benefit #10. Boosts Your Energy Levels

Dragon fruit powder can also boost your energy levels and prevent fatigue. This is because it contains carbohydrates, which are the main source of fuel for your brain and muscles. Carbohydrates can help you perform better in physical and mental activities, as well as improve your mood and alertness (25).

Dragon fruit powder also contains iron, which is essential for the transport of oxygen in your blood. Oxygen is needed for the production of energy in your cells. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which can impair your energy production and make you feel tired and weak (26).

One tablespoon (10 grams) of dragon fruit powder provides 4% of the DV for iron (1). The recommended daily intake of iron is 18 milligrams for women and 8 milligrams for men (27).

Dragon fruit powder offers a myriad of benefits, from its high antioxidant content to its potential for supporting heart health and digestion. When incorporating this superfood powder into your diet, be mindful of potential allergens and start with small amounts to gauge your body’s response. As with any dietary change, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

How to Use Dragon Fruit Powder For Maximum Benefits

Dragon fruit powder is easy to use and versatile. You can add it to your water, smoothies, juices, yogurt, oatmeal, cereal, pancakes, muffins, cakes, cookies and more. You can also sprinkle it on top of your salads, fruits or desserts.

The recommended serving size of dragon fruit powder is one tablespoon (10 grams), which provides 35 calories and 2 grams of fiber. You can adjust the amount according to your taste and preference.

You can buy dragon fruit powder online or in some health food stores. Make sure to choose a product that is organic, pure and free of additives or preservatives.

Potential Concerns or Risks

Dragon fruit powder is generally safe and well tolerated by most people. However, some potential concerns or risks include:

Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to dragon fruit or its components. Symptoms may include hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming dragon fruit powder, seek medical attention immediately.
Drug interactions: Dragon fruit powder may interact with some medications or supplements that affect blood sugar levels or blood pressure levels. For example, dragon fruit may lower blood sugar levels and enhance the effects of insulin or oral diabetes drugs. It may also lower blood pressure levels and enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs

By understanding the unique benefits of dragon fruit powder and how to enjoy them, you can make informed decisions about how to integrate this nutritious ingredient into your daily life. Whether you’re looking to boost your antioxidant intake, support your digestive system, or simply add a pop of color to your favorite recipes, dragon fruit powder is a valuable addition to any healthy lifestyle.