Dragon fruit – a super fruit with immune-boosting properties
Review spoke to Stephanie van der Merwe, Brands and Public Relations Manager at Al 3 Boerdery about the health benefits of this super fruit.
POLOKWANE – Al 3 Boerdery recently had a surplus of Dragon Fruit and decided to give back to the community during these trying times by handing out the fruit at NJ Fresh and Goseame over the weekend.
Review spoke to Stephanie van der Merwe, Brands and Public Relations Manager at Al 3 Boerdery about the health benefits of the fruit.
Van der Merwe explains that since dragon fruit contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals that is needed to support the body, it is also known as a super fruit. The fruit is low in calories therefore is is the perfect snack; delicious, sweet and healthy.
But what else makes dragon fruit so great?
• High in Nutrients: Dragon fruit is low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids and betacyanins.
• May help fight chronic diseases: Dragon fruit contains the antioxidants vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene and betalain. Studies have linked diets high in antioxidants to a reduced risk of chronic disease.
• Loaded with fibre: Dragon fruit offers seven grams of fiber per serving, making it an excellent choice for meeting your daily fiber needs.
• Promotes a healthy gut: Dragon fruit may promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is associated with a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
• Boost immune system: Dragon fruit’s high supply of vitamin C and carotenoids may offer immune-boosting properties.
• Boost low iron levels: Dragon fruit supplies iron along with vitamin C, a combination that may improve your body’s absorption of this important mineral.
• Great source of magnesium: Dragon fruit is a great source of magnesium, a nutrient needed for over 600 biochemical reactions in your body.
Dragon Fruit can be used in so many different ways! Try out this recipe shared on the Al 3 Boerdery Facebook page.
Van der Merwe adds that for those of us who have never had a dragon fruit from Al 3 Boerdery, she says it is super sweet, unlike the commonly known tasteless varieties, but rather has a distinct sweet and tangy taste.
