Have you ever wondered what that vibrant fuchsia pink fruit was at the grocery store? Did you know that it helps nourish your heart and brain and promotes strong bones and teeth?
Dragon fruit is one of my all-time favourite fruits. It has a host of delicious health benefits, with my favourite being cardiovascular and brain health. All those tiny black seeds found in dragon fruit are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids). These healthy fats reduce triglycerides and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Vitamin B3 present in dragon fruit also helps lower bad (LDL) cholesterol levels, while raising good (HDL) cholesterol levels. Vitamin B3, along with B1 and B2 (also present in the fruit) help support the formation and maintenance of basic nerve cell structures, which allows us to be more alert, and experience higher levels of mental clarity.
Dragon fruit is also high in minerals like calcium and phosphorous, two compounds essential in strengthening your bones and teeth and helping tissue formation and repair. That makes this dragon fruit coconut smoothie great for helping prevent brittle bones and osteoporosis!
Dragon Fruit Coconut Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients: (1 serving)
– 2 cups dragon fruit flesh
– 1 cup mango
– 1 cup non-fat coconut milk
– 2 medjool dates, pitted
– 1/2 tsp. fresh vanilla bean powder
– 1 tsp. maca powder
Method:
Add all of the above ingredients to a blender, and pulse blend for 30-60 seconds until smooth. Enjoy!
