Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, has gained significant attention in recent years due to its unique appearance, vibrant color, and potential health benefits.

Native to Central America but now widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, dragon fruit is recognized for its rich nutritional profile and bioactive compounds.

Research into these bioactive components has been growing, highlighting their potential to contribute to human health through various functional properties. This article delves into the progress of research on the major bioactive components of dragon fruit and their functional properties.

Dragon fruit is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is particularly high in vitamin C, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and calcium.

The fruit’s low-calorie content, coupled with its high water and fiber levels, makes it an excellent choice for weight management and overall health. However, beyond these basic nutrients, dragon fruit contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its health-promoting properties.

Betalains：Betalains are the pigments responsible for the vibrant red or purple color of dragon fruit, particularly in the species Hylocereus polyrhizus and Hylocereus costaricensis.

These compounds are known for their strong antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

Research has shown that betalains may have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and liver-protective effects, making them a significant area of interest in the study of dragon fruit’s health benefits.

Flavonoids: Flavonoids are another group of bioactive compounds found in dragon fruit. These polyphenolic compounds are widely recognized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Specific flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin have been identified in dragon fruit. These compounds have been linked to various health benefits, including cardiovascular protection, improved immune function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

Dietary Fiber: Dragon fruit is a good source of dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which plays a crucial role in digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

The prebiotic properties of the fiber in dragon fruit have also been studied, showing potential benefits in promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn can enhance immune function and overall health.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: The seeds of dragon fruit contain essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These polyunsaturated fats are known for their role in heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function.

Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improving cognitive function, and maintaining healthy vision.

Polysaccharides: Recent studies have highlighted the presence of bioactive polysaccharides in dragon fruit. These complex carbohydrates have been shown to exhibit various functional properties, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities.

Polysaccharides from dragon fruit have also been studied for their ability to lower blood glucose levels, making them a potential candidate for managing diabetes.

Research into the functional properties of dragon fruit’s bioactive components has uncovered a range of potential health benefits:

Antioxidant Activity: The high levels of antioxidants in dragon fruit, primarily from betalains and flavonoids, help protect cells from oxidative damage, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Both betalains and flavonoids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and heart disease.

Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that the bioactive compounds in dragon fruit, particularly betalains, may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain types of cancer.