4 Incredible Benefits of Dragon Fruit for Fertility + Best Time and Ways to Eat It

Is Dragon fruit good for fertility? Yes, experts say intake may improve sperm and egg quality due to their rich antioxidant contents. So Couples trying to conceive should enjoy pitaya fruit, juice, or smoothies regularly.

Some studies have also suggested that Dragon fruits are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and can improve reproductive functions.

Is Dragon fruit good for pregnant women? Yes, a study [1] says it is rich in folate and other nutrients that can support baby development and improve pregnancy outcomes, however, it’s safe if taken moderately.

Prevents anemic pregnancy: Another study suggests Dragon fruit juice may prevent anemia during pregnancy, as the juice was found to enhance hemoglobin levels in pregnant women [2, 3].

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. As you can see, pitaya is not only for those who are trying to conceive, pregnant women and men with sexual debilities may benefit from this nutrient-rich fruit as well.

Dragon fruit extract also increased energy levels, reduced stress and fatigue, and scavenged free radicals in a study on a male rat model [4].

More Reads:

• 5 Emerging benefits of strawberries for fertility and pregnancy
• 4 Emerging fertility benefits of blueberries
• 5 Impressive fertility benefits of mulberries for men and women
• How cranberry pills can affect fertility in men and women: Science-based view

What Studies say about eating dragon fruits for fertility

Some researchers believe that Dragon fruit (Pitaya) is a good source of fertility-boosting vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may be beneficial for fertility [5].

A study published in the journal “Food and Chemical Toxicology” found that dragon fruit extract improved sperm quality in mice. The study authors concluded that dragon fruit extract “could be a potential male fertility agent.” [6, 7].

Another study, published in the journal “Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity,” found that dragon fruit extract improved egg quality in mice. The study authors concluded that dragon fruit extract “may have potential as a therapeutic agent for improving female fertility.

It is important to note that these studies were conducted on animals, and more research is needed to confirm whether dragon fruit has the same effects in humans.

Best time to eat dragon fruit if you are trying to conceive

There is no specific best time to eat Dragon fruit if you are trying to conceive, however, you eat Pitaya for snacks, drink the juice or smoothies regularly during the luteal phase, days of menstruation, and before making love (as some think it has an aphrodisiac effect).

The best thing is if you trying to get pregnant, it is will be an excellent idea to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Dragon fruit can be enjoyed at any time of day as a snack or part of a meal.

Why Dragon Fruit May Help You Get Pregnant

Dragon fruit is a good source of several fertility-boosting nutrients such as:

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. It is also important for the production of collagen, which is essential for healthy reproductive organs.

Vitamin B1: Vitamin B1 is important for energy production and helps the body use carbohydrates properly. It is also important for the development of the nervous system in the fetus.

Vitamin B2: Vitamin B2 is important for energy production and helps the body use carbohydrates, fats, and proteins properly. It is also important for the development of the eyes and skin in the fetus.

Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3 is important for energy production and helps the body use carbohydrates, fats, and proteins properly. It is also important for the development of the nervous system, skin, and digestive system in the fetus.

Iron: Iron is important for carrying oxygen throughout the body. It is also important for the development of the blood supply in the fetus.

Dragon fruit is a healthy food that may be beneficial for fertility, thanks to their vitamins and minerals and antioxidant-rich nature. Antioxidants can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to infertility.

4 Proven Benefits of Dragon Fruit for Fertility

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Dragon fruit is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals [8, 9, 10]. Free radicals can contribute to infertility by damaging sperm and egg cells.

2. Improves Egg Quality

Studies have shown that dragon fruit extract can improve egg quality in mice. This is likely due to the fruit’s high concentration of antioxidants.

Two separate studies where feed and drinking water made from fermented Dragon fruit peel were given to egg-laying Hens and Quails. Hens received dragon-fruit-based feed, while Quails received drinking water containing the pitaya extract. Both studies recorded a significant increase in the quality of their egg [11, 12].

This suggests that the pitaya fruit may improve the egg quality of women of reproductive age, however, research on a human female is needed to understand if the fruit has the same effect on them.

3. Enhances Sperm Quality

Dragon fruit extract has also been shown to improve sperm quality in mice [7, 13]. This is likely due to the fruit’s high concentration of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and iron.

4. Promotes Hormonal Balance

Dragon fruit is thought to help promote hormonal balance, which is important for both male and female fertility.

Dragon fruits may help balance certain body hormones and induce apoptosis leading to the death of certain cancer cells, According to one study, pitaya may offer a protective effect against breast cancer [14]

Another case of hormone regulations was a study where Dragon fruit extract was found to regulate estrogen levels thus Inhibiting and causing death of certain cellular growth that could cause breast cancer [15]

How to Eat Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Slice and eat it raw: This is the simplest way to enjoy dragon fruit. Simply cut the fruit in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
• Add it to smoothies: Dragon fruit is a delicious addition to smoothies. It adds a touch of sweetness and a nice pop of color.
• Top yogurt with it: Dragon fruit makes a healthy and delicious topping for yogurt.
• Use it in salads: Dragon fruit can be added to salads for a touch of sweetness and a nice crunch.
• Make it into a jam or jelly: Dragon fruit can be made into a delicious jam or jelly.

Best way to store Dragon Fruit

• Choose dragon fruit that is firm and has smooth skin.
• The color of the skin should be bright and vibrant.
• The flesh should be white or pink and have black seeds.
• Store dragon fruit in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Dragon fruit can also be frozen for up to 6 months.

Dragon fruit is a healthy and nutritious food that may offer some benefits for fertility. More research is needed to confirm these benefits, but dragon fruit can be a safe and delicious addition to your diet.

Possible concerns when eating Dragon fruit

Dragon fruit is generally safe to eat, but there are a few potential concerns to be aware of:

Allergic Reactions

In rare cases, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to dragon fruit, causing symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling of the tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming dragon fruit, stop eating it immediately and consult with a healthcare professional.

Gastrointestinal Upset

Eating too much dragon fruit, especially in its raw form, may cause temporary digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, or gas. This is because dragon fruit contains a high amount of insoluble fiber, which can be difficult for some people to digest. To minimize these effects, gradually increase your intake of dragon fruit and consider consuming it alongside foods that are rich in soluble fiber, such as fruits and vegetables.

Interaction with Medications

Dragon fruit may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners and immunosuppressants. If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor before incorporating dragon fruit into your diet. They can advise you on whether it is safe for you to consume and if there are any precautions you should take.

Conclusion

Dragon fruit is a nutritious and delicious tropical fruit that may offer potential benefits for fertility, including boosting sperm and egg quality, promoting hormonal balance, and reducing oxidative stress.

However, more research is needed to fully confirm these benefits. It is also important to be aware of potential concerns such as allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, and interactions with certain medications.