The fruit has become the latest health craze on the internet, causing people to rush to the bathroom. The fruit in question is the yellow dragon fruit, which has been known for some time but is now gaining popularity online due to its natural laxative properties. The hashtag #yellowdragonfruit has gone viral on TikTok, with over 110 million views, as users share their experiences of how the fruit helps digestion.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/bergamont & Shutterstock/TetianaKtv
Yellow Dragon Fruit: What Is It?
The yellow dragon fruit, also known as Selenicereus megalanthus, is a tropical fruit native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, with a bright yellow exterior covered in smooth spines. Inside, it has translucent white flesh and tiny black seeds that are edible. Some TikTok users describe its flavor as a combination of kiwi and pear or pear and pineapple. This fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, which helps combat free radical damage that may lead to diseases such as heart disease and cancer. According to WebMD, it contains protein, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Does Yellow Dragon Fruit Act As A Laxative?
Yellow dragon fruit is a natural laxative due to its high fiber content, specifically soluble fiber, according to Bonnie Taub-Dix, a registered dietitian nutritionist. Soluble fiber dissolves in fluids and feeds good bacteria in the gut, leading to reduced inflammation and better digestion. It’s also linked to reduced fat storage, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, and lower heart disease risk, per Cleveland Clinic. In contrast, insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve but instead absorbs fluids to form bulkier stools, promoting regular bowel movements and better colorectal health.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Alexander Ruiz Acevedo
Is Yellow Dragon Fruit Harmful?
Yellow dragon fruit is unlikely to cause bloating, cramping, or diarrhea, according to Frances Largeman-Roth, a registered dietitian nutritionist. However, Bonnie Taub-Dix recommends consuming it in moderation, especially if your daily fiber intake is typically low. Taub-Dix suggests adding pieces of yellow dragon fruit to a fruit salad for those who haven’t tried it before. But Largeman-Roth reminds us that you don’t need to spend money on expensive tropical fruit to get enough fiber in your diet. Apples, pears, oranges, and berries are all excellent sources of fiber. Additionally, it’s essential to wash the fruit under running water before slicing it, as the skin of dragon fruit is not edible.