Colorful and exotic in appearance, pitaya has gained space on shelves and on social media because of its vibrantly colored pulp, usually pink or white with small black seeds. Despite having a mild, almost neutral flavor, it is rich in water, fiber and antioxidants, making it a good option for those looking for refreshment and health in the form of juice.
According to nutritionists, pitaya is low in calories and has properties that promote digestion, intestinal regulation and hydration. In addition, it contains vitamin C and antioxidant compounds that help fight free radicals, preventing premature aging of cells.
“It is rich in several natural compounds that bring enormous anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective, hypoglycemic, insulin resistance modulator and neuroprotective power. Furthermore, it is rich in vitamins such as B1, B2, B3 and C; minerals such as sodium, calcium, phosphorus and iron; fat; carbohydrates; fiber; phytoalbumin and carotenes”, explains Sheila Mustafá, postgraduate in Functional Clinical Nutrition, Functional Phytotherapy and Women’s Health and aesthetics.
The juice can be made just by blending the pitaya pulp in a blender with water or coconut water. The fruit itself does not have a strong taste, which opens up space for combinations with other fruits that, in addition to making the juice tastier, add new nutrients.
Care when consuming pitaya juice
Consuming pitaya juice is safe for most people, but should be done in cases of patients who have diabetes, as the preparation may include sweeter fruits that increase the glycemic load of the drink.
Nutritionists also reinforce that pitaya juice, as well as any other juice, should not replace the consumption of the fresh fruit, which better preserves fiber. But, on a daily basis, it can be a practical and refreshing way to vary your diet.
“Fresh fruit has fiber that makes you feel more satiated, because you can chew it, feel the flavor and it occupies the largest volume in the stomach, causing the person to consume less. Juice also has much more calories, less fiber, in other words, you don’t have blood sugar control, so the fructose is absorbed very quickly”, adds Guilherme Lopes, a nutritionist.
See 4 practical pitaya juice recipes
Pitaya with lemon
- 1 pitaya (pulp)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 200 ml ice water or coconut water
- Preparation: Blend everything in a blender and serve with ice.
Pitaya with pineapple
- 1 pitaya (pulp)
- 2 slices of pineapple
- 200 ml of ice water
- Preparation: Blend until smooth. If you want, strain it before drinking.
Pitaya with passion fruit
- 1 pitaya (pulp)
- Pulp of 1 passion fruit
- 200 ml coconut water
- Preparation: Blend and serve immediately to maintain nutrients.
Pitaya smoothie with strawberry
- 8 sweet strawberries
- 250ml coconut yogurt (or natural yogurt choose a yogurt with 2 ingredients)
- ½ pitaya or 1 whole depending on size
- 1 date
- Preparation: Blend everything in a blender and consume immediately.
