The effect of Hylocereus polyrhizus (red dragon fruit) on whole gut transit time of young Malaysian adults
https://doi.org/10.31246/mjn-2020-0100
- Author:
Lim Kean Ghee
1
;
Ling Chian Voon
2
Author Information
1. Department of Surgery, Clinical Campus, International Medical University, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
2. School of Medicine, International Medical University, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Hylocereus polyrhizus, laxative, whole gut transit time, young adult
- From:
Malaysian Journal of Nutrition
2021;27(No.1):153-158
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction: The red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is a popular fruit, not
only where it originated from, in Central America, but across the world including in
Asia. It contains healthy minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, and has been shown
to have gut motility action in animals. Methods: To determine the effect of red
dragon fruit on whole gut transit time, a cross-sectional study of whole gut transit
time using two different stool markers was conducted among 128 young Malaysian
adults. Results: Red dragon fruit, in a half fruit serving of 225±25 grams, reduced
mean whole gut transit time from 26.0±12.9 hours to 21.9±12.8 hours (p<0.001)
when colour change in stools was used as an indicator. The tests also showed that
14.8-17.3% of individuals had whole gut transit time ≥40 hours with carbon as a
stool marker compared to only 7.8-8.6% when red dragon fruit was consumed and
used as a marker. Conclusion: This study demonstrated a laxative effect of red
dragon fruit among young adults.
- Full text:4.2021my0531.pdf
