Yes! It is the same! 

The actual name, pitaya or pitahaya (they are interchangeable), comes from the Latin American heritage of this exotic fruit. It is native to Central America (dating back to the 13^th century). However, it made its way to Vietnam and Malaysia (probably due to its popularity with Asian consumers), where it is now widely grown. We’ve heard that the Vietnamese name, “thang loy,” somehow translates into the English words “dragon fruit,” and thus the different name. In Israel, where the fruit is commercially grown and being imported into the U.S., the growers like to call it “pitaya” or “pitahaya,” while the Vietnamese growers label theirs “dragon fruit.”

Its taste has been described as a slightly sweet cross between a kiwi and a pear. However, taste differs between different varieties.
Some people say that some varieties of red dragon resemble very sweet beets or watermelons. Some say that fruit seeds taste like poppy seeds or chia.

If you have eaten at least one fresh dragon fruit, be sure – you won’t confuse this taste with other fruits anymore!

YES! It really is! 

Dragon fruit is low in calories but packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It also contains a substantial amount of dietary fiber. Dietary fibers are nondigestible carbohydrates that boast an extensive list of potential health benefits.

Fiber, especially soluble fiber, has many benefits, including reduced cholesterol levels, slowed absorption of carbs and increased satiety. Plus, studies have shown that soluble fiber can help you lose weight!

For the most part, pitaya is safe to eat and offers many health benefits due to its vitamin C and antioxidant properties. The fruit is low in calories, making it a perfect everyday snack.