The Health Benefits of the Prickly Pear Nopal Cactus

Many individuals keep prickly pear cactuses in their homes or gardens for decoration. However, what you may not realize is that the prickly pear cactus is full of antioxidants that benefit your health. It also has a high concentration of vitamin C. It is a vitamin known to stimulate the human immune system. Also known as the nopal cactus, the prickly pear is from Mexico and the best mine in the hot climate.

Weight Control and Diabetes

This type of cactus is very helpful for diabetics. A 2005 study conducted by researchers in Mexico City showed that a diabetic who incorporated nopal cactus into his daily diet could expect to see his glucose levels drop dramatically. This may be partly due to the fact that certain nutrients in the cactus pad prevent the body from absorbing excess sugar from other foods.

However, this information does not apply only to diabetics. Individuals who are actively trying to lose weight can also benefit from low blood glucose levels. High glucose levels can lead to acute starvation that can lead to excessive eating. In addition to controlling glucose, cactus is a high fiber diet. Individuals who are high in fiber have a tendency to be fuller than those who are high in sugar. Therefore, cactus can be a great supplement to those who are trying to control their weight.

Digestive system

Nopal cactus has been used for thousands of years by Mexican Indians as a supplement to regulate the digestive system. Individuals who incorporate nopal cactus supplements into their diet can expect higher levels of regularity in their bowel movements. Cactus also contains insoluble fiber. As a result, it acts as a natural colon cleanser and finds a body of dirt found in the colon that can interfere with your digestive health.

For those who have struggled with pancreatitis in the past, the nopal cactus can provide a wonderful solution to a painful problem. Insoluble fiber that acts as a colon cleanser also absorbs the excess bile released by the pancreas. Excessive unabsorbed accumulation is stored by the gall bladder and can cause bile stones. Kidney stones can cause further episodes of pancreatitis in chronic patients.

How To Take Prickly Pear

Nopal cactus can be eaten raw or cooked. If you feel very brave, you can grow a cactus at home and carefully remove the needle before grilling or cutting it into salads. However, for many individuals, the work involved in preparing a meal with a cactus proved to be too much. If you want to enjoy the health benefits without the risk of biting into a sharp needle, you can buy herbal supplements in the form of pills. This supplement contains cactus powder which has the same health benefits as eating cactus in its natural form. Alternatively, you can also buy supplements in the form of liquid or juice. There are a number of companies that offer high levels of antioxidant juice or concentrates found in nopal pear pear cactus. And, if you live in the southwestern United States, you can also buy the cactus that is already available at your local grocery store.

Modern research shows that the nopal cactus can lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, increase energy levels, and prevent nerve damage. Some vegetables can boast of this with a variety of health benefits for the human body. If you are concerned about your health or weight, consider taking some supplements or developing one of the versatile cactuses in your own garden. You may find that, with the health benefits aside, you just love the taste.

------------------