Sonoran Bloom Home
Nopal 'Prickly Pear' Cactus
The fruit from the Nopal Cactus has so many essential nutrients that it helps the body in many remarkable ways. It contains 18 amino acids, of which 10 are essential for humans, vitamins A and C, and a full complement of B, minerals such as calcium and a host of other highly bioactive phytonutrients.
It also contains a unique profile of high soluble and high insoluble fiber. In clinical studies, this has proven to slow the absorption rate of simple carbohydrates into the blood stream, allowing for more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. The fiber also helps to speed the transit time of food through the digestive tract aiding in regular bowel movements and helps to cleanse the colon.
The Nopal prickly pear has also been shown to have a positive effect on the lipids in the bloodstream, reducing the LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, by the abundance of polysaccharide fibers and sterols contained within.
Sliced Cactus Pear
The polyphenol, sterol and glycoprotien components of the prickly pear fruit, provide anti-inflammatory and anti-oxident properties. These work together to help prevent plaque formation in the blood vessels, and thereby have a positive affect in helping prevent cardiovascular disease.
If that isn’t enough, clinical studies have also shown that the fruit stimulates healing of gastric ulcers and that gastrointestinal inflammation is significantly soothed and reduced.
The high levels of antioxidents in the Nopal cactus fruit come to the aid of the liver and immune system, which are taxed from the toxic and stress-filled environment we find ourselves in. If either of these are not functioning at their optimum level, we are open to sickness and disease.
This is not a comprehensive list of the health benefits of this wonderful fruit. This is just some of the properties of the Nopal cactus fruit in general.
Trivita has released a wonderful product called Nopalea, made from this wonderful cactus. Please look through this site to learn more about Nopalea and articles related to health issues for which Nopalea may provide relief.
Prickly Pear Fruit
Disclaimer: The statements contained within are not FDA approved and are not meant for diagnostic or treatment purposes. For health issues, please contact your health care provider.