"Nopales (Nopalitos), made from prickly pear pads, are of particular
interest to medical researchers. Their soluble fiber content is good for diabetics
... One study concludes that the intake of nopales before meals may be useful
in managing ... diabetes," states Dahl, in Wild Foods of the Sonoran Desert,
by Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
Nopalitos contains pectins and mucilage which are beneficial to the digestive
system. It's particularly useful in providing nutrients to the pancreas and liver,
which support digestion and maintain blood sugar balance. Nutritional factors
in Nopalitos may act in the bowel to prevent fat and excessive sugars from
entering the bloodstream.
Lowers High Blood Sugar
Nopalitos strengthens the liver and the pancreas thereby improving the
ability of insulin to stimulate the movement of glucose from the blood into body
cells where it is used as energy. A recent study with adult-onset diabetics in
Mexico showed that there was a clear hypoglycemic effect on the obese, insulin-resistant
patients, with simultaneously lowered serum levels of low-density cholesterols
and triglycerides. Nopalitos also helps to lower the blood sugar.
Improves Immunity
Studies have shown that cactus extract actually improves the function of the immune
system. In fact, phytochemicals are powerful allies of the body's immune system,
allowing it to defend the body against all types of pathogens. Lab animals given
cactus juice demonstrate increased immune efficiency with regards to tumor growth,
Epstein-Barr virus and suppressed immune response. The amounts of phytochemicals
found in nearly all species of cacti make Nopalitos a highly desirable
and sought after commodity. Cactus contains many of these phytochemicals in quantities
greater than many other more traditional plant foods.
Rich in Vitamin A and C
Nopalitos contain large amounts of Vitamin A and C, and also a fair amount
of B vitamins and iron. It is cholesterol free, low in sodium and high in fiber
too.
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to ensure the information provided is to its best accuracy.
However, not all the information provided is under the author's control.
Views and opinions stated here are merely for information only.
The author shall not be responsible for any economic or personal losses,
caused directly or indirectly by consumption of such information.
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