why eat cactus?

  • Nopales have become so valued due to their high nutritional content and impressive health-related benefits they have. They do contain large amounts of important vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, adding great value, making them worthy of inclusion in the diet. These are essential in human health, development of immunity, and digestion (Journal of Nutrition, 2023; El-Mostafa et al., 2014).

  • One of the most valuable qualities of nopales is their natural antibiotic property, which is linked with crassulacean acid metabolism or CAM. The specific metabolic process makes it possible for the cactus to inhibit the reproduction of several bacterial species. As a result, both the consumption of nopal and the direct use of its pads on wounds and skin infections have beneficial results (El-Mostafa et al., 2014; Journal of Nutrition, 2023).

  • Nopales also have properties that can enable the detoxification of the body. They are rich in dietary fibers, including both the soluble and insoluble types, which help not only in digestion but also in releasing the toxins of the environment. The insoluble ones help with bowels by maintaining regularity, as well as dilute potential carcinogens in the colon (Journal of Nutrition, 2023; El-Mostafa et al., 2014).

  • Nopales have been linked to a number of health benefits, which include helping digestion, lowering cholesterol, and possibly regulating blood sugar levels. Anti-inflammatory properties of them would be helpful for chronic conditions (El-Mostafa et al., 2014; Journal of Nutrition, 2023).

Journal Of Nutrition. (2023, September 22). Nopal cactus: What is nopal cactus?https://journalofnutrition.org/encyclopedia/what-is-nopal-cactus/

El-Mostafa, K., El Kharrassi, Y., Badreddine, A., Andreoletti, P., Vamecq, J., El Kebbaj, M. S., Latruffe, N., Lizard, G., Nasser, B., & Cherkaoui-Malki, M. (2014). Nopal cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) as a source of bioactive compounds for nutrition, health and disease. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 19(9), 14879–14901.

Learn more about the powers of nopales

powdered nopales

Nopal powder provides a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of fiber, vitamins, and gut health support.

Natural Germ Killer?

Nopales contain compounds that may help fight bacteria and promote gut health, making them a natural antibiotic powerhouse.

Historical uses

Used by the Aztecs for healing wounds and treating fevers, nopales have a long history of medicinal value.

Can Nopal Affect Meds?

Due to its gel-like properties, it’s best to space out eating nopal and taking medications to avoid absorption issues.

nutritional properties

With just 14 calories per cup, nopales deliver essential nutrients like calcium, fiber, and antioxidants.

Is Nopal Baby-Safe?

Rich in calcium and essential nutrients, nopales can support healthy bone development during pregnancy.

stay fit, stay full

Nopales are rich in dietary fiber, supporting digestion, promoting fullness, and helping regulate blood sugar levels