Health Benefits

 For over 7,000 years fresh Nopal has been consumed for its many nutritional qualities, only recently in the last 20 years has science truly been interested in the investigation of this remarkable medicinal plant. Nopal  Verde (opuntia-indica)  or green Nopal, the only edible type has recently been recommended in a vast array of circulation, heart and digestive disorders. Below are a  number of the most recent findings.


Colon Cleansing:
Treatment and Prevention of Colon Cancer

Nopal contains both soluble and insoluble dietary fibers.  The insoluble dietary fiber in Nopal (more commonly known as roughage), absorbs water and gently hastens food through the digestive track and contributes to regular bowel movements.  In addition the presence of insoluble fibers in the colon help to dilute the concentration of potential carcinogens that may be present.  Soluble fibers also contribute to regularity.  Furthermore NOPAL is a gentle alternative to psyllium for those with a sensitivity or allergy to psyllium

Nopal Powder has rapidly become one of the principal forms for consuming Nopal in many countries around the world. The reason for this is three fold. 1.)The ever increasing international demand  no longer makes it feasible to transport vast quantities of fresh Nopal by air or sea.  2.)  Customer preference in consumption requires a more pharmaceutical  approach to packaging for wider acceptance 3.)  Shelf life and nutritional value are extended through the dehydration process.

Hyperlipidemia (High cholesterol/ Fat levels):
Known to reduce cholesterol

Nopal's amino acids, fiber and B3 (niacin) prevent excess blood sugar conversions into fats, while reducing the total cholesterol, tri glyceride and LDL cholesterol levels by metabolizing fat and fatty acids and eliminating excess bile acids (excess bile acid is eventually converted into cholesterol).  Other research studies on B3 (niacin) show its conversion effects of LDL (bad) to HDL (good) forms of cholesterol and help decrease the risk of heart disease.

Arteriosclerosis:
Blocked arteries are prevented

The effects of the amino acids and fiber, including the anti-oxidant of Nopal's vitamin C and A (B-carotene) prevents the likelihood of blood vessel wall damage and the formation of fatty plaques

Gastric Ulcers / Gastrointestinal Disorders:
Reduces and eliminates gastro problems

Nopal vegetable fibers and mucilage’s control excess gastric acid production and protect the Gastrointestinal mucus. This pH buffering and coating has been studied for the prevention of damages that may occur from ingesting spicy foods, aspirin and other NSA IDs.

Digestion / liver function:
Detoxifies and aids in prevention of various illnesses

Nopal's naturally available vitamins A, B1, 2, 3, C and the  minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Iron, and Fibers in Lignin, Cellulose, Hemicelluloses, Pectin, Mucilage’s, and Gum form along with the 17 amino acids to help detoxify and support not only the liver but also the body in general. Ammonia, free radicals and environmental toxins such as alcohol and cigarette smoke-which all suppress the immune system, are removed by Nopal. Nopal also aids in the balancing and calming of the nervous system, which benefits the body's overall function.

Obesity:
Fiber Rich

Nopal's 17 amino acids, 8 of which are essential and must be ingested as food, provide you with more energy and less fatigue by helping the body to lower blood sugar; elevate moods, suppress the appetite and provide nutrients. Fat build up is prevented, while fat break down and excretion is increased. Insoluble fibers such as Lignin are known for increasing satiety and eliminating excessive binges. Nopal's vegetable protein helps the body pull fluids from the tissues back into the bloodstream thereby diminishing cellulite and fluid retention. Also Nopal's 17 amino acids, fibers, vitamins and minerals address the needs of a vegetarian diet.
 

Hyperglycemia (High blood sugar):
Very important in Diabetes II patients

Nopal stabilizes and then regulates blood sugar by increasing the body's levels and sensitivity to insulin. Research studies have shown significant hypoglycemic effects maximal from 4 to 6 hours after Nopal ingestion in type II diabetics and non-diabetics. The dangerous side effects of high blood sugar levels including visual, blood vessel and nerve tissue disturbances are all addressed by Nopal's content of B-carotene (Vita. A, Vitamin C, and Vitamins B1, 2,3.

An excerpt from: Medicinal Use Of The Latin Food Staple Nopales:
 The Prickly Pear Cactus
By Miguel Angel Gutierrez

"The Nopal has been used as a medicinal plant and is a hallmark vegetable in the Latin American diet. Various studies have demonstrated Opuntia’s ability to affect blood glucose and hypercholesterolemia. The intake of prickly pear pectin decreases plasma LDL levels, increases expression of apolipoprotein receptor expression, increases hepatic LDL turnover, and affects cholesterol homeostasis in guinea pigs. Prickly pear pectin, however does not affect absorption of cholesterol in guinea pigs. The prickly pear cactus demonstrates the ability to decrease blood glucose levels as well the hyperglycemic peak during glucose tolerance testing. In addition, Opuntia has demonstrated the ability to control experimentally induced diabetes. Similar studies, along with domestic surveys have prompted international evaluation of the prickly pear cactus to determine its ability to regulate glucose utilization. Currently, homeopathic industries have begun to incorporate Opuntia into supplements intended to help regulate plasma glucose levels."