The prickly pear is a tropical fruit that is very well accepted in Mexico, due to the popularity of the benefits it brings to the body. It is a fruit that is sometimes confused with the plant from which it comes, which is known as nopal and comes from the cactus family, on the other hand, the scientific name of the fruit is: Opuntia ficus-indica and in addition to being known in Mexico, it also has great popularity in the United States, part of South America and Europe.
The composition of this fruit makes it useful to treat and prevent many diseases, disorders and conditions, among which the following can be mentioned: reduce cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, prevent bone diseases, regulate blood pressure, improve digestion, treating acne, fighting diabetes and even many people consume this fruit with the aim of losing weight, since thanks to its composition, it serves to eliminate unwanted fat from the body. In addition, this fruit is very useful in the kitchen, since it is used to prepare desserts, juices, juices, jams and sweets in general.
Index
Prickly pear benefits
The fruit can add different benefits to the body, however, it must be ingested while fasting if you want to obtain all its benefits. Among the benefits that can be obtained by ingesting this fruit, are the following:
Reduce the cholesterol
This fruit is rich in fiber, which is responsible for reducing cholesterol levels in the body, it also helps reduce triglycerides, which are found in the blood when an individual usually consumes foods with high levels of fat.
Increases the level of calcium in the body
Maintaining a high level of calcium in the body is necessary because this is in charge of keeping the bones strong, otherwise, a fracture, degenerative bone diseases or other things could easily occur. The prickly pear is a fruit rich in calcium, in addition, it has another variety of minerals necessary to maintain strong and healthy bones.
Prickly pear to lose weight
The prickly pear has some minerals that help to lose weight, in addition to this, the fruit has 80% water in its characteristics, that is why it helps to reduce the level of body fat in the body, because the juices of this fruit help to burn unnecessary fats from the body.
On the other hand, the prickly pear is ideal for weight loss because it is a low-calorie fruit, therefore when ingested it will not make the individual fat, it already has only 40 mg of calories, not to mention that it generates an effect of satiety when consumed, which prevents the individual from wanting to continue eating.
Regulates blood pressure
Blood pressure is controlled by the kidneys, therefore, to have adequate blood pressure, each kidney must be in good condition. The prickly pear has large amounts of phosphorus, this mineral helps improve kidney function because it stimulates the organ to improve urine circulation, therefore, it also works as a diuretic.
Helps digest food
Due to the amounts of soluble fiber that prickly pear has, the fruit becomes a solution to indigestion, in addition to that, you can also avoid it because it has vitamin C, which makes the digestive system improve immediately; That is why in case of indigestion, this fruit can be consumed, since it will help digestion to work better and will help combat all the ills that poor digestion can bring.
Works to treat acne
The pulp of the prickly pear can be used in various ways, either in juices or meals, it always provides the same benefits, although one of the most effective methods to treat acne and skin problems such as pimples, blackheads or others. It is by applying it directly to the affected area, either as a mask along with other ingredients or simply by placing it on the skin.
It is recommended to do this process just before sleeping, so that the elements have more time to take effect and therefore achieve an effective result.
Treatment for diabetes
Diabetes is a problem that has become very common in society, which deals with excess sugar in the blood, which is mainly due to a poor diet. The prickly pear has various minerals that can act in the body as purifiers, in addition to this, they also have the function of regulating the levels of sugars in the blood, fats or others.
Magnesium is one of the main minerals that helps fight diabetes, because it helps the body digest excess sugar in the body, fats and / or starches.
In addition, it should be mentioned that this fruit has very little sugar in its composition and therefore, it can be consumed by people with diabetes, without any risk of worsening the situation.
Properties and nutrients of the prickly pear
The prickly pear is a fruit that, as mentioned, has various characteristics that can be of benefit, on the other hand, it should be noted that the fruit has these benefits thanks to the amount of proteins it has, in addition to its minerals and vitamins, which are:
- Vitamin A.
- Vitamin B.
- C vitamin.
- Vitamina K.
- Vitamin E.
- Football.
- Potassium.
- Zinc.
- Magnesium.
- Match.
- Potassium.
- Iron.
- Sodium.
Side effects if consumed in excess
This fruit provides many benefits to the human body, however, care must be taken with consuming it in excess, since this can have many consequences, among which the following stand out:
- Stomach pains
- Headaches.
- Kidney problems.
On the other hand, it should be taken into account that some people may be allergic to this fruit, therefore, if the following symptoms are observed:
- Vomiting
- Stomach pains
- Headaches.
- Rash.
- Inflammation.
Its ingestion must be stopped and to attend the doctor as soon as possible, to avoid possible permanent consequences.
Contraindications
This fruit provides many benefits, however, in some cases it is not recommended, because it can worsen the situation of the individual. Prickly pear cannot be consumed in the following cases:
- It is not recommended in pregnant or lactating women, because it has very strong compounds that could affect the development of the fetus or baby.
- Children under 4 years old should not consume this fruit either, for the aforementioned.
- People with kidney problems.
- People with an irritable colon, as it has different properties that affect digestion and can have a negative effect.
Finally, it should be taken into account that this fruit also has laxative properties, therefore, excessive consumption can generate dependence on laxatives.
Conclusion: Is it advisable to consume prickly pear?
Prickly pear is a fully recommended fruit as long as it is not contraindicated. Its consumption is recommended, due to the large number of benefits it provides.
Finally, it should be taken into account that excessive consumption is not recommended and that in addition, if you are undergoing medical treatment, it is recommended to see a doctor before starting a regular consumption.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.