Natural Health Advisory

A cactus doesn’t look like much of a health food, but these nutrient-dense plants are full of health-boosting compounds that make them an effective natural remedy for a variety of conditions. One of the more surprising cactus benefits? Natural diabetes control.

Cactus: a super food?

Cacti from the family Opuntia (often known as prickly pear or nopal) grow in areas like Latin America and the Mediterranean. They are often used in Mexican cuisine and have been used for many years as a traditional medicine for conditions like ulcers, glaucoma, wounds, fatigue, and more.[1] More recently, they have been studied for their beneficial effects on conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Opuntia cacti are rich sources of vitamins E, C, K, and B,[1,2] potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. The plant also contains healthy fatty acids like linolenic, oleic, and palmitic acids.[2] Maybe most importantly, they are full of antioxidant compounds like flavonols, carotenoids, and vitamin C. High in fiber, the fruits and pads are also low-calorie foods.[1,3]

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Low glycemic index, good blood sugar control

Cactus has a low glycemic index of only 32.5, along with a low insulemic index.[3] It seems to help keep blood sugar low and prevent spikes in glucose after meals. One study in people with type 2 diabetes found that eating cactus with a meal reduced peak glucose levels to a healthy level 46 and 60 minutes after eating.[3] In another study, non-diabetic men who ate 250 g per day of prickly pear pulp showed an 11% reduction in both glucose and insulin levels.[4]

These studies add to the growing body of evidence showing that cactus has blood sugar lowering effects. It may do this by inhibiting the intestinal absorption of glucose.[5]

Cactus benefits extend to the heart 

Cactus can also benefit heart health, in part by lowering risk factors for cardiovascular disease.[1] In one study in men with high cholesterol, eating 250 g/day of prickly pear pulp decreased total cholesterol by 12%, LDL cholesterol by 15%, and triglycerides by 12%.[4]

In another study, researchers found that cactus fiber helped increase the amount of fat excreted in adults, suggesting that it may help reduce fat absorption and help maintain a healthy weight.[1]

Try cactus for natural diabetes control

Don’t let the spiny nature of this plant fool you; the many cactus benefits make this plant a friend, not a foe. Look for cactus pads or fruits and boil or steam them. Try adding them to salads or other dishes.

You can also buy prickly pear pulp or juice, which can be added to smoothies as a healthy supplement. Around 100 to 500 grams per day is recommended for diabetes control.

Other natural options for diabetes care include milk thistle, zinc, and ALA.

Share your experience

Have you ever experienced any cactus benefits? Have you tried it for managing diabetes? Share your experience in the comments section below.

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[1] Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2014 Jun 21;76:39-44.

[2] Molecules. 2014 Sep 17;19(9):14879-901.

[3] J Acad Nutr Diet. 2014 Nov;114(11):1811-8.

[4] Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2002 Oct 31;114(19-20):840-6.

[5] Pharm Biol. 2014 Oct;52(10):1286-90.

[5] J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Jan 27;133(2):940-3.

The post Natural Diabetes Control Is Just One of the Many Cactus Benefits appeared first on Natural Health Advisory.

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