THE BENEFITS OF NOPAL
THE GREEN GOLD

The benefits of roasted and raw prickly pear are due to its richness in fiber and to its ability to improve the cellular response to insulin. The consumption of prickly pear leaf significantly decreases the levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides in diabetics and it also lowers their glucose levels (administer 100gr of roasted prickly pear three times a day, 20 minutes before each meal). Also, the administration of prickly pear to healthy individuals, before administering glucose orally, prevents the elevation of blood glucose, which occurs normally 120 to 180 minutes after the glucose intake, and decreases blood insulin levels.

In a study with non-diabetic patients, the consumption of 250g of fresh prickly pear cactus daily for 8 weeks led to a decrease in total cholesterol and low-density cholesterol levels. Likewise, an 11% decrease in insulin and glucose levels was observed.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
According to the aforementioned studies, the most efficient form of consumption of prickly pear for diabetic patients is roasted. The following combination can increase its benefits: roast two prickly pear leaves (nopales) on the grill, without fat, serve them seasoned with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Consume this recipe 3 times a day, 20 min before each meal.

Studies have confirmed that regular consumption of prickly pear helps us to:

– Lower high cholesterol levels
- Combat the formation of clots
- Decrease tissue damage caused by oxidation

The amino acids, fiber and niacin contained in the nopal prevent excess blood sugar from turning into fat, while on the other hand, it metabolizes fat and fatty acids thus reducing cholesterol. In a study published in 2001 (Budinsky, 2001), it was shown that the consumption of roasted prickly pear (250 gr per day) generated a decrease in both total cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol (LDL).

This same group of researchers reported that regular consumption of prickly pear significantly reduces the levels of an oxidation marker, as well as the damage done to tissues by the compounds generated by the oxidation of fats in our body. Also, it significantly reduces the risk of heart attack.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Consumed in the same way that is recommended for diabetes, it helps reduce cholesterol and the oxidation of blood fats.

Some studies have suggested that prickly pear contains substances that give it anti-inflammatory, analgesic and protective properties of the gastric mucosa.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Pass 4 carrots, 2 celery stalks and 1⁄2 large raw potato through the juice extractor. Liquefy the juice obtained with 1 prickly pear and consume as such.

In an animal study, it was observed that prickly pear protects the fatty liver by decreasing the oxidation of fats in the liver, the fasting insulin levels, the size of the liver and by the improvement of the liver enzyme levels.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Pass 2 red apples, 2 carrots, 2 radishes and 1 slice of pineapple through the juice extractor. Liquefy the juice obtained with a prickly pear and consume as such.

The Nopal contains vitamins A, Complex B, C, minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Iron and fibers, cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and mucilages that together with the 17 amino acids to help eliminate toxins.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Liquefy 1 nopal leaf in a glass of pineapple juice with 5 sprigs of parsley and consume as such.