What benefits does cactus smoothie have on an empty stomach?

He prickly pearPopularly known as nopal or opuntia, it has caught the attention of many in the health field, and experts offer valuable insight into its potential benefits.

Promoted for its ability to treat conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and even hangovers, the cactus is used object of research by scientists from all over the world.

According to the prestigious Mayo Clinic from the United States, there is preliminary evidence to suggest that prickly pear can help reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

This discovery is of particular importance given the growing problem of diabetes worldwide. According to information from United Nationsthis disease it affects more than 460 million people All over the world.

On the other hand, there are indications that cactus extract could help mitigate unpleasant symptoms associated with hangovers, perhaps due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits of nopal smoothie on an empty stomach

Although still It is not categorically stated that nopal is a superfoodTHE Mayo Clinic indicates that it can be part of a balanced and healthy diet.

As for the ideal time to consume it, some scientific studies indicate that it could bring benefits in morning diet. Also, it is believed that drinking a cactus smoothie on an empty stomach It would improve its effects on the body.

Nopal is a plant rich in fibre, antioxidants and carotenoidsmaking it a nutritionally valuable option for those looking to improve their health and well-being.

The edible parts of the cactus include leaves, flowers, stems and fruits. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, from boiled or roasted to made into jams or delicious smoothies. Its versatility also allows it to be included in soups, fajitas, salads and many other recipes, adapting it to everyone’s preferences.

The properties of the cactus

In a recent article, the healthcare portal Your Saude highlighted the broad property of the cactus. These are the main advantages highlighted by this specialized healthcare site:

• Helps control diabetes. Consuming 500 grams of nopal (about 4 times a week) can help regulate blood sugar in diabetics thanks to its content of polysaccharides, soluble fibers such as pectin and other substances.

• Reduces bad cholesterol. Nopal helps reduce blood cholesterol by acting on LDL cholesterol receptors in the liver. Furthermore, its content of polyunsaturated fats, such as linoleic, oleic and palmitic acids, helps reduce LDL cholesterol, increase HDL and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

• Potentially prevents cancer. It contains antioxidants such as phenols, flavonoids, vitamin C and vitamin E which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially preventing cancer.

• Protects the cells of the nervous system. Nopal contains substances such as nicotiflorine, which exerts a protective and anti-inflammatory effect on neuronal cells, which may help reduce the risk of dementia.

• Promotes weight loss. This plant is rich in fibre, which slows down digestion, increases the sense of satiety and reduces hunger, thus promoting weight loss together with a healthy and balanced diet.

• Improves digestion. Its high fiber content, mainly pectin and mucilage, helps improve digestion and intestinal transit, preventing diarrhea, constipation and the development of gastric ulcers.

• It acts as an antiviral. The cactus has antiviral properties, especially against the herpes simplex virus and influenza A, which inhibit its spread and replication.

• Helps control blood pressure. The potassium content of the cactus helps eliminate excess sodium from the body, helping to control blood pressure. Furthermore, its antioxidant compounds preserve arterial health, improve blood circulation and prevent hypertension.

A delicious and healthy smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 nopal stalk cut into pieces
• 1 slice of pineapple
• 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
• Half a cucumber cut into pieces
• Juice of 2 oranges

How is it prepared:

1. Put all the ingredients in the blender.
2. Blend until you obtain a mixture with a homogeneous consistency.
3. Serve and enjoy this nutritious smoothie, rich in antioxidants and diuretic to help reduce inflammation in the body.