The Nopal is a wild plant grown mainly in America and from distant times has been used in popular medicine. It possesses large quantities of nutrients and is a rich source of fiber, both soluble (it dissolves in water) and insoluble (it doesn't dissolve in water), which contribute great benefits to our organism.
The nopal is a vegetable rich in fibers, vitamins and inorganic nutrients. The nopal contributes cellulose and lignin, fibers which help in the proper functioning of the digestive tract. It also contains other vegetable fibers such as pectin, mucilages and gums that reduce certain lipids.
The insoluble fiber prevents and relieves constipation, hemorrhoids and at the same time prevents the development of cancer of the colon (large intestine), moreover, the soluble fiber helps people suffering from diabetes and the same time slows down the absorption of glucose and helps to eliminate it. It also helps to eliminate cholesterol by preventing its absorption and therefore, its accumulation in the veins and arteries. It is also recommended to for losing weight because it contributes to the elimination of fats and the same time provokes a feeling of satiety.
Mexican studies into the effects of Nopal on the blood sugar level, lipids and body weight produced results such as the reduction of blood sugar, total cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids), as well as a reduction in body weight. Therefore, the inclusion of Nopal in our daily diet may also help the treatment of obesity, hyperlipidemia and diabetes mellitus.
MAIN ADVANTAGES OF NOPAL
- Regulates intestinal flow
- Helps to reduce weight because it contributes to the elimination of fats
- Helps in the treatment of cholesterol and diabetes mellitus
- Slows down the absorption of glucose and helps to eliminate it
- Provokes a feeling of satiety
- Can be eaten raw in salads, cooked or dehydrated
- Contain vitamins A, Complex B, C, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron and fibers in lignin
- Contains both soluble and insoluble dietetic fibers
- Protects the gastrointestinal mucus
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