What Powdered Nopal Does?

  • Hyperglycemia: Numerous studies on humans have shown that eating nopal with meals can significantly reduce postprandial blood glucose levels in individuals experiencing hyperglycemia. Studies have reported reductions in blood sugar and is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, while this effect appears less noticeable in healthy individuals (Gouws et al., 2019).

  • Hyperlipidemia: Nopal consumption contributes to a reduction in LDL cholesterol. Nopal can also improve HDL cholesterol levels. (Giglio et al., 2020).

  • Weight Management: Nopal is fibrous, which can promote feelings of fullness and support healthy digestion. As a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option, Nopal provides important amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it a solid addition to a balanced diet for those focused on managing their weight (Hernández-Becerra et al, 2022).

  • Digestive Health: Nopal contains soluble fiber, mucilaginous polysaccharides, and glycoproteins that are said to be supportive of digestive health. This could help support general digestive health by possibly exerting a soothing action on the digestive system (Remes-Troche, 2021).

Gouws, C. A., Georgousopoulou, E. N., Mellor, D. D., McKune, A., & Naumovski, N. (2019). Effects of the Consumption of Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia spp.) and its Products on Blood Glucose Levels and Insulin: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(5), 138. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55050138

Giglio, R. V., Carruba, G., Cicero, A. F. G., Banach, M., Patti, A. M., Nikolic, D., Cocciadiferro, L., Zarcone, M., Montalto, G., Stoian, A. P., Banerjee, Y., Rizvi, A. A., Toth, P. P., & Rizzo, M. (2020). Pasta Supplemented with Opuntia ficus-indica Extract Improves Metabolic Parameters and Reduces Atherogenic Small Dense Low-Density Lipoproteins in Patients with Risk Factors for the Metabolic Syndrome: A Four-Week Intervention Study. Metabolites, 10(11), 428. https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo10110428

Remes-Troche, J. M., Taboada-Liceaga, H., Gill, S., Amieva-Balmori, M., Rossi, M., Hernández-Ramírez, G., García-Mazcorro, J. F., & Whelan, K. (2021). Nopal fiber (Opuntia ficus-indica) improves symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome in the short term: a randomized controlled trial. Neurogastroenterology and motility, 33(2), e13986. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.13986

Hernández-Becerra, E., de los Angeles Aguilera-Barreiro, M., Contreras-Padilla, M., Pérez-Torrero, E., & Rodriguez-Garcia, M. E. (2022). Nopal cladodes (Opuntia Ficus indica): Nutritional properties and functional potential. Journal of Functional Foods, 95, 105183. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2022.105183

Learn more about the powers of nopales

nutritional properties

With just 14 calories per cup, nopales deliver essential nutrients like calcium, fiber, and antioxidants.

Natural Germ Killer?

Nopales contain compounds that may help fight bacteria and promote gut health, making them a natural antibiotic powerhouse.

Historical uses

Used by the Aztecs for healing wounds and treating fevers, nopales have a long history of medicinal value.

Can Nopal Affect Meds?

Due to its gel-like properties, it’s best to space out eating nopal and taking medications to avoid absorption issues.

Why eat Cactus?

Nopales are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a powerful addition to a healthy diet.

Is Nopal Baby-Safe?

Rich in calcium and essential nutrients, nopales can support healthy bone development during pregnancy.

stay fit, stay full

Nopales are rich in dietary fiber, supporting digestion, promoting fullness, and helping regulate blood sugar levels