5 great reasons to start eating cactus fruits
Who thought these wild fruits are so healthy?
Here are some of the health benefits of eating cactus:
1. Antioxidants
This purple and succulent fruit is not only sweet but it’s also rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are protective in nature and they protect your body from the free radicals that lead to chronic diseases such as diabetes. They also have antiaging effects and help in improving your vision.
2. Cancer
Cancer is a dreaded and deadly disease. The prickly cactus pear is rich in flavonoids, betalains and polyphenols which are antioxidants that play a major role in preventing the mutation of healthy cells into cancerous cells. Research has shown that people who incorporate these antioxidants in their diet stand lower chances of getting cancer.
3. Vitamin C
L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is an essential nutrient yet our bodies cannot produce it. You therefore have to consume it every now and then in order to reap from its benefits. Cactus fruits are rich in this vitamin which helps the body in the healing process as well as boosting the body's immunity.
4. Weight loss
If you have the plans to lose some weight, you should make this fruit part of your salad. It’s high in fiber which helps you feel fuller for longer. The high water percentage will also help in weight loss and suppressing your appetite.
5. Heart health
The high levels of fiber in the cactus fruit helps in lowering the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) which could lead to blockage of arteries and blood pressure. The Potassium also helps in relaxing the blood vessels and lowering the blood pressure contributing to a healthy heart. In general, the cactus fruit does a great job in keeping the cardiovascular system in check.
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