In addition, prickly pear has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels in rats with type 2 diabetes ( 24, 25). In fact, some animal research supports these claims ( 7).Ĭactus water is sometimes touted as a hangover cure, and some animal studies have shown that prickly pear reduces liver damage caused by alcohol and other liver toxins ( 20, 21, 22, 23). Prickly pear cactus has long been used as a natural treatment for conditions like type 2 diabetes, constipation, pain, and even hangovers. In addition, several rat studies have noted that prickly pear extract speeds wound healing and kills harmful bacteria ( 16, 17, 18).įurthermore, prickly pear extract may help diminish the appearance of scars ( 19). Prickly pear also has some benefits for the skin.Īccording to some animal and test-tube research, applying prickly pear extract directly to the skin helps reduce damage caused by excessive sun exposure ( 12, 13, 14, 15). However, these benefits have not been observed in humans, and more research is needed. These powerful anti-ulcer effects are thought to be due to the antioxidant betanin ( 4, 11).Ī similar study in rats found a decrease in intestinal damage from UC after supplementing with prickly pear juice ( 11). Some studies have noted that supplementing with prickly pear juice slowed the growth of stomach ulcers in rats. One of the most promising benefits of prickly pear is its potential to help heal stomach ulcers and treat a condition called ulcerative colitis (UC), which is characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine. At high levels, they stress the body and cause chronic inflammation, which can lead to conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease ( 8).įortunately, the antioxidants in prickly pear can neutralize these harmful compounds, and they are also highly anti-inflammatory ( 8, 9).Īs such, drinking cactus water made with antioxidant-rich prickly pear may improve many health parameters.įor example, in a 2-week study in 22 men, supplementing with about two-thirds cup (150 ml) of antioxidant-rich prickly pear juice daily improved post-exercise muscle recovery while decreasing triglycerides, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL (bad) cholesterol ( 10). These powerful compounds can help prevent cellular damage caused by harmful free radical molecules ( 8).įree radicals are unstable compounds that people are exposed to via natural biochemical processes, food, water, and air. Prickly pear cactus contains several antioxidants, such as betanin, betacyanin, and isorhamnetin, which are associated with many health benefits ( 4, 5, 6, 7). The drink also contains magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants.Īnimal and test-tube studies have shown that cactus water has numerous health benefits, although more research is needed to fully understand how it affects humans. SummaryĬactus water is low in sugar and calories, but certain brands may contain added sugar. Yet, many people do not get enough of this mineral ( 3).Īlong with these nutrients, cactus water contains several health-boosting antioxidants found in prickly pear. In addition, magnesium has countless other roles in the body, including supporting immune and bone health and decreasing your risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. However, certain brands contain added sugar, and therefore, more calories.Ĭactus water also contains magnesium and potassium, two minerals that help manage fluid balance, muscle control, and heart function ( 2). One cup (240 ml) of cactus water contains the following ( 1):Īll of the carbs in unsweetened cactus water are in the form of natural sugars found in prickly pear. Because it’s made from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, cactus water contains a small amount of sugar and some nutrients.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |