As people look for healthy beverages to replace soft drinks, a lot of plant-based drinks are becoming very popular. These tend to be packed with nutrients and be refreshing as well, and they include coconut and watermelon beverages, among others.
They all have their particular value, and each of them is vying for space on retail shelves all across the country. One that has yet to take off but may soon join the ranks of the most esteemed plant-based beverages is cactus water. This is called by other names, such as prickly pear juice, nopalitos and nopales. It is a bountiful source of many nutrients, and we want to discuss some of the benefits here.
Cacti are known for storing water over long periods in dry environments. The cacti of the desert are regarded as singular sources of nutrients among their barren environs.
We are starting to see cactus water catch up to coconut water in popularity now, and it’s worth looking at what makes it so special.
Soluble Fibre Source– Your body can easily digest the fibre present in this beverage, which helps with digestion and prevents numerous diseases.
Source of Minerals and Vitamins– Cactus water is packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus, and your body needs all of those to stay in top condition.
Detoxing Capabilities– Cactus water is home to a form of antioxidants called betalains, and these get rid of toxins from the body and help you feel better all the time.
Blood Sugar Regulation– We have seen evidence to show that cactus water can promote healthy blood sugar levels, and that would make it ideal for people who suffer from diabetes or who are at risk for developing diabetes.
No Gluten– For those who suffer from celiac disease, it’s good to know that this beverage contains no gluten.
Very Little Sugar– A lot of healthy drinks are packed with sugar, making them less healthy than they should be, but cactus water has very little sugar.
Cactus water is derived from a specific kind of cactus, known as a prickly pear cactus. Some call it a superfruit because of how much nutritional value it holds and how many health benefits it provides.
While all those benefits may sound tantalising, you may be wondering what it tastes like. We can attest that it is delicious, and similar in taste to kiwi, with touches of raspberry and watermelon. It’s an earthy flavour, and while it may take some getting used to, you can benefit from its incredible nutritional value right away.
