Regain the traditional way of eating with the natural, balanced goodness of the Mediterranean diet at home, with the TV off. Cut fat, sugar, and salt but don’t overlook calcium-rich milk. This approach offers one of the most complete foods and stands as a strong ally in fighting obesity.
The goal is to move away from quick fixes and fast food. A lot of people fill up on sodas and fried fare while avoiding vegetables, fruits, fish, and lean meats. In this context, experts emphasize that the Mediterranean pattern remains a reliable blueprint for health, with nutrition authorities and researchers highlighting the role of diverse plant foods and minimally processed proteins as central to a sustainable diet. Manuel Serrano Rios, a respected physician and nutrition figure, notes the importance of integrating balanced meals that support overall wellness while accommodating modern life.
Balanced eating facilitates the reduction of bad cholesterol and supports the rise of good cholesterol. It becomes a powerful partner in achieving healthier body weight. A low-calorie cactus fruit, native to regions like the Canary Islands, contributes to weight management and cardiovascular health. Its fiber and micronutrient profile help regulate appetite and digestion, potentially reducing the risks associated with gastrointestinal and liver concerns as well as inflammatory conditions. Its broad appeal comes from flavor and versatility, making it adaptable to various meals without sacrificing nutrition.
One chef explains, “I mix it with orange juice and it’s delicious.” In coastal Canarian cuisine, prickly pear has a long history of use in drinks and dishes. The fruit is a natural treasure that arrived in the archipelago from the Americas centuries ago. When prepared correctly, the fruit’s flesh delivers a smooth texture and a gentle sweetness, while the peel and seeds can be managed to reduce viscosity. In Canary Island menus, prickly pear juice is a showcase of local flavors and fresh produce, often featured in culinary experiences at notable hotels and dining venues.
full of mucilage
The tuno is rich in mucilage, a viscous soluble fiber that helps guide toxins through the digestive system and supports arterial health. Proper handling is key. The spikes on the skin require care, while the peel and seeds should be removed or processed with juice to reduce the fruit’s thickness. With thoughtful preparation, Ortega’s approach to prickly pear highlights its health benefits and culinary potential, including a refreshing Canarian prickly pear juice that has become a staple in certain gastronomic venues.
Nutritionally, fresh prickly pear flesh contains a notable amount of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and magnesium. A single glass of juice can contribute a meaningful portion of daily fiber needs and vitamin C. This was noted in guidance from tunocanarias.com, which emphasizes the fruit’s role in a balanced diet.
Its mucilage contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is a rich source of antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols, betalains, and carotenoids. The fruit delivers higher levels of potassium, vitamin E, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin K than many common fruits, including bananas and dates. Indian figs surpass them in mineral and vitamin content, making this fruit a powerful nutrient source.
Beyond digestion, the tropical fig offers satiating properties and acts as a prebiotic food that supports a healthy microbiota. A robust gut flora plays a decisive role in protecting against a wide range of diseases, and prickly pear can be a tasty, practical part of that strategy. The fruit can be eaten raw, boiled, or even used in sauces and dressings. It also adds color and brightness to juices, jams, and a wide array of recipes.
Here are 10 amazing benefits of this incredible fruit:
1. Weight management and cholesterol balance
2. Provides vitamins and nutrients that support bone health, oxygen transport in the blood, and hemoglobin maintenance
3. May help protect against ulcers and support large-intestine cleansing
4. Aids in preventing constipation
5. Its metabolic properties support liver health and are used in some contexts to assist with liver conditions
6. Encourages healthy blood flow and helps reduce fat accumulation, contributing to cardiovascular risk reduction
7. Supports bone health due to calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin C
8. Can relieve certain headaches and provide anti-inflammatory relief
9. Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent
10. May contribute to scalp and hair health through nutrient-rich content