Cactus Pear Popsicle

Who among us doesn’t know the cactus pear? Also known by its Hebrew name, sabra, the cactus pear is a tangy-sweet summer fruit that is delicious and highly recommended for regular consumption. It is an organic fruit that grows without sprays or chemical fertilizers. However, because of its many seeds, excessive consumption of the whole fruit may cause intestinal blockage or constipation, and therefore it should not be eaten in large quantities as is.

A safe and practical alternative is to prepare juice from the fruit, which can then be consumed more freely. The juice should be made by blending the fruit in a food processor and then passing it through a sieve to remove the seeds. The juice can also be poured into small cups, frozen, and enjoyed as a tasty, refreshing, healthy, and inexpensive popsicle. Additionally, cactus pear juice can be mixed with apple or grape juice, resulting in a delicious combination.

Beyond its pleasant taste, the cactus pear offers many important health benefits and nutritional components, a few of which are mentioned below:

Magnesium – The fruit is rich in magnesium, which is essential for proper muscle function. It helps relieve muscle cramps, supports healthy blood pressure, aids in relieving constipation, and contributes to proper heart muscle function.

Antioxidants – the cactus pear contains a high concentration of powerful antioxidants, which help slow oxidative processes (the formation of toxins). In doing so, it delays the oxidation of “bad” cholesterol—the type that accumulates in blood vessel walls and, if left untreated, may lead to blockages and heart attacks.

Vitamin C – The fruit contains a high amount of vitamin C.

Sugar – Despite its sweet taste, cactus pear has been shown to have hypoglycemic properties, meaning it may help balance blood sugar levels. This is good news for diabetics; however, diabetics are advised to consult a healthcare professional and, as always, monitor blood sugar levels after consuming the fruit.

Cholesterol – The fruit contains a high amount of dietary fiber, which helps reduce excess cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to cholesterol and facilitating its removal from the body.