Cactus Pear Popsicle

Who among us doesn't know the cactus pear? The cactus pear, or by its Hebrew name 'sabra', is a tangy-sweet summer fruit, delicious and highly recommended for daily consumption as it is an organic fruit that grows without sprays and chemical fertilizers. However, its numerous seeds can cause intestinal blockages and constipation, so it is not advisable to eat it abundantly as it is. However, juice can be made from it, which can then be consumed freely. Juice should be prepared by blending the fruit in a food processor. The resulting juice should be passed through a sieve to filter out the seeds. The juice can also be poured into small cups, frozen, and enjoyed as a tasty, refreshing, healthy, and inexpensive popsicle. It is also possible to mix the cactus pear juice with apple or grape juice, which is also very tasty.

Beyond its pleasant taste, the cactus pear has many essential benefits and components, and I will mention a few of them.

Magnesium – The fruit is rich in magnesium, which is essential for muscles and thus helps with muscle cramps, blood pressure, constipation, heart muscle function, and more.

Antioxidants - The fruit contains many very strong antioxidants (oxidation – the process of toxin development). In doing so, it delays the oxidation of bad cholesterol (cholesterol that settles in the blood vessel walls and gradually leads, if untreated, to their blockage and heart attacks).

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

Sugar – Despite being sweet, it has been proven to have hypoglycemic properties, meaning it can balance blood sugar levels, making it good news for diabetics. However, in any case, it is recommended that diabetics consult with a healthcare provider and, as always, check their blood sugar levels after consuming the cactus pear.

Cholesterol – Contains a high amount of dietary fiber, thus helping to lower excess cholesterol levels in the blood by absorbing the cholesterol and expelling it from the body.