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Both the nopal cactus (Opuntia spp.) and its fruit (prickly pear) have an interesting nutritional composition since it has been reported that they are rich in phenolic compounds, sugars, betalains, ascorbic acid, and fiber. These compounds are related to functional properties of interest to human health. Fiber is associated with the prevention of various health problems related to the modern lifestyle, such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and obesity. The fiber in nopal green leaves (paddles) is both soluble and insoluble, helping lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels. This chapter reviews the current information on the main species consumed of the Opuntia genus, the different types of fiber that they contain, their chemical composition, the degradation of fiber in the digestive tract, the consumption of nopal fiber, and its effect on diabetes, cardiovascular problems, obesity among other health complications, as well as different technological applications of fiber |
