Cactus, Cooked with Fat Added – A Low Glycemic Index Food
Are you looking for unique low glycemic index foods to add to your diet? Cooked cactus with added fat might be the perfect addition to your meal plan. This traditional food, commonly known as nopales in Mexican cuisine, offers not only a distinctive flavor but also impressive glycemic properties.
Glycemic Information
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Glycemic Index (GI): 7
Glycemic Load (GL): 0.08
With an extremely low glycemic index of just 7, cooked cactus with added fat ranks among the lowest GI foods available. This makes it an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar levels, including individuals with diabetes or those following a low-glycemic diet.
Nutritional Profile (per 100g serving)
- Calories: 38
- Protein: 1.29g
- Fat: 2.63g
- Carbohydrates: 3.23g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Sugar: 1.12g
- Net Carbs: 1.13g
Why Cooked Cactus is Great for Low-GI Diets
The remarkably low glycemic load of 0.08 means that cooked cactus with added fat will have virtually no impact on blood glucose levels. This is primarily due to its:
- High fiber content (2.1g per serving)
- Very low net carbs (1.13g per serving)
- Healthy fat content that helps slow digestion
Health Benefits Beyond Glycemic Control
Cooked cactus offers more than just blood sugar management benefits. This unique vegetable is also:
- Low in calories (only 38 per 100g serving)
- A good source of dietary fiber
- Rich in antioxidants
- Contains vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium
How to Incorporate Cooked Cactus Into Your Diet
Cactus paddles (nopales) can be:
- Sautéed with olive oil and garlic as a side dish
- Added to scrambled eggs for a nutritious breakfast
- Incorporated into salads for added texture
- Mixed into soups and stews
- Grilled and served with a squeeze of lime
Bottom Line
With its exceptionally low glycemic index and load, cooked cactus with added fat is an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Its impressive nutritional profile, combined with versatility in cooking, makes it a valuable addition to a health-conscious diet.
Remember to prepare cactus properly by removing all spines and cooking thoroughly to achieve the best flavor and texture.