Cactus
A plant with healthy benefits
Cactus is a very popular food in Mexico, Central America, India, North Africa, Australia and Middle East. The edible parts of this vegetable are the leaves or cactus pads, and its fruit is called prickly pear or tuna. Cactus contains only 5 calories per half cup and it provides beta-carotene, iron, vitamins B & C, and calcium. According to the Web page Fruits and Veggies Matter, cactus supplies 8% calcium, 6 % vitamin C, and 4 % vitamin B of the recommended daily value (DV). This vegetable can be consumed raw or cooked and is often added to omelets, eggs, salads and tortillas.
