Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) Contains Phosphorus (P)
(*) See References and Disclaimer at the bottom of the page.
Nopal cactus (prickly pear) contains phosphorus which is vital for protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism(1*). Phosphorous is needed for proper maturation of bones and for general bone development(2*). This essential element is used to maintain cell membranes (specifically, phospholipid bilayers) and for forming ATP, the substance we use for energy at a cellular level(3*), (4*), (5*), (6*).
The balance between calcium and phosphorous is important to consider. An excess of calcium in the diet makes it harder for the body to absorb phosphorous and people who supplement their diet with large amounts of calcium need to make sure they don't become phosphorous deficient(7*). That said, phosphorous deficiency is considered rare(8*), (9*), (10*).
Sources of Phosphorus
Grains, Legumes, Meat, Milk, Nuts and Nopal Cactus from Natural Home Cures Freeze Dried Nopal Powder Capsules (Prickly Pear).
Source References
(1) Wikipedia: Phosphorus
(2) Dummies.com: Phosphorus
(3) Medline Plus: Phosphorus
(4) Healthline: Phosphorus
(5) PubMed: Phosphorus
(6) HealthAliciousNess: Top 10 Foods Highest in Phosphorus
(7) Fit Day: 9 Foods Rich In Phosphorus
(8) Dietitians of Canada: Phosphorus
(9) LiveStrong: Phosphorus
(10) University of Oregon Linus Pauling Institute: Phosphorus