Prickly pear are increasingly available at fruit stalls and markets where they often come with the prickles having already been dealt with. If you have foraged for one however from a plant, there are simple and easy ways to pick and peel a prickly pear. Like many fruits, prickly pears are a great source of fibre, which is important for digestive health. Fibre, a carbohydrate found in fruits and plants, prevents constipation because it is hard to digest, reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke, improves glucose tolerance and has been found to reduce cholesterol levels. In order for fibre to successfully pass through the intestines, it must be accompanied by water to increase the bulk of fecal waste which, in turn, assists in the removal of toxins.Prickly pears contain four to five grams of fibre which is roughly 20 percent of the recommended daily intake for adults. Additionally, these fruits are known to be a source of antioxidants and to contain carotenoids which help fight free radicles responsible for cell damage.Considering prickly pears are fruits that are low in kilojoules, they are packed with other nutritious elements like magnesium which helps repair and relax muscles; potassium which reduces inflammation and calcium which is responsible for strong teeth and bones. Magnesium and potassium also activate enzymes that metabolise carbohydrate, fat and protein to create energy. They help regulate the heart beat and contribute to nerve and muscle function.Image: Shutterstock