What are the benefits of eating bitter melon?

Are you tired of eating the same old vegetables every day? Is your taste bud begging for a change? If yes, then it’s time to introduce bitter melon to your diet. Even though its name suggests bitterness, this exotic vegetable has numerous health benefits that make it all worth it!

What is Bitter Melon?

Before exploring the benefits of bitter melon, let’s first understand what exactly it is. Bitter melon or Momordica charantia is a tropical and subtropical vine belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae.

It looks like a cucumber with bumps on its outer surface and ranges in color from light green to dark green. It has a unique flavor profile ranging from mildly bitter to extremely bitter.

Nutritional Profile

Now that we know what bitter melon is let’s take a look at its nutritional value. The table below shows the nutrients found in 1 cup (94 grams) of raw sliced bitter melon:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 20
Protein 0.9 g
Fat 0g
Carbohydrates 4 g
Dietary Fiber 2 g

Bitter Melons also contain an impressive amount of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Manganese, Magnesium & Potassium.

Now that we know what’s in our plate let’s move onto how this bad boy starts benefiting us

Helps manage Diabetes

If you’re dealing with diabetes then adding just one portion (~50-100g) into your meal can decrease sugar levels as well improve insulin sensitivity by increasing sugar uptake into cells.

A study conducted on Goto-Kakizaki rats (an animal model used for type II diabetes studies), showed Lactin-B —a lectin present abundantly in bitter melon pulp — has an anti-diabetic effect. This lectin can reduce glucose levels similarly to the prescription drug ‘Metformin’.

Provides Relief from Constipation

Bitter melon contains fiber and water that helps regulate bowel movements. The healthy digestive process minimizes constipation-related disorders while removing bloating and cramping.

Also, other compounds such as momordin also play a crucial role in this aspect. ‘Momordica charantia polysaccharide’ (MNCP) significantly increases intestinal activities by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria – improving constipation dramatically.

Promotes Heart Health

Your heart will thank you if you add bitter melon into your nutritional regimen! It is rich with potassium, which works wonders when it comes to maintaining blood pressure levels within normal limits !

Besides this antioxidant called vitamin C again plays a major role when it comes to protecting our arteries from damage due to free radicals.

Potassium + Anti-oxidants = Happy Hearts

Boosts Immune System

Getting sick frequently? Then try adding sun-dried Bitter Melons powder into your diet routine; loaded with Vitamin-C & Carotenoids – these nutrients supercharge your immune system!

Vitamin C present in herbs like this have been known for its strengthening capacities over immune response systems against different types of bacterial complications.

Helps digestion

Have stomach discomforts, nausea or diarrhea often? Ingesting some lightly salted bitermelon juice every morning would be helpful thanks to Charantins therein.

Charantins stimulates digestion powerfully, promoting easier stool evacuation thereby reducing flatulence and dyspepsia occurrence drastically.

## Diuretic Properties

bitter melon assists kidney functions leading to urea generation; thus increasing diuresis thereby eliminating waste and preventing any possible chronic disease affiliated symptoms /conditions including arthritis.

## Weight Loss Support

Perhaps just what you’ve been waiting for! Yes, Bittermelon supports weight loss.

Bitter melon consists of a compound called phytochemicals that have anti-obesity effects. And due to its low-calorie content, it proves to be perfect for consumption during diets.

But Then Why Is It Not Popular?

Now you may ask why despite these amazing benefits is not the talk-of-the-town vegetable? Here’s what I think: Well let’s just say it takes some time getting used to in terms of taste!

The bitterness might make people hesitant – but hey all the good things come with some bittersweet moments right?

Also Considering Its Side Effects?

Yep bitter melons aren’t perfect – and they also come up with-some side effects. mainly: abdominal pain and diarrhea when eaten in excessive amounts; again this is another compound called ‘alkaloid’ causing poisoning if taken without proper care.

Pro Tip: Do watch your intake , especially if you are pregnant or have liver conditions.

Ways To Add Bitter Melon into Your Diet

Are you considering adding bitter melon into your plate but concerned about how to incorporate this unique vegetable into your diet? Worry not!!! Listed below are some delicious ways that will make consuming bitter melon more enjoyable:

  • Stir-fry Slices Of Bitter Melon alongside bell peppers, onions & garlic for a zesty flavored dish (perfect as an accompaniment).

  • Boiled Or Steamed One can stuff boiled or steamed slices of bitter melon with chicken, spices & cheese.

  • Salad-wise Grate tasty veggies like carrots & radish top off squeezed/gently massaged Slice chunks (‘cuz nobody likes slicing their fingers)

Well kids there you have it —the wonderful world of bitermelons. Now its high time stop making excuses and embrace the unconventional tastes mama earth has gifted us 🍈

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