WBitter melon is an edible fruit originally from India and several other Asian countries. It is sometimes referred to as bitter gourd or karela. It grows on a vine and is similar in appearance to wild cucumbers with ridges. Bitter melon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is perhaps most well-known, however, for its insulin-like effects in reducing high blood sugars.
What are the health benefits of bitter melon?
• Bitter melon is a wonderful source of fiber, as well as a wide range of vitamins in minerals. It is low in sodium and cholesterol and is rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium, copper, zinc, and iron. The iron and folic acid from bitter melon help to reduce the risk of stroke. It helps lower dangerous cholesterol levels. Reducing cholesterol significantly reduces heart attack, heart disease, and stroke.
• Lowering blood sugars – Bitter melon has insulin-like action which can drive more glucose into the cell. Insulin is a hormone used to promote the secretion of insulin. Serum blood sugars are lowered in, the long term, thereby reducing hemoglobin AIc levels. Bitter melon is thought to improve the way that sugar is used in your tissues and promotes the secretion of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
• Reduction of respiratory infections – Bitter melon is thought to increase the number of natural killer cells and T helper cells which suggests that it could support immunity and reduce infections. Additionally, flavonoid compounds found in bitter melon help reduce inflammation, prevent tumor growth, and infection.
• Prevents abdominal obesity – There is promising evidence that bitter melon may reduce fat storage by increasing fatty acid oxidation. Investigational studies have suggested that bitter melon may also reduce the proliferation of fat cells responsible for creating adipose cells. By preventing these fat cells from proliferating, unwanted weight gain and adipose deposition may be better controlled.
How to prepare Bitter melon?
Generally, 1000 to 2000 mg of oral supplement has been known to show beneficial effects. Many people have cooked bitter melon in recipes including stir-fry. It may also be squeezed to create juice. The extract or seed may also be purchased in the form of supplements. The step-by-step process include:
• Peel the bitter gourd with the help of a knife.
• Slice the bitter gourd to the center.
• Once you are done slicing, scoop out the white flesh and the seeds of the vegetable. Now, take the bitter gourd and cut them into tiny pieces. Soak the pieces in cold water for about 30 minutes.
• Add bitter gourd pieces to a juicer and add half a teaspoon of salt and lemon juice. Blend the ingredients well till you get a fine consistency.
Self-care tips:
Bitter melon should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. Caution should be taken in people taking anti-diabetic medication, or other medication that alter blood sugars. Additionally, large quantities of the extract may result in gastrointestinal disturbances.
Bitter melon is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. Certain chemicals in bitter melon might harm the pregnancy. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if bitter melon is safe to use when breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Bitter melon seeds might cause severe anemia in people who have G6PD deficiency.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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