Bitter Gourd and its Benefits

Ampalaya or Bitter gourd in english, is one of the natural herbal cure to control blood sugar in people suffering diabetes. It is widely grown in a tropical to subtropical climate from asia, africa and carribean. This super fruit is believed to be originated from india and was later introduced in parts of asia and africa.

Did you know that Bitter Gourd is a fruit and not a vegetable, Yes! This Bitter fruit may be extremely bitter in taste but is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients.

How Does it helps in maintaining Glucose levels?

Bitter gourd or Bitter melon possess similar insulin- like compound, called Polypeptide-p or P-Insulin. When taken regularly, it can lower significant amount of blood glucose level from a type 2 diabetes patients, However, people that takes hypoglycemic drugs should consult a doctor to alter the dosage of their drugs if they consume bitter gourd on a daily basis.

Benefits of Bitter gourd

1. It maintain blood sugar levels
2. Aids in weight loss
3. Reduces Bad cholesterol level
4. Anti-inflammatory
5. Contains antioxidants
6. It helps to cleanse the liver
7. Boost immunity
8. Natural remedy for puffy eyes
9. Reduces the risk of cancer (breast, prostate and cervical)
10. Strengthens vision

There are many ways to consume Bitter gourd such as serving it as a salad, juice or can be added to a vegetable dish. My father’s favourite is extracting bitter gourd juice and dilute it in a water.

• Extract the 3 medium Bitter gourd in a juice extractor and dilute it in a ½ to 1 cup water, or alternately, add a drops of honey, apple juice or lemon to reduce the bitter taste.

Word of Caution

Excessive consumption of bitter gourd may cause diarrhea and abdominal pain. Pregnant women should avoid drinking bitter gourd juice as it stimulate uterus and may cause premature labor. 30 ml pure bitter gourd juice is the recommended daily intake.

This superfruit carries powerful antioxidants that fights numerous diseases.

Have you tried Bitter gourd yet?
What do you think about this superfruit?

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Images credit to Pixabay

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Source: NDTV Lifestyle

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