Bitter Gourd: A Bitter Veggie with Sweet Benefits

Bitter gourd is a fruit that belongs to the melon group along with watermelon, cucumber, cantaloupes and many others. Although the bitter taste can turn some people away it provides many health benefits for your body. First of all, it is very low in calories, just 17 calories per 100g. It is rich in vitamins such as C, B1, B2, B3, folate, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, zinc, dietary fiber and iron, powerful antioxidants that prevent the formation of free radicals in the body. It has 2x potassium of banana, 2x calcium of spinach and 2x beta-carotene of broccoli. What makes this melon unique it’s the phyto-constituent called charantin, a compound that has hypoglycaemic effect. Also, it contains polypeptide P, an insulin-like compound that is an insulin replacement for those who suffer from diabetes. It is also loaded with anti-helminthic or anthelmintic compounds that are used for treating gastrointestinal diseases. Bitter-gourd juice kills parasitic-worms that grow in your body and is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Its seeds burn unwanted fat, prevent clogged arteries and protect the heart. It stimulates the digestion of food and relieves problems with constipation. Bitter gourd is also famous for its anti-cancer properties. It’s the two compounds, an a-eleostearic acid and 15, 16- dihydroxy-a-eleostearic acid that prevent the formation of cancerous cells. They are especially important cure for leukemia and some other blood diseases such as anemia. However, it is not allowed to consume more than two ounces of bitter gourd because an excessive consumption can cause some mild abdominal pains or even diarrhea. People with diabetes who take hypoglycaemic medicines should alter the dosage of bitter melon with the dosage of their medicines. Pregnant women should also be careful with the consumption of bitter gourd because its juice can cause stimulation of the uterus and thus lead to preterm labour. Via NDTV