Bitter Melon, commonly known as Bitter Gourd or Karela in Hindi may not be a favourite of one and all, but this wonder veggie offers incredible health benefits. Just ignore that slight bitter taste it may leave on your tongue, and relish the bountiful of antioxidants and nutrients, the Karela has to offer.
Bitter Gourd controls diabetes, boosts immune system and is an excellent source of anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.
Health Benefits of Bitter Gourd
Number 1 Controls Diabetes
The presence of significant levels of charntin (peptides that resemble insulin) and alkaloids in Bitter Gourd function as a vital ingredient in managing diabetes. It tames down the sudden spike in blood sugar levels besides regulating metabolism. It acts as a potent hypoglycaemic agent and rich in soluble fiber, making it an ideal choice of vegetable for diabetics.
Number 2 Blood Purifier
The strong antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Bitter Gourd aids in purification of the blood, that helps in promoting skin health. Bitter gourd is also efficient in curing various skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. Also Regular intake of Bitter Gourd helps in maintaining skin radiance and free from blemishes. The blood purifying properties of Bitter Gourd prevent acne and treats skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis and other skin infections.
Number 3 Boosts Immunity
Bitter Gourd is a powerhouse of antioxidants and it helps in fighting several infections in the body. These antioxidants scout the body for free radicals and other dangerous compounds released during metabolism and destroy them preventing from causing any illness.
Adding Bitter Gourd in your diet enhances your chances of fighting against various diseases, including heart disease, kidney damage and liver problem.
Number 4 Fights Cancer
Almost all parts of the bitter melon plant have anticancer properties that promote immunity. Its extract inhibits cancer cell growth by triggering programmed cell death .
Its seed oil has biologically active fatty acids that interfere with the proliferation of breast and liver cancer cell lines. Also, the whole fruit and skin extract of bitter melon show high efficacy in battling colon cancer .
Bitter gourd extract was found to be selectively toxic to prostate cancer cells in mouse studies. It also regulates the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory proteins in the affected tissue. It slows down the overall growth and migration of cervical, nose and pharynx, and blood cancers as well .
Number 5 Improves Respiratory Health
Numerous studies prove that Bitter Gourd provides relief from respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and rhinitis. It’s anti-histamine, suppressant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and anti-viral properties make it a perfect booster for respiratory health.
Additional Benefits
Protects Cells Against Damage.
Bitter gourd is a good source of gallic acid, catechin, epicatechin and chlorogenic acid. All these powerful antioxidants help to protect the body cells against various damages.
Promotes Eye And Bone Health
An extremely high source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, zinc and potassium, bitter gourd helps disease prevention, bone formation, heals long term wounds and augments eye vision.
Augments Liver Health.
Bitter gourd is a detoxifying agent which makes it quite beneficial for the liver. By cleansing the gastrointestinal tract of body, gut health and overall digestive system is greatly benefited.
Treats Urinary Tract Infections
Diuretic in nature, bitter gourd increases urinating frequency. Through urine, body flushes bad bacteria and toxins that reduces potential risks of urinary tract infections.
Keeps Body Hydrated
Ninety percent of bitter gourd is water. Water helps the body stay hydrated, keeps every body part cool and free of toxins which enhances overall health.
Tips to cook Bitter Gourd:
If you don’t like the super bitterness of the Bitter Gourd, cut into pieces, soak it in thick tamarind water. Cook further adding the same tamarind-soaked water for that bitter and tangy taste.
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