Bitter melon — also known as bitter gourd or Momordica charantia — is a tropical vine that belongs to the gourd family and is closely related to zucchini, squash, pumpkin, and cucumber.
It’s cultivated around the world for its edible fruit, which is considered a staple in many types of Asian cuisine.
In addition to its sharp flavor and distinct appearance, bitter melon has been associated with several impressive health benefits.
Here are 6 benefits of bitter melon and its extract.
1.Can Help Reduce Blood Sugar
Thanks to its potent medicinal properties, bitter melon has long been used by indigenous populations around the world to help treat diabetes-related conditions. In recent years, several studies confirmed the fruit’s role in blood-sugar control. Bitter-melon is thought to improve the way that sugar is used in your tissues and promote the secretion of insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood-sugar levels.
2.May Aid Weight Loss
Bitter-melon makes an excellent addition to a weight loss diet, as it’s low in calories yet high in fiber. It contains approximately 2 grams of fiber in each one-cup serving.
Fiber passes through your digestive tract very slowly, helping keep you fuller for longer and reducing hunger and appetite.
Therefore, swapping higher-calorie ingredients with bitter melon could help increase your fiber intake and cut calories to promote weight loss.
Some research also shows that bitter melon can have beneficial effects on fat burning and weight loss.
3.Could Decrease Cholesterol Levels
High levels of cholesterol can cause fatty plaque to build up in your arteries, forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood and increasing your risk of heart disease. Several animal studies found that bitter melon may decrease cholesterol levels to support overall heart health.
4.Liver Tonic
There are several benefits of regularly consuming a liver tonic. A tonic aids in digestion, improves gallbladder function, and lowers fluid retention. Cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, and constipation may be relieved with a bitter melon liver tonic. Drink a bitter melon juice at least once a day to enjoy the benefits. A liver tonic is also aids in weight loss, and may relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel system.
5.Prevents Bone Loss
Vitamins-K and C aid calcium absorption, especially for people suffering from osteoporosis. Bitter melon helps prevent bone fractures caused by low bone mineral density that occurs when there is less calcium in the bones
6.Improved Immunity
The Food Science and Technology journal has covered a study suggesting that bitter melon is a source of many different antioxidants that make it a powerful defense against illnesses in the body. Antioxidants scavenge the body for free radicals and dangerous compounds released during cell metabolism that can cause different illnesses. By adding bitter melon to your diet, you can greatly improve your chances of defending against diseases such as heart attack, kidney damage, and liver failure.
It”s a very powerful fruit, and it is highly recommended that you speak with your doctor or physician before adding it to your diet.
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