Bitter gourd Momordica charantia is a vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, which is grown in the tropical and subtropical region for edible fruits. It is used as a vegetable that is very beneficial for health. Bitter gourd is the most bitter of all vegetables. The skin is soft and edible. The fruit is usually green in color. Its surface is jagged, triangular and covered with streaks.
Bitter gourd is known by many names depending on region and language. It is a healthy vegetable for health.
Nutrients
Nutrients are found in 1 cup bitter gourd juice (93 g) with 1/2 cup water (118 ml) –
Energy 16 calories
Carbohydrate 3.4 grams
Protein 1.1 grams
Fat 0.2 g
Fiber 2.8 grams
Vitamin C 95% of RDI
Vitamin A 4% of RDI
Zinc 10% of RDI
Potassium 6% of RDI
Iron 5% of RDI
Folate 17% of RDI
Bitter gourd contains high levels of powerful antioxidants and vitamin C, which increase immune cells, ie white blood cells (WBCs). It also has powerful antiviral properties, which stimulates the immune system and builds a strong immune system.
Advantages of bitter gourd
Due to the antioxidant properties of bitter gourd, bitter gourd juice is beneficial in kidney disease. The urinary bladder also benefits from the consumption of bitter gourd.
Drinking a glass of bitter gourd juice daily can help maintain blood sugar (blood sugar) levels properly. Bitter gourd contains an insulin-like compound called P-insulin that helps control diabetes. It is an useful drink for diabetics.
Bitter gourd fights viruses and bacteria and strengthens the body’s immune system. The antioxidants found in it act as powerful defense mechanisms against infection and help fight free-radicals that can cause various types of cancer.
It helps in preventing eye problems like cataracts etc. It contains compounds such as beta-carotene and vitamin A which are beneficial for the eyes and strengthen the eyesight.
Bitter gourd contains more fiber which benefits the intestine. Also helps in improving constipation problem.
It not only reduces intestinal disorders such as constipation, but is equally beneficial for irritable bowel syndrome by helping treat parasites that enter the digestive system.
Bitter gourd also cures many liver (liver) problems. It increases the liver enzymes and reduces the accumulation of alcohol in the liver, which helps in the problem of hangover.
Bitter gourd is low in calories, fat and carbohydrates and hence, it can help in body weight loss. Bitter gourd can be seen as a natural agent for the treatment of obesity.
Antioxidants, vitamin A and vitamin C also have a role in reducing premature wrinkles of the skin. Thus, it contributes to increase the glow of the skin. Vitamin C is involved in the process of making collagen, which is essential for skin elasticity and smoothness.
The antioxidant and antimicrobial ability of bitter gourd is known to remove toxins from the body and thus purify the blood.
Bitter gourd is rich in iron and folic acid which helps in reducing the risk of stroke. Which has a positive effect on the heart.
Bitter gourd juice is also useful in reducing inflammation of the body.
The elements found in bitter gourd- Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Zinc also prove to be very helpful in skin related diseases. It reduces acne in treating eczema and psoriasis, as well as protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Bitter gourd should be included in your diet for itching and other skin diseases.
Till now studies have observed that consuming bitter gourd gives positive results in maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol. It also helps in reducing the level of bad cholesterol in the body, which reduces the risk of heart attack.
Bitter gourd has a fairly good source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium. Potassium absorbs excessive sodium in the body. Which helps in maintaining the blood pressure of the body.
Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, protein increase beauty and shine in hair and relieve hair loss problem. Applying bitter gourd juice on your head regularly can reduce hair fall and make hair stronger.
Its high fiber properties make digestion easier. The antioxidants in bitter gourd juice are also known to stimulate digestive enzymes and promote digestion.
A good source of potassium. Bitter gourd juice is also beneficial for those with high blood pressure.
Disadvantages of bitter bitter gourd
Consumption of bitter gourd juice in excessive amounts can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Sometimes symptoms of headache and fever are also seen.
Excessive consumption of bitter gourd juice can cause stomach pain. Pregnant women should also avoid consuming bitter gourd or its juice, as it may stimulate the uterus and cause labor pain.