Introduction:    

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.

100 grams of raw bitter melon provides:

• Calories: 21
• Carbs: 4 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Vitamin C: 99% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 44% of the DV
• Folate: 17% of the DV
• Potassium: 8% of the DV
• Zinc: 5% of the DV
• Iron: 4% of the DV

Uses:                                            

Can help reduced 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.

Cancer fighting properties

Research suggests that bitter melon contains certain compounds with cancer fighting properties.   For example, one older test-tube study showed that bitter melon extract was effective at killing cancer cells of the stomach, colon, lung, and nasopharynx – the area located behind the nose at the back of your throat

Reduces 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.

Improves fiber intake

Bitter melon makes an excellent addition to a weight loss diet, as its low in calories yet high in fiber. It contains approximately 2 grams of fiber in each 100-gram serving.

Bitter melon also has laxative properties, which may help to support digestion if you are constipated

Potential side effects:

When enjoyed in moderation, bitter melon can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet.  However, consuming high amounts of bitter melon or taking bitter melon supplements may be associated with several adverse effects.

In particular, bitter melon has been linked to diarrhea and abdominal pain.

It’s also not recommended for women who are pregnant, as its long-term effects on health have not been extensively studied.

Due to its impact on blood sugar, you should consult with your healthcare provider before eating it if you’re taking any blood sugar-lowering medications.

Also, talk with a healthcare professional before supplementing with bitter melon if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications, and be sure to use as directed.

Conclusion:

Bitter melon is a fruit in the gourd family with a unique appearance and flavor. It’s not only rich in several important nutrients but also linked to numerous health benefits, including improved blood sugar control and cholesterol levels.

 People who are pregnant or on certain medications — particularly blood sugar-lowering medications — should speak to their healthcare provider before consuming high amounts or taking supplements.