Bitter gourd (also known as ampalaya, bitter melon, or karela) is one of the best natural medicines we can try to help us deal with various health-related issues. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins like A and C, iron, magnesium, and potassium and. Aside from these, it also has twice the calcium of spinach and beta-carotene of broccoli. Various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are also present in bitter gourd.
One way of obtaining its numerous health benefits is by drinking bitter gourd juice which contains a train of important nutrients ranging from iron, magnesium, and vitamin to potassium and vitamin C. Below are some crucial benefits of drinking bitter gourd juice.
Helps In Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels
Present in bitter gourd juice is an insulin-like compound called Polypeptide-p or p-insulin which has been shown to control diabetes naturally.
In a 2011 study published in the Journal Ethnopharmacology, results showed that regular intake of 2,000 mg of bitter gourd can help reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type-2 diabetes.
Moreover, in a report issued in the Journal of Chemistry & Biology, pieces of evidence have shown that it can also increase the uptake of glucose and improves glycemic control.
Helps Cure Hangovers And Cleanses The Liver
Sipping some bitter gourd juice can help in wiping out alcohol intoxication settled in a person’s liver. The juice has the ability to cleanse our bowel and heal numerous liver problems.
In a study published in the International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition, researchers have found that bitter gourd has a compound called Momordica Charantia which helps in strengthening the anti-oxidant activity of the enzymes in the liver thus providing protection against liver failure and also boost the functions of the bladder.
Aids In Digestion
Bitter gourd helps relieve indigestion and constipation. It also supports healthy gut bacteria, which favors digestion and nutrient absorption.
Boosts Weight Loss
Consumption of the juice can help us in our weight loss plan. It is low in fat, carbohydrates, and calories. Intake of it can make us full longer, thus avoiding over-eating. It stimulates the liver to secrete bile acids that are essential for metabolizing fat in the body.
May Help Promote Skin Health
Bitter gourd juice is significantly rich in antioxidants including vitamin E and provitamin A which are all essential for healthy skin and wound healing. These help boost one’s skin glow. It has been used traditionally to manage symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and skin ulcers.
How To Make Bitter Gourd Juice
Here’s a simple and quick way to make bitter gourd juice for diabetes at home.
Ingredients:
2-3 fresh unripe bitter gourds
½ lime
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
A pinch of pink Himalayan salt
Preparation:
- Thoroughly wash the bitter gourd and peel its skin. However, if the peel does not bother you, do not peel it.
- Slit the bitter gourds vertically, take out its rind and seeds and then chop them into smaller pieces.
- Soak them in a bowl of water for 10 minutes and add half a teaspoon of salt to the water.
- With the help of a large spoon or sieve, take out the bitter gourd pieces, toss them into a juicer and give it a good spin.
- Pour the juice into a glass; add lime juice, pink Himalayan salt, and turmeric. Stir well before drinking. Consume it every morning.
