15/12/2020
White Bitter Melon/ Bitter Gourd 🤍
Bitter gourd is a rich source of and minerals. It contains iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamins like A and C. It contains twice the calcium of spinach and beta-carotene of broccoli. Various anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are present in bitter gourd.
It also helps in lowering the bad levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. That’s not all. It strengthens the system, improves respiratory health, boosts health and contains anti-ageing properties.
Great for diabetics
Bitter gourd contains polypeptide, an insulin-like compound called and charantin, which has anti-diabetic properties. These components actively help in reducing the blood levels. It also helps to prevent unpredictable spikes and drops in insulin levels by regulating the metabolism and use of sugar the body has consumed. Bitter gourd acts as a hypoglycemic agent. It is rich source of soluble fiber and is low in glycemic index, which helps in lowering the blood sugar level.
Aids digestion
It is an excellent source of dietary fiber. Regular consumption of bitter gourd contributes to relieving constipation and indigestion. It supports gut bacteria, which favours digestion and nutrient absorption..
How to consume bitter gourd
Bitter gourd can be consumed in vegetable form, ,or can be made in smoothie by adding apples and spinach to it. You can also have it as a soup, in the form of baked chips, make parathas from it and turn it into a chutney and pickle.
How to make bitter gourd less bitter:
* Sprinkle salt all over the bitter gourd pieces and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will minimise the bitter taste of the gourd making it more palatable.
* Soak it in tamarind juice for a few minutes.
* Boil equal parts sugar and vinegar. Pour this mixture on bitter gourd and let soak for some time.
*courtesy : hindustantimes.