Fond of the bitter Karela? Here are a few more reasons why you should feast on it. Karela/Bitter Gourd/Bitter Melon is a great source of several key nutrients which are essential for your body. Here’s how the Karela keeps you healthy.
Nutritional Content:
As per recommended daily allowance
Vitamin A 48 %
Vitamin C 92 %
Calcium 4%
Iron 5%
Vitamin B-6 40%
Magnesium
Sodium
Potassium
Respiratory Disorders:
Karela is excellent for curing respiratory problems like asthma, cold and coughs. The paste of Bitter Melon along with the paste of tulsi leaves and honey is extremely effective.
Liver Tonic:
Drinking one glass of Bitter Gourd juice daily heals liver problems. Drink for 3 to 4 weeks for best results. This stimulates the liver to secrete bile acids that are essential for metabolizing fat in the body. A 100gm serving of cooked bitter melon contains just 117 calories.
Diabetes:
Bitter Gourd has a certain insulin like protein called Polypeptide P that mimics the action of insulin and lowers blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.
Blood Circulation:
Karela’s antioxidant and antimicrobial properties improve blood circulation and help heal boils, rashes, acne and remove toxins.
Aids Digestion:
Karela is an excellent source of dietary fibre. This helps in relieving constipation and indigestion when taken regularly. Bitter Gourd supports healthy gut bacteria, which favours digestion and nutrient absorption.
Healthy Heart:
Bitter Gourd juice is anti-inflammatory and also helps in lowering the bad cholesterol levels in the body. Thereby, it significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. It also maintains the blood pressure of the body as it is rich in Potassium, which absorbs excessive Sodium in the body. Bitter Gourd is rich in Iron and Folic acid which decreases the risk of stroke and keeps the heart healthy.
Source of Vitamin C and A
Vitamin C builds immunity, helps in bone formation, and wound healing. It also builds collagen and prevents ageing and wrinkle formation.
Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin which is great for skin health and vision.
Remember, eat in season.
Eat regional, local and organic.
