Bitter melon contains many nutrients, contributing to a long and healthy life.

Bitter melon is nutritious but you should be careful when eating it. (Source: Pixabay)

Bitter melon's reputation stems from the comprehensive health benefits it provides, which are thought to contribute significantly to the long, healthy lives of Okinawans - one of the world's longest-living regions.

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Here, for every 100,000 people, there are 68 people who live to be over 100 years old. This rate in other developed countries is 10-20 people per 100,000 people.

In Okinawa, there is a popular saying, “Nuchi gusui” (Food is medicine for life). Bitter melon is a testament to this philosophy. It is the main ingredient in goya chanpuru, a stir-fried dish that combines bitter melon with tofu, pork, and eggs.

Here are some uses of bitter melon:

Rich in nutrients

According to Heatlh , bitter melon contains many essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B, E, K along with folate and potassium. In particular, this fruit contains a unique compound called momordicin that creates a characteristic bitter taste.

Momordicin not only stimulates digestion but also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, preventing many diseases.

Bitter melon is very high in vitamin C, which is retained after cooking, boosting the immune system and maintaining healthy skin.

Regulate blood sugar

Bitter melon has long been used in traditional medicine to control blood sugar levels. Bitter melon contains polypeptide-P - a compound with insulin-like functions, along with charantin - which has the ability to reduce blood sugar levels.

Therefore, bitter melon is very useful for people with type 2 diabetes or those who want to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Detox and aid digestion

Not only rich in nutrients, bitter melon is also known as a food with detoxifying properties. This food supports liver and gallbladder function, reduces water retention and purifies the blood.

These properties make bitter melon used to help treat skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis.

Who should not eat bitter melon?

Pregnant women are advised not to eat bitter melon. According to WebMD, studies show that compounds in this fruit can cause uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid it to protect the health of the fetus.

People with hypoglycemia or those taking diabetes medication should be cautious. Bitter melon has a hypoglycemic effect, and if combined with diabetes medication or insulin, it can cause excessive hypoglycemia, which is very dangerous.

People with digestive problems such as stomach ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome may experience stomach pain, diarrhea or cramps when eating a lot of bitter melon.

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Note: Article information is for reference only!

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/qua-muop-dang-chua-nhieu-dinh-duong-gop-phan-song-khoe-manh-dai-lau-315010.html