Consult Super-Specialist Doctors at CARE Hospitals
Updated on 11 October 2023
The bitter gourd, sometimes also called the bitter melon or karela in Hindi, is a vegetable with green skin, white to transparent flesh, and a taste that matches its name. It is extensively consumed all throughout the world, but Asians are its biggest consumers. Although not everyone likes this vegetable, bitter gourd vegetable benefits are numerous. It is a source of most Vitamins, i.e., A, B, C, E, and Zinc, Potassium, and other essential nutrients. It controls blood sugar, boosts the immune system, and guards against parasites, in addition to being a wonderful source of anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic properties.
Before getting on to the Karela bitter gourd benefits, let’s first understand its nutritional value.
Serving of one fresh bitter gourd contains the following:
Nutrients |
Amount (in grams) per 100 gram |
Calories |
21 |
Protein |
1 gram |
Fat |
0 gram |
Carbohydrates |
5 gram |
Sugar |
0 gram |
Cholesterol |
0 gram |
Sodium |
6 milligrams |
Calcium |
18 milligrams |
Iron |
40 milligrams |
Magnesium |
16 milligrams |
Potassium |
275 milligrams |
Sodium |
5 milligrams |
Zinc |
0.74 milligrams |
Copper |
0.032 milligrams |
Manganese |
0.083 milligrams |
Water |
87.45 gl |
Fibre, Total dietary |
2.6 gram |
There are several types of bitter gourd, each varying slightly in appearance and taste. Here are some common types:
Here are some of the properties of bitter gourd:
Here are a few simple recipes on how to use bitter gourd:
Here are the potential side effects of bitter gourd (karela):
Here are the precautions for consuming bitter gourd (karela):
The advantages of bitter gourd, or karela, are numerous due to its vast nutritional reserve. It does not, however, imply that you should have it recklessly or in excess. While consuming it, there are a few things to bear in mind. Before ingesting this vegetable, speak with your doctor if you have any particular medical conditions.
Dr. Ms Sunitha
Sr Dietician
CARE Hospitals, Musheerabad, Hyderabad
Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and people with low blood sugar or liver disease should avoid bitter gourd due to potential effects on blood sugar levels and liver function.
Eating bitter gourd everyday in moderation is generally safe for most people. However, those with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before consuming it regularly.
Bitter gourd may help lower blood pressure due to its beneficial compounds, but people on blood pressure medications should monitor their levels closely and consult a doctor.
Bitter gourd is known for its potential benefits in managing blood sugar levels, improving digestion, boosting immunity, and providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Bitter gourd seeds are edible, but they are often removed before cooking due to their bitter taste and tough texture.
Drinking bitter gourd juice daily is beneficial for some people, especially those looking to manage blood sugar levels or improve digestion. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, so moderation is key.
Bitter gourd may aid in weight loss due to its low calorie content and ability to improve metabolism. Combined with a healthy diet and exercise, it can be part of a weight management plan.
Bitter gourd may help in managing uric acid levels due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Bitter gourd is not recommended for breastfeeding women as it may affect milk production and quality. It's best to avoid it during this period.
Bitter melon is generally safe for kidneys when consumed in moderate amounts. However, people with kidney disease should consult a healthcare provider before including it in their diet.
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