Bitter gourd or Karela or కాకర (in Telugu)

Bitter gourd or Karela or కాకర (in Telugu)

https://ramamohanraocheruku.blogspot.com/2017/11/bittergourd-or-karela-or-in-telugu.html

Bitter gourd or Karela or కాకర (in Telugu) is one vegetable used in the preparation of various dishes. Unfortunately most of us overlook it on account of its bitterness. To tell the truth it has got so many medicinal values. Above all, daily consumption of the squash of bitter gourd is a more powerful health tonic.

The bitter gourd contains nutrients like iron, magnesium and vitamin to potassium and vitamin C. An excellent source of dietary fiber, it also contains twice the calcium of spinach, beta-carotene of broccoli, and the potassium of a banana. Precisely we shall try to know the various crucial contributions of it to human body.

First of all let us know the fact that the regular daily usage of bitter gourd juice is nectar to the human body. Medicines and sincere advices certainly taste bitter but if followed keep the mental and physical strengths intact. To dilute the bitterness of the Karela juice we may add honey, Jaggery juice, or some fruit juice may be added to it. However pure honey is the best. Jaggery juice can be considered as an alternative.

I shall try to bring selective qualities of this vegetable that supports our health.

1. Karela Helps in Maintaining Blood Sugar Levels

The World Health Organisation has estimated that over 382 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes. Bitter gourd contains an insulin-like compound called Polypeptide-p or p-insulin which has been shown to control diabetes naturally. According to a 2011 study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacolgy, a four-week clinical trial showed that 2,000 mg of Karela when taken on regular basis reduced the blood glucose level significantly in the patients suffering from type-2 diabetes. Studies have shown that this plant-based insulin in bitter gourd helps patients with type-1 diabetes as well.  Consult a doctor before doing so.

2. Karela Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels

Bangalore-based Nutritionist, Dr. Anju Sood, says, “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. It is rich in iron and folic acid which are known to decrease the risk of stroke and keep your heart healthy.

3. Karela is good for Glowing Skin and Lustrous Hair

Longing for that flawless skin? Dr. Simran Saini from Fortis Hospital in New Delhi suggests that bitter gourd juice has powerful anti-oxidants along with vitamin A and C which prevent premature skin ageing and diminishes wrinkles. Furthermore, it reduces acne, aids in treating eczema and psoriasis, as well as protects the skin from the harmful UV rays.

4. Karela Cures Hangovers and Cleanses the Liver

Bitter gourd juice swiftly wipes out alcoholic intoxication settled in your liver. The juice cleanses your bowel as well as heals many liver problems. Published in the International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition, a study concluded that a compound called Momordica Charantia provides protection against liver failure by strengthening anti-oxidant activity of the enzymes in the liver. It also boosts the functioning of your bladder.

5. Karela Helps in Weight Loss

Bitter gourd is low in calories, fat and carbohydrates. It keeps you full for longer and hence, it can easily fit in your weight loss plan. In a 2010 issue of a report published in the Journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, concluded that bitter gourd can be viewed as a natural agent for treating obesity.

6. Karela Boosts Your Immune System

In 2010, a study was published in the Pharmaceutical Research Journal which stated that bitter-melon has anti-carcinogen and anti-tumor properties. It reduced the risk of prostate, breast and cervical cancer.

7. Great for Your Eyes

Dr. Anshul Jai Bharat says that it helps in preventing vision-related problems such as cataract since it has compounds like beta-carotene and vitamin A which are healthy for your eyes and strengthens eyesight. She adds, “It is also a good home remedy to treat dark circles.

Source: Srishti Walia - Health and Ayurveda

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