Bitter melon is a vegetable that can be used as both medicine and food. It is rich in vitamins, minerals and active ingredients. Its core functions include lowering blood sugar, anti-oxidation, promoting digestion, regulating blood lipids, etc. Moderate consumption is good for health.

1. Assisting in regulating blood sugar

The polypeptide-P (a plant insulin analogue) and saponins in bitter melon can help improve the efficiency of cell utilization of glucose and slow down the rate of blood sugar rise. Studies have shown that bitter melon extract can inhibit the intestinal absorption of sugar, but it should be noted that it cannot replace hypoglycemic drugs. Diabetic patients should consult a doctor before consumption.

2. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

Bitter melon is rich in vitamin C (84 mg per 100 g) and phenolic compounds, which can scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory ingredients have a certain auxiliary effect on relieving skin inflammation, oral ulcers, etc., and external use of bitter melon juice can also help improve mild acne.

3. Promoting digestive function

The bitter melon extract in bitter melon can stimulate saliva and gastric acid secretion, enhance appetite, accelerate intestinal peristalsis, and relieve constipation. Eating bitter melon in summer can relieve heat and promote the production of body fluids, but people with weak spleen and stomach need to control their intake to avoid diarrhea.

4. Regulate blood lipid metabolism

The dietary fiber and bitter melon glycosides in bitter melon can reduce the intestinal absorption of fat and reduce the level of low-density lipoprotein ("bad cholesterol") in the blood. Animal experiments have shown that mice that have long consumed bitter melon juice have less fat accumulation in their livers, but the effect on humans still needs more research to verify.