Bitter Gourd Vegetable: Health Benefits, Nutrition Facts per 100 grams, Types, Vitamins, Minerals and Recipes

Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon or Momordica charantia, is a unique vegetable valued for its distinct bitter flavor and numerous health benefits. Widely used in various cuisines, bitter gourd is not only a culinary delight but also a powerhouse of essential nutrients.

Momordica charantia is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean for its edible fruit. Its many varieties differ substantially in the shape and bitterness of the fruit. Wikipedia

Nutrition Facts Per 100 grams -

  • Calories: 17 kcal
  • Protein: 0.84 g
  • Fat: 0.17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3.70 g
  • Fiber: 2.8 g
  • Vitamin C: 84 mg (140% DV)
  • Vitamin A: 471 IU (10% DV)
  • Potassium: 296 mg (8% DV)
  • Iron: 0.43 mg (2% DV)
  • Calcium: 19 mg (2% DV)

Vitamins -

Bitter gourd is notably rich in:

  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin K

Minerals -

It contains essential minerals like:

  • Potassium
  • Iron
  • Calcium
  • Magnesium

Types -

Bitter gourd comes in various forms, including:

  • Indian Bitter Gourd
  • Chinese Bitter Gourd
  • African Bitter Gourd
  • White Bitter Gourd

Health Benefits -

  • Supports blood sugar regulation.
  • Promotes digestion and gut health.
  • Rich in antioxidants, combating oxidative stress.
  • Boosts immunity with vitamin C.
  • Aids in weight management due to low calorie and high fiber content.

Recipes -

Recipe: Bitter Gourd Stir-Fry

  • Ingredients: Bitter gourd, onions, garlic, soy sauce, oil.
  • Instructions: Slice bitter gourd thinly. Stir-fry with onions and garlic until tender. Season with soy sauce.

Caution -

  • Pregnancy: Bitter gourd consumption during pregnancy should be limited, as it may stimulate menstruation or cause contractions.
  • Hypoglycemia: Individuals with low blood sugar levels should monitor intake, as bitter gourd may further lower blood glucose.
  • Allergy: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to bitter gourd.

Englishहिंदी
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