Bitter gourd or (Bitter gourd) in English, it is also known as (Kerilla vegetable) and some countries call it (bitter cucumber) or (bitter melon). It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, and is also related to squash, cucumber, and pumpkin.

It is widely cultivated in Asian countries, due to its preference for a hot and humid climate, in addition to its need for sunlight, and regular abundance of water. But now it is cultivated in South America, the Caribbean, and many scattered regions around the world.

Bitter gourd may not have a sweet taste, which is popular with people. As it is called, it tastes bitter. However, querilla contains many amazing health benefits and nutrients.

Bitter gourd nutritional value

One bitter gourd contains:

• 21 calories.
• 5 grams of carbohydrates.
• 3 grams of fiber.
• 1 gram of protein.
• 6 mg of sodium.
• 0 mg cholesterol.
• 0 grams of sugar.
• 0 grams of fat.

Bitter gourd is also rich in various important vitamins and minerals, such as:

• calcium.
• Iron.
• potassium.
• zinc.
• phosphorous.
• magnesium.
• Folic acid.
• Vitamin C.
• Vitamin A.
• Thiamine (Vitamin B1).
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2).
• Niacin (Vitamin B3).

Health benefits of bitter gourd

Despite its bitter taste, it has many benefits for the health of the body, including the following:

1. A rich source of antioxidants

Bitter gourd is a rich source of antioxidants. Especially because it contains a high percentage of vitamin C, which is an important nutrient, and has a role in protecting the body from diseases, healing wounds, and strengthening bones and the immune system.

In addition to other important nutrients such as vitamin A, which is a vitamin characterized by its ability to dissolve in fats. In addition, querilla vegetables contain folic acid, which is an acid necessary to promote body growth. And many important minerals and vitamins, already mentioned.

These elements combine to make querilla vegetables an excellent example of antioxidants, which in turn protect the body’s cells from damage.

2. Reduce blood sugar

In a study conducted on a group of people with diabetes, they found that eating querilla vegetables on a daily basis proved its efficiency in reducing blood sugar.

In addition to controlling the level of fructosamine (glycoprotein), which is another indication of reducing the level of sugar in the blood in the long term.

It is also believed that eating bitter gourd can enhance the secretion of insulin in the body, which is the hormone responsible for controlling the level of sugar in human blood.

3. Bitter gourd for cancer

Kerala vegetables have anti-cancer properties. A scientific study found that bitter gourd extract is effective in killing cancer cells and preventing their spread, in addition to protecting the body from serious cancerous diseases such as:

• stomach cancer.
• Colon Cancer.
• Lung Cancer.
• breast cancer.
• Nasopharyngeal cancer: The nasopharynx is the area behind the nose at the back of the throat.

4. Bitter gourd for the heart

The accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries may lead to blockage, in addition to forcing the heart muscle to pump blood more than the normal rate, which may cause the possibility of exposure to serious heart diseases.

Numerous scientific studies have found that querilla vegetables can reduce high cholesterol in the arteries and promote overall heart health.

5. Its benefits for the skin

Kerala vegetables contain many minerals such as magnesium, iron, and important vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, making it a rich source for improving skin and hair health as well.

Persistence in eating kerella regularly can help you get a more glowing skin, free of grains and impurities.

6. Stimulate blood circulation

Because querilla contains a high percentage of antioxidants. It helps against many diseases that are related to bad blood. Eating kerala vegetables helps the body purify the blood and improve blood circulation.

7. Its benefits for the eye

Kerala is rich in vitamin A, which is one of the powerful vitamins that has an effect on strengthening vision and improving overall eye health.

8. Boost liver enzymes

Querilla is an ideal friend for the liver. It helps boost liver enzymes and get rid of toxins. Especially toxins from bad habits like drinking alcohol.

Where scientific studies have found that querilla has a role in reducing deposits resulting from drinking alcohol in the liver, as well as in the bladder and intestines.

9. Bitter gourd for the digestive system

Kerala vegetables contain a high percentage of fiber, which in turn helps stimulate bowel movement and facilitate digestion. This leads to no feeling of heaviness, bloating, or acidity after eating querilla vegetables.

Bitter gourd for slimming

Kerala vegetables are low in calories and contain 0% sugar. This makes it an excellent choice for a slimming diet.

Bitter gourd is rich in fiber, which contributes to loss of appetite and a feeling of satiety for a long time. Some scientific research also indicates that bitter gourd has benefits in helping the body burn fat. Especially belly fat.

Bitter gourd damage

Kerala vegetables are rich in countless benefits, but like any other food, excessive consumption may lead to some potential side effects, such as:

• diarrhea.
• vomiting.
• stomach pain.
• Uterine contractions: Therefore, it is not recommended to take qurilla for pregnant women except after consulting a doctor.