Bitter melon (sopropo): health benefits, nutritional value
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The wrinkled bitter melon or sopropo (Momordica charantia) is native to China and India. It is a herbaceous, fast-growing climbing plant of the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae) and is widely cultivated in Suriname, India and Southeast Asia. The bitter melon has an excellent effect on your blood sugar level, which is lowered by it. This has long been known in many Asian countries. The plant has been used in traditional Asian medicine to treat prediabetes and diabetes mellitus. The fruits are harvested unripe and are common in many Asian countries, as well as in some countries in Africa, South America and the Caribbean. You can also enjoy it as a vegetable in many dishes.
What is bitter melon or sopropo?
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Plant from the cucumber family
Nutritional value
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Naturally low in carbohydrates and fats, diced bitter cucumber contains only 16 calories per cup. Bitter cucumber is a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and can make you feel full faster. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins A and C, B vitamins, including folic acid, and flavonoids, such as beta-carotene (which the body can convert into vitamin A) and lutein. Vitamin is needed for normal growth, healthy skin, hair and nails and proper functioning of the eyes and immune system, while vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and collagen for your skin and bones. Bitter melon contains twice as much beta-carotene as broccoli, twice as much calcium as spinach and twice as much potassium as a banana. In addition, bitter melon contains the minerals magnesium, phosphorus, iron, manganese and zinc
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Health benefits of bitter melon
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In addition to being eaten as a vegetable, bitter melon has traditionally been used as a medicinal plant for various indications. It is said to have a beneficial effect on constipation, stomach upset, liver problems and viral infections. Pressed juice from the leaves is used externally, for example against insect bites, sunburn
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In addition to being eaten as a vegetable, bitter melon has traditionally been used as a medicinal plant for various indications. It is said to have a beneficial effect on constipation, stomach upset, liver complaints and viral infections. Pressed juice from the leaves is used externally, for example against insect bites, sunburn