What is the Nutritional Value of Bitter Gourd per 100g and Is Bitter Gourd per 100g Healthy for You?

Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is a tropical and subtropical vine that is native to parts of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. It is a popular ingredient in many dishes due to its unique, bitter taste. In addition to its distinct flavor, bitter gourd is also known for its potential health benefits, which include its high nutrient content and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels.

But just how nutritious is bitter gourd, and is it really healthy for you? Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional value of bitter gourd per 100g and explore some of the potential health benefits and potential drawbacks of consuming this unusual fruit.

Nutritional Value of Bitter Gourd per 100g

One of the main reasons that bitter gourd is considered to be a healthy food is its high nutrient content. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100g of raw bitter gourd contains the following nutrients:

Calories: 17

Protein: 1g

Fat: 0.2g

Carbohydrates: 4g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 2g

Calcium: 17mg

Iron: 0.8mg

Magnesium: 22mg

Phosphorus: 29mg

Potassium: 167mg

Sodium: 4mg

Vitamin C: 29mg

Vitamin B6: 0.1mg

Folate: 14ug

As you can see, bitter gourd is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. It is also a good source of fiber, which can help to keep the digestive system functioning properly.

In terms of micronutrients, bitter gourd is particularly rich in vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is also a good source of vitamin B6, which is important for energy metabolism, and folate, which is important for the proper development of the brain and nervous system.

Overall, the nutritional value of bitter gourd per 100g suggests that it is a relatively healthy food that is low in calories and high in important vitamins and minerals.

Potential Health Benefits of Bitter Gourd

In addition to its high nutrient content, bitter gourd has also been associated with a number of potential health benefits. Here are a few examples:

May Help to Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

One of the most well-known potential health benefits of bitter gourd is its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. Bitter gourd contains a compound called charantin, which has been shown to have a hypoglycemic effect, meaning that it can help to lower blood sugar levels.

This property of bitter gourd may make it particularly useful for people with diabetes, as it may help to reduce the need for insulin or other medications. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the role of bitter gourd in the management of diabetes, and it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.

May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

There is some evidence to suggest that bitter gourd may have anti-cancer properties. A number of studies have found that compounds in bitter gourd, such as momordin and cucurbitacin, may have the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the laboratory.