With the acceleration of modern life pace, diabetes has become a common chronic disease. For diabetic patients, controlling blood sugar is crucial. However, many patients face difficulties in controlling blood sugar. Recently, an 86-year-old retired traditional Chinese medicine doctor publicly stated that there is a food that can replace metformin and other drugs to help patients better control blood sugar.
This retired traditional Chinese medicine doctor indicated that this food is — bitter melon.
1. Nutritional value of bitter melon
Bitter melon is a low-calorie, high-nutrient, low-sugar food, containing rich nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, iron, etc. Among them, vitamin C can promote insulin secretion, helping to lower blood sugar; vitamin E can protect pancreatic cells from oxidative damage, aiding in the recovery of pancreatic function; calcium and iron can promote bone health and hemoglobin synthesis.
2. Blood sugar-lowering effect of bitter melon
The bitter melon component in bitter melon can inhibit glucose absorption, reduce blood sugar production, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. In addition, the polysaccharides in bitter melon can also increase insulin sensitivity, promote insulin secretion, further lowering blood sugar levels.
3. Preventative effects of bitter melon on complications
Diabetic patients have a higher incidence of complications such as cardiovascular disease, retinopathy, nephropathy, etc. The various active components in bitter melon can protect blood vessels, nerves, retina, and other tissues from damage, prevent the occurrence of complications.
4. How to consume bitter melon
Raw bitter melon salad: Wash and deseed bitter melon, shred it, add appropriate salt, vinegar, minced garlic, and other seasonings, mix well before consumption.
Bitter melon stir-fry with meat: Slice bitter melon, stir-fry with lean meat, add appropriate salt, chicken essence, and other seasonings before consumption.
Bitter melon stew: Stew bitter melon with pork ribs or other meats, add appropriate salt, chicken essence, and other seasonings before consumption.
It is important to note that although bitter melon has good nutritional value and blood sugar-lowering effects, it is not suitable for everyone. Especially those with gastrointestinal diseases or allergies to bitter melon should avoid its consumption. Additionally, when consuming bitter melon, moderation is key to prevent overconsumption.
5. How to choose bitter melon
When choosing bitter melon, the following points should be noted:
Choose fresh bitter melon: Fresh bitter melon has higher nutritional value and better taste.
Choose bitter melon without pesticide residues: When purchasing, choose bitter melon without pesticide residues to ensure food safety and health.
Choose medium-sized bitter melon: Bitter melons that are too small may not be ripe yet, while those that are too large may have aged, affecting taste and nutritional value.
6. Precautions for consuming bitter melon
Avoid overconsumption: Although bitter melon is a nutritious food, excessive consumption may lead to adverse reactions like diarrhea. It is recommended to consume between 100-200 grams per day.
Consider combinations: The pairing of bitter melon with certain foods may affect its nutritional value and taste. For example, bitter melon paired with tofu can promote calcium absorption; bitter melon paired with pork can enhance taste and nutritional value. However, be mindful of combinations with other foods to avoid monotonous consumption.
Diabetics should consume in moderation: Although bitter melon has blood sugar-lowering effects, diabetics should consume it in moderation to avoid excessive intake of sugar leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Also, be cautious of its combined usage with other blood sugar-lowering medications.
In conclusion, bitter melon is a very nutritious and healthy food that, when consumed regularly, can lower blood sugar levels and prevent complications. However, it is important to understand one’s own physical condition and allergies before consumption, choose suitable bitter melon products for moderate consumption, and pay attention to balanced diet and healthy lifestyle along with proper food combinations.
