BITTER MELON

Though I may be a melon, bitter am I to taste

unliked by all,  but doctors advice me to be eaten every day

especially those with Diabetes

since I metabolize sugars from carbs faster

for improved glycemic control (blood glucose lowering effect)

Health Benefits

  • Metabolizes sugars from carbohydrates faster, reduces fat storage and leads to  weight loss

  • Lowers blood sugar aiding Type 2 diabetes management.

  • Prevents and reduces symptoms of cancer and the effect of hemorrhoids

  • anti-allergenic, antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiparasitic

   Bitter Melon Juice

  • Slice 1 bitter melon, place in blender. Add ice cubes, water, lemon juice, and honey.
  • Blend until homogeneous; pour through a strainer; fresh juice is ready to drink.

Health warning: Diabetic patients must consult a doctor since juice reduces insulin levels quickly.

Bitter Melon Stir-fry

  • Slice bitter melon in 1/2″slices; remove seeds, rinse and drain.
  •  Peel and chop the onion. Grind with spices and 1/4 cup water in a blender.
  • Coat the melon slices with onion paste. Cook in the microwave. (5 min.)
  • Heat the oil in a frying pan until smoking hot; add mustard seeds; when it splutters and the sound subsides, add cooked bitter melon slices; saute until the pieces turn limp and the oil separates. (3 min.)

 Stir- fry method

  •  Heat 2 tbsp. oil until smoking hot, add the mustard seeds and allow to splutter.
  •  Add the chopped onions and spices;  saute until translucent.
  •  Add the bitter melon slices and saute for 8-10 mins.

Tip: Add  1 tsp. lemon juice or tamarind pulp  to mask the bitterness when cooking stir-fry method.