What are the benefits and effects of drinking bitter melon soaked in water?
Nov 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Bitter melon steeped in water generally has effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, assisting in lowering blood sugar, promoting digestion, nourishing blood and vital energy, and aiding weight loss. Bitter melon is cold in nature and bitter in taste; it has the function of clearing heat and detoxifying. After being steeped in water, the various alkaloids and flavonoid compounds it contains can help eliminate heat toxins in the body, providing some relief for symptoms such as mouth ulcers and constipation caused by internal heat.
Generally speaking, drinking bitter melon soaked in water usually has several health benefits and functions, including clearing heat and detoxifying the body, assisting in lowering blood sugar levels, promoting digestion, nourishing blood and vital energy, and aiding in weight loss. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Clearing Heat and Detoxification: Bitter melon has the function of clearing internal heat and detoxifying the body. Drinking water infused with bitter melon can help eliminate heat toxins within the body and may alleviate symptoms caused by internal heat.
2. Assisting in Lowering Blood Sugar Levels: Bitter melon contains charantin and insulin-like substances that can promote the breakdown and utilization of glucose, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. Drinking bitter melon water may serve as a complementary therapy for diabetic patients, although monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary.
3. Promoting Digestion: Bitter melon is rich in dietary fiber, and drinking water infused with it can stimulate intestinal motility, helping food pass through the digestive tract more efficiently and preventing constipation. Additionally, bitter melon can promote gastric juice secretion, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.
4. Nourishing Blood and Vital Energy: The nutrients in bitter melon can help nourish the body and enhance blood and qi, benefiting the health of the kidneys and spleen. Drinking bitter melon water may help improve overall health by regulating bodily functions.
5. Weight Loss: Bitter melon is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which increases satiety. Drinking bitter melon water may reduce the intake of other foods and promote intestinal motility, facilitating the elimination of waste and toxins from the body.
It is recommended to consume bitter melon water in moderation, avoiding excessive intake. Individuals with a cold constitution, weak spleen and stomach, or general physical weakness should consume it cautiously to avoid potential discomfort caused by overconsumption.
