Karela

Written by Slawomir (“Swavak”) Gromadzki, MPH

If you are looking for a natural super food that gives many tremendous health benefits there is one that perfectly fits this description. It is known by various names including Karela or Bitter Melon. Unfortunately, since it is also known for its bitter taste supplementation is the best way to enjoy its benefits. Karela is like a train loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and enzymes. It is an excellent source of dietary fibre. It contains twice the potassium of a banana, two times more calcium than spinach, and twice the Beta-carotene of broccoli. Medical research have proved numerous health benefits of this unique fruit including its ability to boost metabolism and fat burning, improving glucose tolerance, promoting normal glucose and cholesterol levels, strengthening hair and skin, improving digestion, boosting immunity, supporting eye health, liver function and detoxification, enhancing bowel movement and regularity, and slowing the ageing process. Karela is also an excellent source of antioxidant flavonoids such as lutein, zea-xanthin, β-carotene, and α-carotene. It is very high in Folate, Vitamin C, Iron, Magnesium and Potassium. Karela also contains compounds that fight intestinal parasites.

Helps maintain normal blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol & triglyceride levels

Karela contains an insulin-like ingredient called P-insulin which has been shown to be very beneficial in coping with insulin resistance. A 2001 study proved that, „treatment of rats with Karela over a 10-week period returned glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels close to normal.” Regular administration of Karela produced similar results also in various human trials. Because Karela promotes healthy lipid balance and is high in Potassium it also helps maintains normal blood pressure and heart health.

For glowing skin, strong, beautiful hair & detoxification

Karela is rich in powerful Anti-oxidants, including Carotenoids that help prevent premature skin ageing and wrinkles. It also improves skin condition by helping to detoxify the body and supporting healthy liver and kidney function. Various Karela’s nutrients such as Biotin and Zinc promote strong and beautiful hair.

Promotes fat-burning, digestion & regularity

Karela stimulates digestion and bowel movement thus preventing indigestion and constipation. It increases satiety, helping to control appetite. According to a 2010 research publication, Karela was described as a potent fat-burner which also hindered the formation and growth of new fat cells.

Strengthens immune system, eyesight & stamina

Karela helps boost the immune system by stimulating the activity of natural killer cells. It also helps to cope with cough and breathing problems by helping remove the phlegm that accumulates in the respiratory tract. Being rich in antioxidants such as Lutein or Zeaxanthin it also promotes eye health. Regular supplementation with Karela may improve stamina and energy levels.