This fruit could help lower blood sugar levels

Darielle Britto | Apr 22, 2019, 14:20 IST
Bitter melon, also known as momordica charantia, is one fruit that can help you lower blood sugar levels and manage type 2 diabetes, according to researchers.

The fruit is popularly grown inAsia, the Caribbean, South America and some part in Africa. It can be consumed or used to treat various conditions in a herbal remedy form.Vicine, polypeptide-p and anti-diabetic properties like charantin are the three substances found in bitter melon. All three elements are the main reasons this fruit helps diabetics to heal.The vicine and polypeptide-p have similar properties to insulin. Meanwhile, the charantin has been found to lower blood sugar levels. "These substances either work individually or together to help reduce blood sugar levels," according to researchers.

Bitter melon also contains lectin, which plays a powerful role in lowering blood sugar levels soon after consuming the fruit.Multiple studies have found that bitter lemon can be very effective in treating patients with diabetes. A 2011 study found that2,000mg daily dose of bitter melon drastically reduced blood glucose in type 2 diabetes patients. In 2008, researchers found it helped to improve glucose tolerance. The fruit has also been found to improve glycemic control.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition that is becoming a growing problem around the world. It can cause blood sugar levels to spike to very high and dangerous levels. This generally occurs when the pancreas are unable to produce enough insulin. Our bodies require insulin to control the amount of sugar that is in the blood. High levels of blood sugar can do a lot of damage.

Previous research has also found that people with type 2 diabetes should consume eggs for breakfast. This is because a morning meal high in fat and low in carb can benefit those with the condition to control blood sugar levels throughout the day. "The large blood sugar spike that follows breakfast is due to the combination of pronounced insulin resistance in the morning in people with T2D and because typical Western breakfast foods -- cereal, oatmeal, toast and fruit -- are high in carbohydrates,” Jonathan Little, lead author of the study published in the Journal of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Adding, told a news portal. Adding, "The results of our study suggest potential benefits of altering macronutrient distribution throughout the day so that carbohydrates are restricted at breakfast with a balanced lunch and dinner rather than consuming an even distribution and moderate amount of carbohydrates throughout the day."

Even though medication and certain dietary restrictions are essential to help manage the condition, many people are also watching what they consume and what they choose to eat. Bitter melon can be consumed as a fruit, juice, or a herbal supplement. You can also make a variety of dishes with it. It is also important to cut down on salt,saturated fat, sugar and foods with excess amounts of calories.
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