Acharya Balkrishna, advocate of Ayurveda and natural remedies for health, recently posted on social media a striking observation regarding karela (bitter gourd).

Balkrishna said, “Karela pithri ke upchaar mein rambaan kaam karta hai. Ismein maujood magnesium tatha phosphorus naamak tattva pithri banne se rokte hain. Atah karele ka sevan atyant laabhkari hai.” (Bitter gourd is a miraculous remedy for kidney stones. The magnesium and phosphorus in it prevent formation of stones, hence its consumption is highly beneficial.)

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This is a line that is consistent with the age-old wisdom of Ayurveda, which has known for ages that karela is a superfood that is blessed with amazing health benefits.

Although many are turned off by its bitterness, the sheer number of benefits of eating karela is far greater than its pungent taste.

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of this health powerhouse and how it can revolutionize your well-being.

1. A natural detoxifier

Karela is popular for its detoxifying nature. It aids in the removal of toxins from the body, cleaning the liver, and enhancing digestion. Its high antioxidant content battles free radicals that cause chronic conditions. Taking karela juice early in the morning is the best way to benefit from its detoxification process.

2. Helps in regulating blood sugar levels

One of the best-documented advantages of karela is its potential to control blood sugar levels. Karela is rich in charantin and polypeptide-P, which have insulin-like activity and contribute towards reducing blood sugar. Clinical research has proven that daily consumption of karela can help individuals with diabetes and is an excellent natural food component for a diabetic diet.

#पथरी बनने से रोके #करेला #आचार्यबालकृष्ण #AcharyaBalkrishna #BitterGourd #stone pic.twitter.com/pA09UbZ3vX

— Acharya Balkrishna (@Ach_Balkrishna) April 26, 2024

3. Maintains kidney health

Acharya Balkrishna mentioned that karela can be beneficial for kidney well-being. Phosphorus and magnesium in bitter gourd stop the formation of kidney stones. It also detoxifies, thus keeping the kidneys in top form. Consuming karela juice or serving it with food can be preventive for kidney conditions.

4. Strengthens immunity

Karela is rich in vitamin C, which fortifies the immune system. It also has antibacterial and antiviral content, which protects the body from infections. During the changing of seasons, eating karela can give an added boost of protection against flu, colds, and other infections.

5. Helps in weight loss

If you are looking to lose that extra weight, karela can be your best friend. It is fiber-rich and low in calories, which makes you feel full for a longer duration and avoids unwanted cravings. Also, it promotes metabolism and inhibits fat accumulation in the body.

6. Boosts skin health

Its rich antioxidant content is responsible for cleansing the blood and resulting in brighter skin. It aids in alleviating acne, spots, and skin infections. The vitamins and minerals in it also decelerate the signs of aging by diminishing wrinkles and fine lines.

7. Promotes healthy hair

Having dandruff or hair loss? Karela juice to the rescue. It contains all the nutrients the body needs such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc, which build hair roots, slow hair fall, and delay premature graying.

8. Enhances digestion

Karela is a stimulating agent for digestive enzymes, which ensures improved digestion and overall health of the gut. It treats constipation, bloating, and indigestion. In people with digestive disorders, diet inclusion of karela results in visible improvements.

9. Promotes heart health

Its fiber-rich nature of makes it effective in lowering cholesterol, thus preventing heart disease. It also maintains normal blood pressure and prevents the hardening of the arteries due to plaque buildup. Consuming karela in juice or cooked form can improve heart health.

Acharya Balkrishna’s words put into perspective the wisdom of the ages in Ayurveda. The gourd is bitter, perhaps, but its advantage is undoubtedly sweet. If you are trying to control diabetes, enhance digestion, promote kidney well-being, or simply boost overall health, karela can be a simple and natural inclusion in your life.

So go ahead, next time you come across bitter gourd at the market—use this superfood for a better life!

Also Read: Muskmelon: Nature’s powerhouse for health and beauty!