Bitter melon prevents pancreatic cancer and diabetes

A study in the US found that bitter melon juice can prevent the growth of pancreatic cancer cells.

Illustration: Internet

Bitter melon (also known as bitter gourd) is a fruit native to Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.

It has been used for thousands of years as a folk remedy and a nutritious food source. It is one of the favorite foods, like cucumbers, watermelon is rich in folate, vitamins A and C, potassium.

Bitter melon is rich in antioxidants, including beta-carotene and lutein. Many researchers believe that its unique combination of nutrients helps fight both cancer and diabetes.

A recent study by the University of Colorado (USA) conducted in vitro and in vivo (living animals) shows the health benefits of bitter melon, in this case the study is related to pancreatic cancer.

Both types of studies have shown that bitter melon extract can inhibit the reproduction of cancer cells. Scientists believe it does this by cutting off the glucose supply to the cancer cells and killing them.

This is great news for patients with pancreatic cancer, which is often not detected until it is advanced, has a very low survival rate and few treatment options. In the US alone, there are approximately 45,220 new cases diagnosed each year and 38,460 deaths.

At the same time, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado and Saint Louis University, bitter melon extract can prevent the growth and death of breast cancer cells. The researcher discovered that bitter melon extract has the ability to modulate some signaling pathways that cause breast cancer cell death. Therefore, this extract can be added to the diet to prevent breast cancer.

With its ability to regulate glucose and insulin in the body, scientists wonder if it is effective for diabetic patients...

The University of Colorado has studied and proven that bitter melon can regulate insulin levels. According to research published in the journal Chemistry and Biology, diabetics who regularly consume bitter melon can better control their blood sugar levels and increase their sensitivity to insulin action - in other words, bitter melon allows the body to use glucose effectively.

According to research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, diabetic patients taking about 2,000mg of bitter melon extract daily can help control blood sugar.

Attention when using

-Do not use for women during pregnancy, because it can cause vaginal bleeding, uterine contractions and miscarriage.

-Do not use with antidiabetic medications or insulin, as it may lower blood sugar to dangerously low levels.

-Some side effects, including atrial fibrillation, stomach ulcers, and allergic reactions

According to VnExpress