Health & Life

“You Don’t Want to Miss This: Familiar Yet Exotic Superfruit, the Ultimate Enemy of Diabetes and Fatty Liver”

With its refreshing sweetness, this fruit is not just a tasty treat but also a powerful ally in the fight against diabetes and fatty liver. It works wonders for your cardiovascular health, making it a true superfood.

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Winter melon, or Benincasa cerifera Savi, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and is a popular ingredient in many Vietnamese households. But it’s also more than that – it’s considered a natural and affordable “medicine” that supports the treatment of various dangerous diseases.

Half a kilogram of winter melon contains approximately 2 grams of protein, 9 grams of carbohydrates, 95 grams of calcium, and other essential nutrients such as fiber, iron, ascorbic acid, and carotene. It plays a crucial role in protecting and improving one’s health. According to traditional medicine, winter melon has a sweet taste, a cold nature, and is non-toxic. It helps strengthen the spleen and stomach, benefits qi (energy flow), and reduces water retention.

Additionally, folk knowledge touts this fruit’s ability to aid in weight loss and combat obesity. Modern medical research has also proven the numerous health benefits of winter melon. Here are 7 uses of winter melon that you may not know about.

Lowers Blood Sugar

Despite its sweet taste, winter melon is considered a beneficial food for diabetics by nutrition experts. Research shows that the abundant vitamin C, potassium, and fiber in winter melon are essential for those with high blood pressure, edema, and kidney disease.

Moreover, winter melon has a low glycemic index (GI-15) and contains propanol diacid and trigonelline, which effectively control the body’s process of converting sugar into fat. This helps prevent fat accumulation and supports weight loss. Scientific studies also indicate that a special type of saponin in winter melon can reduce the absorption of glucose in the blood, stabilize, and prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Notably, saponin also helps control hunger cravings, which is beneficial for those on diets or needing to control their weight.

Winter melon is recommended by nutritionists for people with diabetes.

Detoxifies the Liver

Winter melon is known for its cooling and sweet properties, making it effective in clearing heat and detoxifying the body, especially the liver. When the liver is weak, one may experience fatigue and a significant decline in overall health. Therefore, incorporating detoxifying foods like winter melon can have positive effects and help prevent liver damage and fatty liver.

Aids in Weight Loss

Winter melon is famous for its low heat production and extremely low-fat content, making it a favorite choice for many people trying to lose weight. This is due to the presence of the compound hyterin-caperin in winter melon, which inhibits the conversion of sugar into fat, thereby reducing fat accumulation in the body.

But that’s not all; winter melon is also packed with fiber and essential vitamins like B9, C, E, and A, as well as important minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These components not only support digestion but also help prevent abdominal fat accumulation. Notably, the winter melon’s rind is also rich in vitamins and minerals, so it’s beneficial to consume the fruit when it’s still young to maximize its nutritional value.

Winter melon is known for its low heat production and low-fat content.

Beneficial for the Heart

Winter melon has long been regarded as a “golden food” for cardiovascular health. According to experts, this fruit is not only rich in vitamins B2 and C but also abundant in potassium. Potassium can dilate blood vessels, reducing pressure on the blood vessels and helping prevent cardiovascular risks such as angina and stroke.

Boosts Immunity

Winter melon stands out for its ability to strengthen the immune system due to its rich nutrient content. A medium-sized winter melon can provide approximately 19% of the daily vitamin C requirement. Vitamin C not only inhibits the impact of free radicals but also stimulates white blood cell production, enhancing the immune system’s effectiveness.

Brain Tonic

Winter melon contains a significant amount of iron, which is crucial for producing hemoglobin, necessary for carrying oxygen in the blood to various tissues. About 20% of the oxygen transported in the blood supports brain functions, contributing to the generation of new nerve cells and effectively enhancing brain health.

Winter melon contains a significant amount of iron, vital for hemoglobin production.

Skin Care

For women, winter melon is considered a “miracle” skincare ingredient and is widely used in cosmetics and natural remedies. It helps treat acne, soften, and moisturize the skin. Vitamins A, B, and C, along with anti-aging compounds in winter melon, improve the skin’s radiance, brightness, and firmness. Many women opt for beauty products containing winter melon extracts or choose natural methods such as face masks and winter melon juice for their skincare routines.

Delicious Winter Melon Dishes

Winter melon can be turned into delectable dishes. Here are three simple and easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for cooler weather:

– Winter Melon Ginseng Soup: Winter melon is cooked with rock sugar and pandan leaves, resulting in a mildly sweet and fragrant soup. This is an ideal weight-loss remedy favored by many women.

– Winter Melon Juice: This drink is especially suitable for hot summer days. Adding a splash of lemon juice enhances the flavor and makes it more refreshing.

– Winter Melon Soup: Cooking winter melon with pork ribs, minced lean pork, or shrimp results in a sweet and nutty flavor that appeals to many palates.

Frequently asked questions

Superfruits are fruits that are packed with high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and other nutrients, offering a range of health benefits. They are often exotic, lesser-known fruits that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The focus on superfruits has grown due to their potential to combat chronic diseases and boost overall health.

The article focuses on the mangosteen, a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Mangosteen is hailed as the ‘Queen of Fruits’ and is known for its unique flavor and impressive health benefits. These include its ability to help manage diabetes, improve liver health, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin and weight loss.

Mangosteen has a low glycemic index and is rich in antioxidants, particularly xanthones. These compounds help regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and protect against diabetic complications such as nerve damage and kidney issues.

Mangosteen has hepatoprotective properties, meaning it supports and promotes liver health. Its antioxidants reduce liver inflammation and protect liver cells, helping to prevent and combat conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

While mangosteen is generally considered safe, some people may experience allergic reactions, especially those allergic to other fruits in the same family (Anacardiaceae). Additionally, as with any fruit, overconsumption may contribute to an excessive sugar intake, so moderation is key. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult a doctor before consuming mangosteen supplements.

Fresh mangosteen can be found in Southeast Asian markets and specialty stores. It is also available in canned, frozen, and dried forms, as well as in juices and supplements, which are more widely available in health food stores and online.