Spiny Gourd, known as "Kantola" or "Teasel Gourd," is a lesser-known vegetable that has been a part of traditional cuisines and herbal remedies in various cultures for centuries. Native to South Asia, this unique gourd belongs to the cucumber family and offers an array of health benefits. Here are some of its health benefits.
Spiny gourd, scientifically known as Momordica dioica, is a lesser-known but incredibly nutritious vegetable that has been cherished in various culinary traditions and traditional medicine practices for centuries. Often referred to as teasel gourd or kantola, this small, spiky green gourd is packed with essential nutrients and boasts a myriad of health benefits. Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, improve digestion, or manage blood sugar levels, spiny gourd might just be the superfood you need. However, like any food, it's important to be aware of its potential side effects to ensure it's a safe addition to your diet. In this blog, we'll delve into the impressive health benefits of spiny gourd and discuss any possible side effects to help you make an informed decision about including it in your meals.
1. It is a great source of phytonutrients, a substance found in certain plants which are believed to be beneficial to human health and help prevent various diseases. The vegetable is also low in calories as it contains roughly 17 calories per 100 gm. “Kantola is also high in water content, so is beneficial if you are trying to lose weight,” adds nutritionist Seema Singh.
2. As it is usually found during the monsoons, it is helpful in keeping seasonal cough, cold and other allergies at bay, due to its anti-allergen and analgesic properties.
3. It also reduces blood sugar levels in diabetic patients since it is rich in plant insulin. “Anything that is high in fibre and is loaded with water content is a great choice for a diabetic diet, and kantola ticks all the boxes,” says Singh.
4. Carotenoids, like Lutein, present in this vegetable help in prevention of various eye diseases, cardiovascular diseases and even cancers. Being a source of vitamin C, a natural antioxidant, it removes toxic free radicals from the body reducing the chance of cancer.
5. It helps to keep the skin healthy as it contains various flavonoids such as beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthins that act as protective scavengers. “It also has anti-ageing properties as it is blessed with antioxidants that fight free radicals the body has due to ageing and pollution,” says the nutritionist.
6. It is high in fibre and anti-oxidants and thus very useful for easy digestion and eliminates constipation.
All Copyright © 2024 Saturn Worldwide Impex