Gourd is a vegetable that is available in local markets. It is usually a green, light vegetable that is often not liked by people. But it has many natural body ingredients that are rich in nutrients for a common person.
**What is a gourd?
Gourds belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers, pumpkins, and melons. They come in many varieties – some edible (such as gourds and bitter gourds), while others are ornamental. In traditional Indian and Chinese medicine, gourds have been used for centuries to detoxify the body, cool the system, and improve digestion.
**Gourd helps in weight loss:
Many people in this world are worried about their weight and want to lose weight. Gourd is a vegetable that can be called a friend of people who are losing weight. It is low in calories and has a high water content (90%), which usually fills the stomach without adding extra fat. Gourd fiber helps in feeling satisfied for a long time. It should not be eaten as an extra food.
*Tip:
Drinking a glass of fresh gourd juice every morning increases metabolism and helps in reducing fat, which keeps us hydrated and reduces weight.
**Controls heart health and blood sugar levels:
Eating it regularly improves heart health. It contains fiber and potassium which control cholesterol levels and controls blood pressure. It reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL) which protects us from heart disease.
*Blood sugar levels:
Among the most famous varieties, bitter gourd is very good for diabetics. It contains charantin and polypeptide-P natural compounds which mimic insulin and help reduce blood glucose levels. It is a friendly vegetable for diabetics.
**Detoxifies the liver and kidneys:
Gourds are natural detoxifiers. They flush out toxins from the liver and kidneys, cleanse the urinary tract, and promote healthy digestion. Their diuretic properties increase urine flow, helping to prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
Regular consumption of gourd foods or juices supports our body’s natural cleansing process and keeps our internal organs functioning optimally.
**Boosts immunity:
Gourd contains vitamin C, zinc and antioxidants that help strengthen our immune system. These neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. Gourd fights inflammation and protects against the risk of chronic diseases when consumed regularly. It is a vegetable that has a high water content.
**Nutritional value of gourd:
Calories 14 kilocalories
Water 92 grams
Carbohydrates 3.4 grams
Protein 0.6 grams
Fat 0.1 grams
Fiber 0.6 grams
Vitamin C 10 milligrams
Calcium 26 milligrams
Magnesium 11 milligrams
Potassium 150 milligrams
*The main components of gourd are:
Water
Fiber
Vitamin C
Potassium
Calcium Antioxidants
Low in fat and calories
**Helps in digestion:
Gourd is a soft food that is digested very quickly. It is rich in light fiber and helps in controlling bowel movements, removes constipation and keeps our stomach cool.
Be it gourd for hydration, bitter gourd for diabetes, or gourd for mental focus, each type of gourd has some unique properties that contribute to our well-being. Due to its high water content, low calories, rich vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it nourishes your body from within.