Bitter melon is widely known as a food that helps manage diabetes, even earning the nickname “natural insulin.” But is it truly safe and effective for people with diabetes?

Q. Is bitter melon really beneficial for diabetes?

A. Yes—but people with kidney issues should be cautious.

Bitter melon can indeed be beneficial for managing diabetes. It contains compounds such as charantin and polypeptide-P (often referred to as plant-based insulin), which act similarly to insulin in the body. These compounds help glucose be used for energy in the liver, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.

In addition, momordicin—the compound responsible for bitter melon’s distinctive taste—may help reduce blood cholesterol and blood pressure, contributing to better cardiovascular health.

Bitter melon is commonly consumed as juice or in powdered form. When purchasing processed products, it’s best to choose ones without added sugar or artificial coloring. You can also boil the fruit and drink it as a tea.

However, people with diabetes who also have kidney disease should avoid bitter melon. It is high in potassium, and those with impaired kidney function may have difficulty excreting excess potassium. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, tingling in the hands and feet, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it may cause arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, or low blood pressure.

Extra caution is needed if you are taking medications that can increase potassium levels, such as captopril, losartan, or telmisartan.

Pregnant women with gestational diabetes should also avoid bitter melon, as it may trigger uterine contractions or bleeding.

Source: 헬스조선 (https://m.health.chosun.com)