Japan's Okinawa is a famous longevity region, and one of the local secrets to a long life is eating more bitter melon, as well as drinking bitter melon tea and juice. Research by Japanese nutritionists shows that bitter melon is a "comprehensive" longevity food, and drinking bitter melon tea and juice is the healthiest way to consume it for the body.
Method 1: Bitter Melon Tea, Easily Absorbed by the Body
Bitter melon has the effect of preventing and relieving heatstroke, and it is also a great food for lowering blood sugar. The components of bitter melon's flesh and seeds can promote sugar decomposition and inhibit sugar absorption.
Drinking bitter melon tea is the most beneficial consumption method for the body's absorption, as confirmed by modern medical research. It allows 80% of the nutrients in bitter melon to be released and most easily absorbed by the body.
Tip: How to Make Bitter Melon Tea
1. Slice the bitter melon into 1-2 mm thick pieces and dry-fry in a flat-bottomed pan until all the moisture is gone.
2. After drying, the bitter melon will turn brown. Let it cool, then place it in a sealed jar and store it in the refrigerator. It can be preserved for up to 2 months.
3. Steep in hot water before drinking. Drink 3-4 cups daily.
Method 2: More Nutrient-Rich Bitter Melon Juice
The vitamin C in bitter melon can prevent skin aging and lower blood cholesterol. However, vitamin C is not heat-resistant. Although heating does not destroy the other nutritional values of bitter melon, for those who want to use it to prevent skin aging and lower cholesterol, consuming it after heating will not be effective. Therefore, juicing the bitter melon is the best option.