Bitter Melon For Type 2 Diabetes
photo credit: roland Many patients with type 2 diabetes seek natural remedies to help improve blood sugar levels. There are many different natural substances that have been linked to improved glycemic control, such as cinnamon, chromium and magnesium. Ancient Chinese medicine has often turned to the bitter melon as a therapy for many chronic health problems, including hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes.
What is Bitter Melon?
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a type of fruit that is found in tropical climates and is commonly used by Asian, Indian, South American and African cultures for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Bittermelon is a commonly used medicinal herb that is also known as bitter cucumber and bitter gourd. This green fruit is related to honeydew, cantaloupe and other melons. It is commonly consumed as whole fruit, tea, juice or supplements. Bitter melon has been used for treatment of many different conditions ranging from stomach upset, kidney stones, infections and diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes and Benefits of Bitter Melon
The flesh and seeds of bitter melon have been studied for its use in the treatment of high blood glucose levels. It is unclear how bitter melon acts to reduce sugar levels but theories suggest that it may increase the transport of sugars into cells by stimulating the release of insulin and that it augments the storage of glucose. Scientists have isolated parts of bitter melon that participate in the metabolism of glucose.
Bitter melon is being carefully researched for its medicinal properties and its action in the metabolism of glucose in laboratory animals. Unfortunately there are very few quality scientific studies that examine the relationship between diabetes and bitter melon and it remains unclear how this reduces readings on your free glucose meter or to use this herb for diabetes treatment.
A small study published in January 2011 compared the effectiveness of bitter melon to metformin and found that bitter melon did produce a reduction in blood glucose level, but that metformin was more effective. In addition, patients were required to take large doses of bitter melon to achieve a reduction in sugar levels. Other small studies conducted in humans showed that bitter melon had no effect on blood sugar levels and showed no reduction in a1c blood test values.
Laboratory studies do indicate that substances found in bitter melon influences the metabolism of glucose within the body. At this time, many studies are being conducted to learn how bitter melon can be used to help diabetic patients but few of these studies are being done in humans. Currently the evidence in human trials is inconclusive and the number of studies are too few to recommend the use of this herb for diabetes. However, the extensive use of bitter melon that dates back to ancient times is encouraging and it is hopeful that future research will find a benefit to the continued use of this supplement for diabetic patients.
Use of Bitter Melon For Type 2 Diabetes
Currently, there are no official recommendations for the use of bitter melon as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Bitter melon can be consumed in recipes, teas and drinks but many patients may discontinue use due to its bitter taste. Patients who are interested in using the natural herb for diabetes should consult their physician prior to starting any supplements and should keep in mind that it is not yet known how much bitter melon is needed to lower blood sugar levels safely. In addition, bittermelon should not be taken by pregnant or lactating women.
Unlike other supplements, like niacin which is known for its unpleasant niacin flush, bitter melon is generally well tolerated by patients with diabetes. Side effects of bitter melon include stomach upset, headache, hemolytic anemia, hypoglycemia and allergic reactions. In addition, bitter melon may interact with certain medications and other herbal supplements.
