Are you tired of the same old broccoli and carrot routine? Do you find yourself turning your nose up at any green veggie that comes your way? Well, fear not my fellow picky eaters, because today we are talking about the underdog of vegetables - the bottle gourd! Yes, that's right, the vegetable that even kids won't eat without making a face. But wait, before you run away in terror, hear me out - this vegetable has some serious benefits that make it worth giving a second chance.
Bottle Gourd juice, also known as Lauki juice, is a popular health drink in many parts of the world. It is made from the flesh of the bottle gourd, a vegetable that is widely consumed in South Asian and African countries. Gourd juice is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it offers several health benefits.
Health Benefits of Gourd Juice
Promotes Weight Loss: Gourd juice is low in calories and high in fibre, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight. Drinking gourd juice regularly can help you feel full for longer periods and prevent overeating.
Improves Digestion: Gourd juice is a natural remedy for digestive problems like constipation, acidity, and indigestion. It is rich in fibre and water, which helps in the smooth functioning of the digestive system.
Boosts Immunity: Gourd juice is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and fight infections. It also contains antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and carotenoids that protect the body against free radical damage.
Regulates Blood Sugar: Gourd juice has a low glycemic index, which means it can regulate blood sugar levels and prevent sudden spikes and dips. It is an excellent choice for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing it.
Improves Heart Health: Gourd juice is rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and prevent heart disease. It is also a good source of dietary nitrates that improve cardiovascular function.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized bottle gourd
- 1 small piece of ginger
- 1 lemon
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp black salt
- Water
Method
- Peel the bottle gourd and chop it into small pieces.
- Peel the ginger and chop it into small pieces.
- Add the chopped bottle gourd and ginger to a blender along with some water.
- Blend until smooth and strain the mixture using a strainer or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze the juice from one lemon into the mixture.
- Add honey and black salt to taste.
- Mix well and serve chilled.