Bottle gourd during monsoon? Mumbai experts highlight the health benefits

Just like the humble karela, the lauki is ignored on the vegetable cart by most people except those who know the true importance of including them in your diet. If the taste doesn`t give you any motivation, let the health benefits of bottle gourd convince you to consume them during the rainy season. 

Mumbai health experts say the gourd, which is popularly called lauki in Hindi, is not only important for digestion but also aids in other bodily functions during this time of the year.

As monsoon season gets underway, mid-day spoke to Jinal Patel, dietitian at Zynova Shalby hospital in Ghatkopar West, and Ushakiran Sisodia, chief dietitian at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre to highlight the importance of consuming bottle gourd during the monsoon. They not only shed light on its health benefits but also tell you how to make it more interesting for you to consume during this time of the year.

What are the health benefits of bottle gourd?
Patel: Bottle gourd, also known as lauki, dudhi, or sorakaya, is a powerhouse of nutrients and has been used in Indian households and Ayurvedic remedies for centuries. Rich in water content (about 92 per cent), it helps keep the body hydrated and cool, especially during the hot summer months.

Sisodia: Bottle gourd helps cure poor digestion because it is good for those having digestive issues. It is also good for those looking to lose weight and helps diabetics to lower blood sugar levels. The gourd also has cooling effects and improves well-being. From nutrition point of view, it is 92 per cent water and has low proteins making it more beneficial for kidney patients, and those having high blood pressure. The low-calorie and high-fibre content will help in aiding weight loss. The fibre can relieve constipation. The low glycaemic index makes it a suitable vegetable to keep blood sugar levels in range for cardiac patients as it is rich in potassium and antioxidants, really cool for having blood pressure and control cholesterol levels.

Is there any difference in the benefits of bottle gourd as compared to other gourds?
Patel: Low in calories and high in dietary fiber, bottle gourd supports digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes weight loss—making it a favorite among those on a fitness journey. Its high water content also helps in flushing out toxins from the body and supports kidney health.

Due to its alkaline nature, bottle gourd helps in managing acidity and improving overall gut health. Additionally, its mild sedative properties can help reduce stress and promote better sleep.

Lastly, what are the dishes that people can make with bottle gourd to make it interesting?
Patel: Whether cooked as a sabzi, made into soup, or consumed as juice, bottle gourd is a simple yet powerful vegetable that offers multiple health benefits, making it an essential part of a balanced diet.Bottle gourd juice, when consumed in moderation, is known to regulate blood pressure, control cholesterol levels, and support heart health. It is also beneficial for people with diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Sisodia: The many dishes you can make with bottle gourd are dudhi raita, thepla, stuffed paratha, and dudhi halwa with skimmed milk powder. You can even have juice by adding beetroot to it. You can use as side vegetables with main dish and even can be added to dal preparations.

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