Bitter foods often get a bad reputation for their taste, causing many people to shy away from them. However, these bitter foods often offer numerous health benefits that are worth considering....CONTINUE READING
According to MedicalToday, here are some bitter foods that people tend to avoid but are actually beneficial to the body:
1. Bitter melon
The bitter melon, also known as the bitter gourd, is widely used in Asian cooking and medicine. It has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels and boost insulin sensitivity, making it useful for people with diabetes or at risk of getting the disease.
Bitter melon is high in beneficial minerals like vitamin A and C, folate, potassium, and fibre, which contribute to its health advantages.
2. Dark Leafy Greens: Vegetables like kale, arugula, dandelion greens, and mustard greens have a bitter taste due to compounds like glucosinolates.
These compounds have been associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Dark leafy greens are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
3. Cruciferous Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower fall into the cruciferous category. They contain sulfur compounds that give them a bitter taste.
These vegetables are known for their high fiber content, vitamins, and minerals. They are also recognized for their potential in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
4. Citrus Peels: The peels of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain bitter compounds like limonene and flavonoids. These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Incorporating grated orange or lemon peel into dishes or using them as zest can add a bitter kick and provide additional health benefits.
5. Coffee: For many, the bitterness of coffee can be a deterrent. However, coffee contains various bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acid and antioxidants. Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of conditions like Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and certain cancers.
6. Dark Chocolate: Compared to milk chocolate, dark chocolate has a more pronounced bitter taste due to its higher cocoa content.
Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It’s important to choose dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa (70% or higher) to maximize its health benefits…CONTINUE READING>>
