Bitter Melon Side Effects

Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd, is a fruit with potential health benefits but can have side effects if consumed improperly. Here are some key points regarding bitter melon side effects.

Side Effects: Bitter melon can lead to various side effects, especially when taken in high amounts or in supplement form. These side effects may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, gastric ulcers, irregular rapid heart rate, and hypoglycemia due to excessive lowering of blood glucose levels.

Interactions: Bitter melon may interact with certain medications, particularly antidiabetic drugs or insulin, leading to additive effects and hypoglycemia. It can also affect the way certain drugs work, so it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking bitter melon supplements if you are on regular medications.

Who Should Avoid It: Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, individuals taking antidiabetic medications, and those with specific health conditions like G6PD deficiency should avoid bitter melon due to potential risks and adverse effects.

Dosage: There is no established standard dosage for bitter melon. However, moderate consumption is recommended to avoid side effects. For diabetes, dosages like 50-100 mL once/day or 900 mg of fruit three times daily have been suggested.

Bitter melon can offer health benefits, but caution should be exercised, especially by those in vulnerable groups or taking specific medications, to prevent potential side effects and interactions.