Bottle gourd, also known as Lauki or Calabash, is a versatile vegetable that is popular for its numerous health benefits. This elongated green vegetable belongs to the gourd family and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One of the key benefits of bottle gourd is its high water content, making it a hydrating and low-calorie vegetable, ideal for weight management.
Moreover, bottle gourd is a good source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B, and minerals such as potassium and iron. These nutrients play a vital role in boosting immunity, improving digestion, and maintaining overall health. For individuals with diabetes, bottle gourd is considered beneficial as it helps in regulating blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index.
Additionally, the benefits of bottle gourd extend to skin health, as the presence of antioxidants helps in rejuvenating the skin and promoting a healthy glow. Whether consumed in the form of vegetable curries, soups, or as a refreshing juice, bottle gourd offers a wide range of uses that can be incorporated into a balanced diet to reap its nutritional advantages. Introducing this humble vegetable into your daily meals can contribute significantly to your well-being.
Nutritional Profile of Bottle Gourd
The nutritional content in 100 grams of Bottle gourd (lauki):
Nutritional component |
Value |
Carbohydrates |
3.39 g |
Proteins |
0.62 g |
Lipids |
0.02 g |
Fibre |
0.5 g |
Iron |
0.2 mg |
Calcium |
26 mg |
Potassium |
150 mg |
Sodium |
2 mg |
Magnesium |
11 mg |
Phosphorus |
13 mg |
Zinc |
0.7 mg |
Copper |
0.026 mg |
Manganese |
0.066 mg |
Selenium |
0.2 μg |
Vitamin C |
10.1 mg |
Riboflavin |
0.022 mg |
Thiamin |
0.029 mg |
Pantothenic acid |
0.152 mg |
Vitamin B6 |
0.04 mg |
Niacin |
0.32 mg |
Folate |
6 μg |
Energy |
14k cal |
Health Benefits of Bottle Gourd
Low Glycemic Index: Bottle gourd has a low glycemic index (GI), which means it does not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a low GI are preferred for individuals with diabetes as they help maintain more stable blood sugar levels.Rich in Nutrients: Bottle gourd is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like vitamins C, K, and B vitamins (especially B6). It also contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, which are important for various bodily functions.
Hydration: Bottle gourd has high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, as it supports various bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.
Digestive Health: Bottle gourd is known for its digestive benefits. It contains dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion by adding bulk to the stool and facilitating smooth bowel movements. Consuming bottle gourd regularly may help prevent constipation and promote a healthy gut.
Weight Management: Due to its low calorie and high water content, bottle gourd can be a good addition to a weight loss or weight management diet. It provides a feeling of fullness without adding many calories, making it a satisfying yet low-calorie option.
Heart Health: Bottle gourd is believed to have heart-healthy properties. It contains compounds like flavonoids and saponins, which may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, its potassium content helps regulate blood pressure levels.
Hydration: Since bottle gourd has high water content, it helps maintain hydration levels in the body, which is essential for overall health and proper functioning of bodily systems.
Rich in Antioxidants: Bottle gourd contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play a crucial role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health.
Skin Health: The vitamin C content in bottle gourd contributes to healthy skin by promoting collagen production and protecting against oxidative damage. Additionally, its hydrating properties may help keep the skin moisturized and prevent dryness.
How to Incorporate in Diet?
Bottle Gourd Salad:
Ingredient |
Quantity |
Instructions |
|---|---|---|
Bottle gourd (peeled and diced) Cucumber, Onion, Tomato |
1 medium-sized (about 500g) |
Peel and dice the bottle gourd into small pieces. Peel and dice the cucumber into small pieces. Dice the tomato into small pieces. Finely chop the onion. Fresh coriander leaves (chopped). |
Lemon juice, Salt, Pepper, Chaat masala, Cumin powder, Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
Drizzle lemon juice over the diced vegetables. Sprinkle salt over the vegetables. Sprinkle black pepper over the vegetables. Sprinkle chaat masala over the vegetables if desired. Sprinkle roasted cumin powder over the vegetables if desired. Drizzle olive oil or any cooking oil over the salad just before serving. |
Bottle Gourd for Better Health
The nutritional content in bottle gourd, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, plays a crucial role in enhancing overall health. Whether consumed in its natural form or as a juice, bottle gourd offers numerous advantages that shouldn't be overlooked. Incorporating bottle gourd into your meals or enjoying its juice can be especially beneficial for individuals managing diabetes due to its low glycemic index.
One key point discussed was the role of bottle gourd in aiding weight loss. With its low calorie and high fiber content, bottle gourd can help you feel full for longer periods, thereby supporting weight management efforts. Additionally, the vegetable's impact on digestion and immunity was underscored, showcasing its versatility in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
This Blog post is an initiative by DiabeSmart, to provide accurate and Nutritionist / Doctor approved information related to Diabetes. DiabeSmart is India's first Food brand designed specifically for Diabetics, that has been clinically tested on Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics to deliver 55% - 70% lower Sugar spikes. DiabeSmart is part of Lo! Foods - India's leading brand for Everyday Functional Health foods.
