Ash gourd, also known as winter melon, wax gourd, white pumpkin, or petha, is a vine-grown vegetable that is used in many cuisines around the world. Not only is it versatile in the kitchen, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. One popular way to consume ash gourd is by juicing it. Here we’ll explore Ash gourd Benefits, uses, potential side effects and recipe for ash gourd juice, and more.
Also Read: Amazing Jackfruit Benefits: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood
What Is Ash Gourd Juice?
Ash gourd juice is derived from the ash gourd vegetable. This nutrient-rich veggie is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B, Vitamin C, iron, and potassium. The juice is typically light green to white in colour, has a mild flavour, and is often mixed with other ingredients like lemon, honey, or herbs to enhance the taste.
Ash gourd juice, a powerhouse of essential nutrients, has been gaining popularity for its myriad health benefits. This low-calorie and high-fiber beverage is not only beneficial for weight loss but also offers a host of other advantages. Here are Ash Gourd benefits that makes it a must-have especially in its juice form.
Ash Gourd Benefits
1. Weight Management
Ash gourd juice can be a valuable addition to your weight management plan, primarily due to its low calorie and fat content. Compared to many other beverages, ash gourd juice is a healthier option as it doesn’t pile on extra calories or fats. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone aiming to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. The caloric value of ash gourd juice is remarkably low. This means that you can consume a reasonable amount without significantly increasing your daily calorie intake.
Additionally, ash gourd juice is virtually fat-free. Consuming high-fat foods can lead to weight gain, especially if you’re consuming more calories than you’re burning. By choosing to drink such as ash gourd juice, you’re opting for a beverage that won’t contribute to high fat intake.
Moreover, ash gourd juice is rich in dietary fibre which is known for its ability to promote a feeling of fullness, which can help curb overeating. When you consume foods or beverages high in fibre, they tend to stay in the stomach longer, slowing down digestion. This prolonged digestive process can help control appetite and reduce the urge to snack between meals, aiding in weight management.
Also Read:Basmati Rice Benefits For Weight Loss: Does It Help?
2. Boosts Digestive Health
Ash gourd juice, with its low calorie, high fibre, and high water contents, can significantly contribute to improved digestion. Regular consumption of this beneficial juice can positively impact your digestive health, promote a healthy body weight, and help prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Being low in calories, ash gourd juice can be included in your diet without the fear of overloading your system with unnecessary calorie intake. This is especially useful for your digestive health as it reduces the stress on your digestive system, making it easier for your body to process the food you consume.
3. Ash Gourd Benefits Liver Health
Research suggests that ash gourds have potential liver-protective properties. Ash gourds are rich in water content and have a cooling effect on the body. This property helps balance the internal tissues of the liver and kidneys, thereby potentially enhancing their functionality.
Furthermore, ash gourds are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can be particularly beneficial for the liver, a vital organ involved in numerous metabolic processes and the detoxification of harmful substances in the body. The anti-inflammatory properties of ash gourd can reduce inflammation in the liver, while its antioxidant properties can combat oxidative stress, a major contributor to liver disease.
Also Read:Make Your Summers Heavenly With Ice Apple Benefits
4. Hydrating Properties
Being rich in water content, ash gourd juice can help keep your body hydrated. Hydration is crucial for maintaining overall health, including skin health, digestion, and energy levels. Foods with high water content can help maintain the body’s fluid balance, which aids in the transportation of nutrients, regulation of body temperature, and production of saliva.
Ash gourd juice aids in digestion and we all know water is essential in the breakdown of food and the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract. By keeping your body hydrated, ash gourd juice supports efficient digestion and nutrient utilization.
5. Cooling Effects
One of the Ash gourd benefits is its cooling effect on the body, which is particularly noticeable when consumed in juice form. The cooling properties of ash gourd juice are primarily due to its high water content, which can make up to 96% of the vegetable’s weight. This makes it incredibly hydrating, helping to regulate body temperature and cool down the system. This hydration is crucial, especially during hot weather or after intense physical activity when the body’s water reserves may be depleted.
Furthermore, ash gourd benefits as a natural coolant because it has anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation often leads to an increase in body temperature. By reducing inflammation, ash gourd juice helps to lower body heat.
Also Read:10 Sugarcane Juice Benefits You Might Not Know About
How to make Ash Gourd juice?
Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of ingredients, along with a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to prepare refreshing Ash gourd juice:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized ash gourd
- 1-2 teaspoons of black salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preparation of Ash Gourd: First, wash the ash gourd thoroughly under running water. Then, cut it into half and scoop out the seeds and fibrous parts from the middle. Once that’s done, peel off the thick outer skin and chop it into small pieces.
- Blending: Take the chopped ash gourd pieces and put them in a blender or juicer. Add the fresh mint leaves to the blender. Blend until you get a smooth mixture.
- Straining: Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the mixture into a large bowl or jug, discarding the pulp.
- Flavouring: To the strained juice, add black salt and roasted cumin powder. Stir well until everything is well combined.
- Serving: You can pour the juice into glasses. If desired, add ice cubes and garnish with a slice of lemon.
Ash gourd juice is a refreshing, nutrient-packed beverage that offers a host of health benefits. From boosting energy levels to promoting better digestion and skin health, this humble vegetable juice certainly deserves a spot in your diet. However, as with any new food or drink, it’s always best to start with small amounts to see how your body reacts and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Also Read:10 Amazing Avocado (Butter Fruit) Benefits For Good Health
Disclaimer:The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. BeatoApp does not claim responsibility for this information .
Dr. Navneet Agarwal is an established and highly skilled Diabetology with over 25 years of experience in Diabetology & Obesity. He is well-regarded for his quality and patient-centered diabetes care. Also, keep track of your blood sugar levels with a Doctors’ approved smart glucometer and elevate your healthcare routine.
