Wax gourd, also known as white gourd or winter melon, is a fruit with a rich history of medicinal properties. It is widely grown in Asia, especially in China and India, where it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Recent studies have shown that wax gourd is packed with anti-inflammatory benefits, bone effects, and nutritional values that make it a valuable addition to your diet.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Wax Gourd
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to physical injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation has been linked to many diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Wax gourd contains compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.
One such compound is cucurbitacin B, which is found in abundance in wax gourd. Cucurbitacin B has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for exacerbating inflammation in the body. By reducing cytokine production, cucurbitacin B helps to calm the inflammatory response in the body, reducing the risk of chronic inflammation.
Other compounds found in wax gourd, such as saponins and triterpenoids, have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help to reduce the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which play a crucial role in the development of chronic inflammation.
Wax Gourd and Bone Health
Wax gourd is a rich source of calcium, an essential mineral for bone health. Calcium is necessary for the proper development and maintenance of bones, and a deficiency can lead to brittle bones and osteoporosis. A 100-gram serving of wax gourd contains approximately 26 milligrams of calcium, which is about 3% of the recommended daily intake.
Aside from calcium, wax gourd is also a rich source of potassium and magnesium, two minerals that play a crucial role in bone health. Potassium helps to neutralize acids that can leach calcium from bones, while magnesium is necessary for the absorption of calcium into the bones.
Nutritional Values of Wax Gourd
Wax gourd is a low-calorie fruit, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. A 100-gram serving of wax gourd contains only 16 calories, making it an ideal snack for those watching their calorie intake.
Aside from being low in calories, wax gourd is also rich in fiber, which is essential for digestive health. A 100-gram serving of wax gourd contains approximately 1 gram of fiber, which helps to promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation.
Wax gourd is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. A 100-gram serving contains approximately 8% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. It is also a good source of vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy vision and skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wax gourd is a fruit with a range of health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent addition to an anti-inflammatory diet, while its bone effects make it an ideal food for those looking to maintain healthy bones. Additionally, its low-calorie content and high fiber make it an excellent food for those watching their weight. If you want to reap the benefits of this nutritious fruit, add it to your diet today.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruits section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.