Due to its strong medicinal qualities, bitter melon has traditionally been used by indigenous groups worldwide to help manage diabetes symptoms. More recent studies suggest it could support blood sugar control.

In an earlier study involving 20 adults with diabetes, taking 2,000 mg of bitter melon daily for 12 weeks reduced hemoglobin A1C levels.

Bitter melon is believed to enhance how the body utilizes sugar in tissues and stimulate insulin production — the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar.

Still, current research is limited, and more comprehensive, high-quality studies are needed to understand its full effect on blood sugar in the general population.

Studies indicate that bitter melon may include compounds that help fight cancer.

For instance, one older laboratory study found that bitter melon extract could destroy cancer cells in the stomach, colon, lungs, and nasopharynx — the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

Another lab and animal study observed that bitter melon extract could prevent the growth and spread of breast cancer cells and encourage their death.

However, these studies were conducted using concentrated extracts in a lab setting.

Additional research is needed to confirm how consuming bitter melon in typical food amounts may affect cancer in humans.

One study found that a water-soluble extract from bitter melon significantly lowered LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels compared to a placebo. However, a 2020 study in mice showed no significant effects from bitter melon supplements on cholesterol levels.

More evidence is necessary to confirm whether these effects hold true in humans.

Fiber digests slowly, which helps you feel full longer and may reduce overall appetite.

Additionally, bitter melon has natural laxative effects, which may support digestion and relieve constipation.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bitter-melon#versatile