Momordica

Momordica charantia is a bitter plant known as bitter melon or bitter gourd. Several types of preparations are available on the market under different brand names (Momordica Hofigal or Pronatura), which may also contain other active ingredients. Always read the package leaflet.

Although there are no studies demonstrating the benefits of bitter melon on patient groups, there are some laboratory experiments and benefits related to the chemical composition of this plant have been reported.

Manufacturers claim that Momordica helps balance carbohydrate metabolism (by helping to normalise blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver and increasing the body's ability to use glucose) and lipid metabolism (by helping to regulate triglycerides and serum cholesterol). Other benefits include gastrointestinal benefits, namely protection of the gastric mucosa, stimulation of the immune system, and well-being.

Momordica Charantia contains 500 mg of dried bitter cucumber powder and 361.40 mg of extract from the fruit and aerial parts. The preparation also contains polyvinylpyrrolidone, extract from Jerusalem artichoke tubers, magnesium, talc, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

According to the manufacturer, Momordica Charantia is a dietary supplement recommended for healthy people prone to high blood sugar levels.

It should be noted that treatment should only be started on the advice of a doctor and that hypoglycaemia may occur, especially in patients receiving antidiabetic treatment, particularly with substances with a high risk of hypoglycaemia.

If you are diabetic, do not stop taking the medication prescribed by your doctor! Momordica Charantia is a dietary supplement and not a medicine. It is important to treat diabetes to prevent complications.

Momordica dosage for adults: The manufacturer recommends 2-6 tablets per day, depending on blood sugar levels or as recommended by your diabetes doctor.

Momordica dosage for children: The manufacturer recommends that Momordica only be given to children over 7 years of age and only on the advice of a diabetes doctor.

Do not stop taking your blood sugar medication during treatment with Momordica!

Due to the risk of hypoglycaemia, it is recommended to take Momordica after main meals.

Momordica is contraindicated during pregnancy, as it has an abortive effect, during breastfeeding or when undergoing fertility treatment. Momordica is also contraindicated in hypoglycaemic patients and children under 7 years of age.

Digestive side effects such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea have been reported with Momordica Hofigal.

Bitter cucumber Momordica is a preparation for which there are no definitive studies proving its exact benefits in the treatment of diabetes. If you wish to try this preparation, do not stop taking the medication prescribed by your diabetes doctor, as without it your disease will progress and you will develop complications (amputation, blindness, cardiovascular disease, stroke, etc.).

Ask your doctor if you can take bitter cucumber Momordica. Keep in mind that there may be an interaction between bitter cucumber Momordica and your treatment, which can lead to hypoglycaemia. For this reason, it is recommended that you monitor your blood sugar levels (more) closely.