Blessing AmakaNutritionJanuary 16, 2025
You’re here because you are probably wondering, “Is it good to drink bitter leaf every day?” Truth is, you’re not the only one asking.
That’s why, in this article, we discuss all you need to know about taking bitter leaf water.
Vernonia amygdalina, commonly known as “bitter leaf” because of its distinctive bitter taste, is a popular medicinal plant in Africa, especially Nigeria and Ghana. If you are thinking of taking bitter leaf more often or making it a part of your daily diet because of its nutritional and potential health benefits, you will find the sections that follow helpful.
Bitter leaf water is a natural drink with no artificial additives like preservatives, sweeteners, colours, or flavours. It is high in nutrients. It is rich in:
Also, since it has no standard dosage, it can lead to an overdose, especially when taken with other medications.
The fact is that, “Too much of everything is bad.” This may be applicable in the case of taking bitter leaf water daily.
Although bitter leaf offers many health benefits, moderate consumption is key.
Due to the potent compounds and medicinal properties of bitter leaf, the daily and excessive intake of bitter leaf may lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, anaemia (shortage of blood), and hypoglycaemia.
Furthermore, daily intake of bitter leaf may worsen certain health conditions or interact with some medications. Therefore, it is advised that individuals with certain health conditions or those on medications should consult a doctor before incorporating bitter leaf as part of their daily routine.
Aside from its use in preparing many African dishes, bitter leaf is traditionally used in treating ailments such as malaria, diabetes, cough, rashes, typhoid, and stomach ache.
The leaves, stem, and roots of bitter leaf can be prepared as a drink (tea, juice, or smoothie). This drink is natural with no artificial additives like preservatives, sweeteners and colour.
Follow the steps below to prepare your own bitter leaf juice:
Here are some tips to help you add more bitter leaf into your diet in a way that doesn’t feel like punishment:
We answer other questions about bitter leaves that people also ask.
Bitter leaf exhibits properties that may promote kidney health. Research indicates that bitter leaf extracts may offer protective effects against kidney damage. Thus may be due to
Bitter leaf has anti-diabetic properties, and studies have shown that it can help in blood sugar regulation and reducing insulin resistance.
There is limited research available on the safety of drinking bitter leaf while pregnant or breastfeeding. So, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare professional before consuming bitter leaf water.
The evidence supporting the potential benefits of bitter leaf is promising but still limited. It is advised that bitter leaf should not be used as a conventional treatment for any health condition; instead, use it as a complementary therapy.
It is also important to note that bitter leaf, like most herbal supplements, has no dosage, which means you can overdose on it, especially while taking it with other medications. So if you intend to take bitter leaf daily, you must talk to a doctor to discuss any side effects or interactions this may have if you are on medications.
References
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