First let's look at what bitter melon is. Bitter melon is an herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps the body's functions normal. Bitter melon can be found in the countries of Asia, East Africa, and South America.

Why is bitter melon a good choice to eat? Bitter melon has so many benefits because it has twice the beta-carotene than broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, twice the potassium of bananas, and has vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, phosphorus and fiber. Wow! Something simple and delicious as bitter melon! Bitter melon has medicinal uses, as well as having a pleasant taste such as:

• Aids diabetics
• Controls blood sugar levels
• Cures Psoriasis
• Decreases cholesterol
• Fights cancer
• Fights leukemia
• Helps heal infections

So, how does bitter melon work as a treatment for diabetes and help other medical problems?

1. Bitter melon acts as a mediator between the body's cells and insulin that has already been produced by the pancreas, blocking the formation of glucose in the bloodstream and breaking down the barrier that prevents cells from using their own natural insulin.

2. Bitter melon increases production of beta cells by the pancreas, improving the body's ability to produce and release its insulin, increasing the number and activity of insulin receptors.

You're at one of the many Asian grocery stores that carry bitter melon and you want to buy bitter melon. Here's what to look for when purchasing bitter melon:

• For fresh bitter melon, look for the ones that are pale green or yellow. Don't buy the orange ones because they're too old.

You finally bought some bitter melon, and you're a little intimidated by cooking it. Don't sweat it! Here are three easy steps on how to prepare bitter melon so your meals are delicious and healthy:

1. Slice the unpeeled fruit lengthwise
2. Remove the seeds
3. Cut it into thin slices

You have four great ways you can eat bitter melon to ensure that you're getting the proper nutrition:

1. Boiled
2. Capsules
3. Tablets
4. Tea

Okay, so you're no longer intimidated by cooking bitter melon, and you're willing to make healthy and delicious meals. Congratulations! Here's just a few ways of how you can incorporate bitter melon into main course meals:

The Main Course
Bitter Melon Curried in Mustard Sauce
Bitter Melon Soup in Sparerib Broth
Bitter Melon Stir-fry
Bitter Melon Tea
Bitter Melon with Lentils
Fried Bitter Melon
Mashed Bitter Melon
Steamed Stuffed Bitter Melon
Stir-fried Lamb with Bitter Melon and Black Beans