Should bitter melon be chosen for its dark or light color

The choice of color depth for bitter gourd depends on its use. Dark bitter gourd has a stronger bitterness and is suitable for clearing heat and reducing fire, while light bitter gourd has a lighter bitterness and is suitable for daily cooking.

Dark colored bitter gourd has a dark green or dark green skin, a tight and firm texture, and a high content of bitter substances. This type of bitter melon contains more abundant bitter melon saponins and quinine substances, which have stronger heat clearing and detoxifying effects, and are suitable for people with a hot constitution or those who need to lower blood sugar. Dark bitter gourd is suitable for cold mixing or juicing, which can maximize the retention of active ingredients, but for those with spleen and stomach deficiency and cold, the consumption should be controlled. Light colored bitter melon is mostly tender melon or a specific variety, with a light green or even yellow green skin and a relatively mild bitterness. This type of bitter gourd has finer dietary fiber and is suitable for home cooked dishes such as stir frying and stewing soup, making it easier for the elderly and children to accept. Light colored bitter gourd has slightly higher vitamin C content, and when cooked with eggs or meat, it can reduce bitterness. The color difference of bitter gourd is mainly related to variety and maturity, rather than quality standards. When choosing, regardless of the depth, fruits with full skin, no depressions, and even tumor like protrusions should be selected. In summer, dark bitter gourd can be preferred as an aid to relieve heat, while light bitter gourd is more suitable for family dietary combinations in spring and autumn. Special groups, such as diabetes patients, can consult a nutritionist to develop a personalized eating plan and make rational use of the nutritional characteristics of balsam pear with different colors.