The Gourd Diet

The bottle gourd is used in the Indian system of traditional medicine known as ayurveda. This native African fruit, which dates back to ancient times, is often used for its weight loss benefits. The gourd is high in iron, vitamin B and vitamin C. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Gourd Definition

The gourd is one of the earliest fruits grown by man. Some examples of gourds are pumpkins, cucumbers and squash. This fruit, which belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, includes more than 700 species of vined plants.

Gourd Diet

The bottle gourd, a type of squash, is often used for losing weight. The gourd is low in fat and calories and high in fiber. The water content of the bottle gourd is 96 percent and it contains many vitamins and minerals. Taking from 3 to 5 oz of its juice on an empty stomach in the morning is said to aid in weight loss by satisfying hunger pangs.

Other Benefits

The bottle gourd has been used in ayurvedic medicine to control other ailments, such as diabetes, gastrointestinal problems, insomnia, urinary disorders and diarrhea. Its juice is also used as a preventative for graying hair and baldness.