Japanese Superfoods: Goya

OKINAWA HAS BECOME FAMOUS WORLDWIDE AS ONE OF THE AREAS WITH THE MOST CENTENARIANS, AND MUCH ATTENTION IS FOCUSED ON THE OKINAWAN DIET. WHEN THE PREFECTURE SPENDS A DAY IN MAY HONORING A VEGETABLE, IT CLEARLY SUGGESTS THAT THIS IS ONE STAPLE TO WHICH THE LOCALS ATTRIBUTE MUCH OF THEIR WELLBEING.

What It Is

Goya, also known as “bitter melon” or “bitter gourd” in English, is the green, bumpy, cucumber shaped vegetable you will find in abundance in the fresh produce section of any Japanese supermarket. As the English name suggests, it has a very distinct and often acquired taste that can be either loved or loathed. Regardless of the taste preferences, there is no denying the amazing health benefits of this Okinawan classic.

Health Benefits

Goya’s most prominent health benefit is its ability to help in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Goya possesses a phytonutrient, polypeptide-P, which has the ability to lower blood sugar levels in the body. In addition, there is a unique substance found in goya, called charantin, which increases the metabolism of glucose in the body.

Ayurveda (traditional Hindu medicine) and traditional Chinese medicine have long used bitter melon for its blood purifying and detoxifying qualities. The bitter element of goya has a cooling and cleansing effect on the body, which is especially good for the liver, gall bladder, treating kidney stones, and reducing water retention. The blood purifying properties believed to be present in goya can have a positive effect on the skin and reduce conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

In addition, goya stimulates digestion, can regulate bowel movements, aid in weight loss, and has been used in treatments to kill cancer cells. Goya is high in vitamins B, C, E and K as well as folates, while being very low in calories.

How to Use It

One of the biggest challenges with this vegetable can be its palatability! If you find eating goya a challenge, try some of these tips:

• Buy dark green, firm and young goya. These are less bitter.
• Slice lengthwise and remove the inner seeds and rind. These parts are for the very seasoned goya eater! Once seeds and rind are removed, soak or boil in salted water for five to 10 minutes to reduce the bitterness of the melon.
• Add small quantities of goya to stir fries along with lean meats, tofu, egg and other vegetables in order to become accustomed to the strong taste.

Some recommend goya not be eaten by pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 12 or those on certain medications due to its often potent effect on the body. It is important to consult with your health care provider before making any dietary changes.

In Okinawa, the classic goya dish is goya champuru, a stir fry also containing egg and tofu. If you have a juicer at home, another alternative is to get your goya fix through this amazing green detoxifying elixir.

not mine.credit and source: SAVVYTOKYO