The Effects of Ampalaya
Ampalaya, or bitter melon, is a plant, the seeds and fruit of which are used in alternative medicine. Ampalaya is given for a variety of reasons, including the treatment of diabetes, psoriasis, stomach ulcers, constipation and kidney stones.
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Function
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Ampalaya aids the production of insulin in the body, which lowers blood sugar levels in some diabetics. Additionally, the bitter acids in the melon aid in digestion, according to the National Bitter Melon Council.
Time Frame
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Ampalaya is generally considered safe for short-term use of three months or less, according to RxList. Its long-term safety is unknown.
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Drug Interactions
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When taken with oral medications that treat diabetes like metformin, ampalaya poses a risk for hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Risks
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The juice from bitter melon has the potential to cause stomach pain, convulsions and diarrhea, according to the Physicians Desktop Reference. The seeds sometimes cause increased hunger and headaches.
Considerations
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The effects of using ampalaya during pregnancy or while nursing are unknown. If you have a history of liver disease or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, it may not be safe for you to use ampalaya as a medicine.
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