Momordica charantia, also known as bitter melon or bitter gourd, is a cucumber-shaped vegetable with antioxidant properties.
It is commonly grown across parts of Asia, South America, and Africa, and has long played a role as a traditional medicine or medicinal food in some regions.
Research suggests the nutrients it contains may:
- help manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes
- protect the brain and improve memory in people with Alzheimer’s disease
- have anti-cancer properties
One 130-g cup of cooked bitter melon contains 53 calories and also provides:
- fiber
- calcium
- magnesium
- potassium
- B vitamins
- vitamins K, C, and A
Cocoa powder provides iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese, as well as antioxidants. A cup of cocoa made with milk but no added sugar can make a nutritious treat.
Some studies have suggested that eating dark chocolate with a 70–85% cocoa content might reduce the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
However, the amount of nutrients you can get from eating a reasonable amount of chocolate is unlikely to have significant health benefits.
The American Heart Association recommends eating a little chocolate for enjoyment, but not for its health benefits.