Although bitter melon is generally considered safe, it can pose significant risks to certain groups of people.

Pregnant women

Research shows that bitter melon may cause uterine contractions, bleeding, and miscarriage, leading to premature birth. It also has the potential to cause genetic mutations. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid bitter melon, especially during the early stages of pregnancy.

Women who are breastfeeding should also avoid eating bitter melon because it contains mildly toxic compounds that can be passed through breast milk. While these compounds may not harm adults, they can be problematic for infants, so extra caution is needed.

Women during menstruation

Bitter melon is a bitter, cooling food. If consumed in large amounts during menstruation, it may cause blood stagnation, which can trigger or worsen menstrual cramps.

People using insulin or diabetes medication

Bitter melon can enhance the effects of insulin or prescribed medications, potentially lowering blood sugar levels to dangerous extremes.

People with physical weakness

The body can feel particularly weak after prolonged fasting, surgery, or significant blood loss. Bitter melon should be avoided in such situations because it can further reduce blood sugar levels, leading to dizziness or fainting. If you belong to any of these groups, consult your doctor and follow their advice before adding bitter melon to your diet.

People with low blood pressure or a history of hypotension

Those with low blood pressure should avoid excessive consumption of bitter melon. Its natural effect of lowering both blood pressure and blood sugar can seriously endanger people prone to hypotension. Eating too much bitter melon can cause dangerously low blood pressure, hypoglycemia, headaches, dizziness, and fainting.

Side Effects of Bitter Melon

Bitter melon offers many health benefits when eaten in recommended amounts, but it can pose risks when consumed in large quantities or as concentrated supplements.

The most common side effects include digestive issues. For example, drinking bitter melon juice for several days may cause indigestion and diarrhea. The same applies to bitter melon extracts—if taken beyond the recommended dosage, they can cause stomach ulcers and, in extreme cases, severe kidney damage.

How Much Bitter Melon Should You Eat Per Day?

If you plan to add bitter melon to your diet, make sure to consume it only in moderation. Do not exceed 3–15 grams of dried bitter melon powder per day.

If taken as fresh juice, limit intake to 100–200 ml per day. For bitter melon extract, keep the dosage between 100–200 mg, up to three times daily.