The Incredible Health Benefits Of Okra

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), is commonly known as lady’s finger, bamia, bhindi or gumbo. Okra is the tropical and warm climates’ plant, that produces edible green pods. The little and slimy pods are hand picked and prepared in different ways to compliment the traditional dishes of many cultures.

Okra is extremely tasty in its own when cooked in many different cultural dishes for salads, soups and stews, fresh or dried, and fried or boiled. Not only the taste, it also provides a wide range of incredible health benefits.

Let’s get benefited by knowing how to use their rich nutritional value.

Low in Calories

Okra contains only 30 calories per 100 gm with no saturated fats or cholesterol. Therefore, it is recommended as a part of a weight-loss program.

Stabilizes blood sugar

Okra is rich in fiber, which helps normalize the body’s blood sugar level by slowing its absorption from the intestines.

Reduces kidney damage

Almost half of the kidney disease is caused due to diabetes. Researches have proven that okra can help prevent diabetes. This means that it is a preventative food against kidney disease. A study reveals that daily consumption of Okra by diabetic patients, reduces the sign of kidney damage.

Natural Laxative

As it is rich in dietary fiber, it acts as a natural laxative which can help you to naturally get rid of constipation. It contains a thick, gluey substance called mucilage, which lubricates the large intestine and helps with elimination.

Colon health

Fibers clean out the gastrointestinal system. The high dietary fiber of okra, ensures optimal colon health and digestive health and is beneficial for the probiotics found in the gut, that helps maintain the pH balance of your digestive tract.

Rich in Vitamin A and other antioxidants

It contains beta-carotene, lutein and xanthine, which together with vitamin A helps in preserving good vision and has been kept connected to cataract prevention. Okra has also been proven for preventing spots and pimples, making your skin fresh and healthy.

Cancer prevention

Many researches were made and hence proved that due to the abundance of antioxidants and fiber, okra can prevent from cancer, especially the colorectal cancer.

Source of vitamin C

Okra is rich in source of vitamin C and anti-inflammatory, which helps to strengthen the body’s immunity system. Thus, preventing from frequent cough and cold symptoms and also be good for reducing the symptoms of asthma.

Good source of minerals

It contains folic acid and is a good source of minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium and manganese. Folic acid is important in the pre-conception period and during early gestation and ensures that the fetus can grow optimally during pregnancy. Folic acids also help to cleanse your lungs.

Source of Vitamin K

It is a source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and plays a major role in blood clotting.

Content Reviewed by – Asian Hospital Medical Editors

 

Share