The vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium in okra are essential for maintaining strong bones
Okra, also known as lady's finger or gumbo, is a flowering plant native to Africa. It is popularly used in various cuisines around the world, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southern American cuisine. Okra pods are long and slender, typically green in colour, and contain small edible seeds.
Okra is considered a healthy vegetable due to its rich nutritional profile. It is low in calories, high in fiber, and a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have potential health benefits. Read on as we share some benefits of consuming okra and tips to help incorporate it into your diet.
10 Benefits of consuming Okra:
1. Rich in nutrients
Okra is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which support overall health and vitality.
Okra can offer you several essential nutrients
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2. Supports digestion
Okra is high in fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation. It also supports a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
3. Lowers cholesterol levels
The fiber content in okra helps reduce cholesterol absorption, lowering the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular health.
4. Manages blood sugar levels
Okra contains compounds like polyphenols and fiber that help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
Also read:Diabetes Diet: Can Okra (Lady Finger) Help You Control Blood Sugar Levels? Here's The Answer
5. Boosts immune system
Okra is abundant in vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and helps protect against illnesses and infections.
6. Supports weight loss
Okra's high fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, prevents overeating, and aids in weight management.
7. Enhances vision
Okra is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision. Consuming okra regularly may help prevent age-related macular degeneration and maintain healthy eyesight.
Okra can help boost eye sight
Photo Credit: iStock
8. Anti-inflammatory properties
Okra contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and associated chronic diseases, such as arthritis or heart disease.
9. Supports bone health
The vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium in okra are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
10. Improves skin health
The antioxidants in okra, including vitamins A and C, help combat free radicals, improve skin texture, and promote a healthy complexion. They may also aid in the prevention of premature ageing and wrinkles.
Also read:Skincare Tips: Should You Add Ghee To Your Skincare Routine? Here's Why & How
To add okra to your diet, here are a few ways you can prepare and consume it:
- Cut the okra into small slices and cook it in a little oil with your choice of spices and seasonings. This method helps retain its nutrients.
- Cut the okra lengthwise, toss it in olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and roast or grill until tender. This method enhances its natural flavours.
- Okra works well in curries and stews, adding a unique texture and flavour. It pairs well with various vegetables and proteins.
- Okra can be pickled similarly to cucumbers or other vegetables. It can be enjoyed as a tangy and crunchy snack.
Add it to vegetable or meat-based soups to increase their nutritional value.
Remember to cook okra properly to retain its nutritional benefits. Overcooking may make it slimy. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can be a great way to enjoy a healthy and versatile vegetable.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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FAQs
Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that help reduce the risk of serious health conditions like cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Okra is also a good source of: Magnesium. Folate.
What does eating okra everyday do for you? ›
Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that help reduce the risk of serious health conditions like cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Okra is also a good source of: Magnesium. Folate.
What does okra do for women's health? ›
Okra is a nutritious food with many health benefits. It's rich in magnesium, folate, fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, K1, and A. Okra may benefit pregnant women, heart health, and blood sugar control. It may even have anticancer properties.
Does okra detox your body? ›
“Okra isn't some kind of miracle detox food,” she said. For instance, you can drink plain water and eat a variety of fiber-rich foods. High-fiber foods include things like: Fruits.
Does okra clean the liver? ›
Liver health also gets a boost from okra. Again, antioxidants in okra are the major force because they help the body get rid of toxins that are harmful to the liver. Moreover, antioxidants act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents that combat liver inflammation, thereby tremendously enhancing general liver function.
What are the side effects of eating okra everyday? ›
Eating too much okra can adversely affect some people. Gastrointestinal problems: Okra contains fructans, which is a type of carbohydrate. Fructans can cause diarrhea, gas, cramping, and bloating in people with existing bowel problems. Kidney stones: Okra is high in oxalates.
What is the healthiest way to eat okra? ›
Roast okra is a healthy snack alternative to the fried version, although it does have quite a few uses in the kitchen! Turn it into a variety of other dishes like stuffed peppers, gumbo or even Spanish rice to add a nice roasted flavor. Most commonly though, they're great as a starter, side or delicious snack!
Is okra good for hair? ›
Shiny Hair: The mucilage found in okra acts as a natural conditioner, making your hair soft and shiny. It can also help detangle hair, making it more manageable. Dandruff Control: Okra can alleviate scalp issues like dandruff and itchiness. It soothes the scalp and promotes a healthy environment for hair growth.
What does okra do for your gut? ›
Digestive system: Okra is very good for the digestive system, can help improve the function of the digestive system. In fact, the sticky mucilage in okra is made up of polysaccharides such as collagen and mucopolysaccharides that improve the feeding of beneficial microorganisms in the gut.
What does drinking okra water before bed do? ›
Okra water is an infused beverage made by soaking okra pods in water overnight. The drink is thought to offer health benefits like reducing blood sugar levels, supporting weight loss, and improving digestion.
Nearly half of the fiber in okra is soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Insoluble fiber, also found in okra, helps keep the intestinal tract healthy, can help relieve constipation and may decrease the risk of colon cancer.
What does okra do to your skin? ›
Okra is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, magnesium and many anti-oxidants. This anti-aging face pack is meant to reduce acne scars, freckles and wrinkles from your skin.
Is the slime in okra good for you? ›
The thing some people dislike about okra—the slime—is part of what makes it good for you, too. The gel-like substance is rich in soluble fiber, known for its potential to lower blood cholesterol and be fermented in the gut. This promotes the growth of healthy bacteria that helps break down food and synthesize vitamins.
What are the hidden benefits of okra? ›
Okra contains beneficial antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Its disease-fighting nutrients promote heart health, blood sugar management and better digestion. Okra also boosts bone health due to its calcium and vitamin K content.
Is okra good for eyesight? ›
Okra is not only a delicious and versatile vegetable but also a powerhouse of nutrients that support eye health. Its rich content of vitamins A, C, and E, along with lutein and zeaxanthin, makes it an excellent choice for maintaining good vision and preventing eye-related diseases.
Is it better to eat okra or drink okra water? ›
While there's very little research on this drink, okra itself is highly nutritious and rich in antioxidants. Okra water may also offer several other health benefits, including promoting weight loss and blood sugar management.
Does okra clean the stomach? ›
Okra's insoluble fiber helps keep your digestive system in great shape and lubricates the large intestine. The fiber in okra also feeds the good bacteria in your gut, which promotes a healthy intestinal tract. That ultimately leads to less cramping, bloating and other unpleasant stomach problems.
Is okra good for weight loss? ›
Okra can be a beneficial addition to a weight-loss diet due to several reasons. Firstly, it is a low-calorie vegetable, with approximately 33 calories per 100g serving of raw okra, making it a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake while still enjoying a nutrient-rich food.
Is eating okra good for skin? ›
Regular consumption of okra can help maintain youthful and supple skin. Clear Skin: Okra contains vitamin A, which is essential for skin health. It can help prevent acne and reduce the appearance of blemishes, giving you clearer and smoother skin.
Is okra good for hair growth? ›
Applying okra jelly to your hair gives it instant shine and softness whilst also helping to strengthen it. Okra is rich in vitamins A, C, and K and has calcium, potassium, and lots of other nutrients that are great for hair growth, moisturising a dry scalp, and getting rid of dandruff.
