10 Ways Okra Can Heal And Benefit Your Body
- Rich in nutrients: Okra is a low-calorie food that’s an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and B6, as well as folate, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions, including immune system health, vision, bone health, and blood pressure control.Opens in a new windowwww.verywellfit.comOkra nutrients
- High in fiber: Okra is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and cholesterol, while insoluble fiber promotes digestive health and prevents constipation.Opens in a new windowwww.semanticscholar.orgOkra fiber
- May lower cholesterol: The soluble fiber in okra can help bind cholesterol in the digestive tract, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.Opens in a new windowafroculture.netOkra cholesterol
- May help manage blood sugar: Okra’s fiber content can also help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes after meals. This is especially beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.Opens in a new windowhellodoctor.com.phOkra blood sugar
- Boosts the immune system: Okra’s vitamin C content helps support the immune system and fight off infections. Vitamin C is also involved in collagen production, which is important for skin health.Opens in a new windowwww.pinterest.esOkra immune system
- May have anti-cancer properties: Okra contains antioxidants and other compounds that may help protect against certain types of cancer. More research is needed, but some studies suggest that okra may be beneficial for colon cancer prevention.Opens in a new windowwww.mdpi.comOkra anticancer
- Good for pregnant women: Okra is a good source of folate, which is important for preventing birth defects in the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Okra is also a good source of other nutrients that are important for pregnant women, such as vitamin C and magnesium.Opens in a new windowwww.momjunction.comOkra pregnant women
- Improves digestion: Okra’s mucilaginous properties, which give it a slightly slimy texture, can help soothe the digestive tract and ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).Opens in a new windowwww.amazon.comOkra digestion
- May aid in weight loss: Okra’s low calorie and high fiber content can help you feel full and satisfied, which may lead to eating less and aiding in weight loss.Opens in a new windowwww.redbookmag.comOkra weight loss
- Versatile and delicious: Okra can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as roasted, grilled, stir-fried, pickled, or added to soups and stews. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into many dishes.Opens in a new windowcooktoria.comOkra dishes
Overall, okra is a healthy and delicious vegetable that can be a valuable addition to your diet. With its impressive nutrient profile and potential health benefits, it’s definitely worth giving okra a try!
I hope this helps!