Health Benefits of Okra
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Aug 18, 2021 • 3 min Read
Okra is delicious, nutritious, and well-known for its slimy texture. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Okra is one of the ingredients in Pinoy dishes like Pinakbet, Diningding, or Sinigang though the simplest way to consume it is to steam the veggie and dip it in shrimp paste or bagoong.
Okra is versatile. It is used as pickled vegetable, an ingredient in soups and side dishes, the oil extracted from okra can be utilized as vegetable oil, and okra dipped in water is used as traditional and alternative therapy for diabetes.
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of okra, from Organic Facts:
1. May Aid in Diabetes Management
Okra has potent antioxidant power in its seeds and peel, which specifically help people with type 2 diabetes. A study published explored the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic properties of the green sticky vegetable. Diabetic rats were administered the powdered form for a range of 14 to 28 days and showed improved lipid profiles when the tests ended. Furthermore, the health benefits of okra water are known to be beneficial for managing blood glucose levels. A study published says that in Turkey, drinking water infused with roasted okra seeds is a common natural remedy for diabetes.
2. May Help Improve Digestion
A study by a team of international researchers says that the fiber content of okra can help improve digestion. The study found that the high amount of fiber in the vegetable helped improve the absorption process in the large intestine and stimulated peristalsis in the body. This may also help prevent constipation.
3. May Reduce Fatigue
Okra may help reduce fatigue levels in the body. Researchers found that antioxidant-rich vegetable seeds may help reduce muscle tiredness. In a clinical trial conducted, the swimming time of mice who were given the extract increased significantly as compared to the controlled group. Lactic acid levels were possibly much lower in the mice that had the vegetable extracts that indicates a lower muscle weakness effect. The research study suggested that okra consumption could be related to improved metabolic capacity and improved ability stress.
4. May Help Lower Cholesterol Levels
Researchers found evidence that okra may lower total cholesterol levels. In a study, it helped reduce the levels of blood glucose, insulin, and total cholesterol. Also, this vegetable is a good source of fiber; 1 cup provides 3.2 g of dietary fiber. According to the American Heart Association, foods rich in dietary fiber help lower bad cholesterol levels.
5. Can Help Manage Hypertriglyceridemia
Okra can be a dietary therapy source for hypertriglyceridemia, a condition that occurs when there is a high level of a certain type of fat (triglycerides) in the blood and may contribute to the hardening of arteries and subsequently, cardiovascular diseases.
6. Possible Anti-stress Effect
Researchers found scientific evidence through a study conducted in a laboratory that okra seeds extracts have anti-stress (adaptogen) properties. Adaptogens can help enhance overall health, as prolonged stressful situations can cause ineffective adaptation in the body, which can include reduced stamina levels and affect mood. According to the study, not only can it help reduce stress levels, but has also the potential to manage stress-related disorders and dementia.
Indeed, okra is a wonder food. Start incorporating this super veggie into your diet and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
