Health Benefits of Okra
Health Benefits of Okra
Okra, also known as lady’s fingers is a flowering plant that has edible green seed pods that belongs to the mallow family. Okra is native to East Africa and is cultivated in tropical, subtropical and warm temperature regions around the world.
Okra has essential vitamins and minerals including magnesium, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, copper, niacin, zinc, phosphorous, and thiamine.
Okra is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Okra has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Okra may help promote heart health. Okra contains a thick gel-like substance called mucilage that can bind to cholesterol during digestion which can be passed through the body. An 8 week study on mice showed lower cholesterol levels after they were fed a high-fat diet containing okra powder.
Okra may help manage blood sugar levels. Researchers believe that okra may help prevent sugar from being absorbed during digestion.
Okra may help promote digestive health and promote weight loss due to its fiber content.
Okra may help reduce fatigue, promote bone health and promote brain health. Okra may have anticancer properties but more research is needed.
Okra is not a nightshade fruit or vegetable but it does contain solanine and therefore is inflammatory if you have an autoimmune disease.
If you have an okra allergy then please do not consume. Okra contains high levels of oxalates that may be problematic if you have kidney issues and may lead to kidney function harm and/or kidney stones.
Okra may interact with certain medications including blood thinners, and diabetes medications just to name a few.
As always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okra
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/okra-benefits/https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/okra-health-benefits