Health benefits of Okra or Lady Finger
A flowering plant called okra is well-known for its tasty seed pods. It is grown in regions with warm, tropical temperatures like Africa and South Asia.
Okra comes in two colours, red and green, and is occasionally referred to as “lady’s finger.” The red variety turns green when cooked, and both varieties have the same flavour.
Okra is typically used in cooking as a vegetable even though it is technically a fruit according to biology.
It’s a common ingredient in gumbo and is commonly used in Southern American cooking. However, some people find the texture slimy and unpleasant.
Okra is one of the least popular foods yet is very nutritious.
Rich in nutrients
Okra boasts an impressive nutrient profile.
One cup (100 grams) of raw okra contains
- Calories: 33
- Carbs: 7 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Fibre: 3 grams
- Magnesium: 14% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Folate: 15% of the DV
- Vitamin A: 14% of the DV
- Vitamin C: 26% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 26% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 14% of the DV
Okra is an excellent source of vitamins C and K1. Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that contributes to your overall immune function, while vitamin K1 is a fat-soluble vitamin that’s known for its role in blood clotting.
It keeps you feeling full
Okra’s dietary fibre helps you feel full for longer, which will keep you from snacking on those stray potato chips after dinner.
It’s great for your digestion
The fibre is the main factor here again. High fibre content is great for the digestive tract and keeps you going more regularly. This not only helps keep your weight down, but makes you healthier over all.
It’s cancer fighting
Packed with antioxidants, okra can provide much-needed support to cells in fighting off free-radicals that can lead to cancer.
It boosts the immune system
The healthy fibre in okra feeds much-needed good bacteria in our intestines, which builds our immunity against viruses and infection.
It supports fertility and healthy pregnancy
The high amount of folates in okra are especially important in a preconception diet as it decreases the incidence of neural tube defects in offspring“. Likewise, eating more forlates during the pregnancy helps support a healthy mom and baby.
It stabilises blood sugar levels
Okra’s fibre content is also responsible for slowing down the rate of sugar absorption in the digestive tract.
It can give you shiny, bouncy hair
Okra boiled, cooled, and mixed with lemon juice can be applied to your hair for a nice bouncy finish. Neat, huh?
It’s good for your brain
Okra is believed to be a top brain food and is eaten frequently in the Middle and Far East by students who need a mental boost.
It’s anti-inflammatory
That means it’s good for joints, as well as treating lung inflammation, sore throat, and irritable bowel syndrome.
It’s great for your skin
The high vitamin C content helps the growth and rejuvenation of skin cells and collagen, which keeps skin looking smoother, younger and healthier.
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