Did you know that Okra is rich in fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber helps to lower serum cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. The other half is insoluble fiber, which helps to keep the intestinal tract healthy, decreasing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colorectal cancer. Managing Diabetes The fiber also helps stabilise blood sugar level by delaying sugar absorption from the intestines.
Okra has a slimy texture, inside, called mucillage, causing many to dislike it. However, it's important to consider its amazing health benefits.
- Okra's mucillage binds and inhibits the absorption of cholesterol, bile acids, and toxins.
- It helps alleviate the irritation, swelling, and pain in the throat associated with the common cold and cough.
- Boiling okra in water has been found to be very useful in treating an itchy throat and persistent dry cough when you have a cold.
- Fresh okra has also been found useful in treating cystitis (inflammation of the urinary bladder).
- Other health benefits of okra are in the Vitamin B6 and Folate it provides. Half a cup of cooked okra provides nearly 10% of the recommended levels of Vitamin B6 and folic acid. Because of it's high folic acid content, which promotes fetal development, okra is one of the prenatal vitamins recommended for pregnant women.
- Like yogurt (curds, dahi), okra propagates good bacteria in the intestines that helps digestion. Okra is also rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Iron.
- Okra seeds contain Protein and edible oil that is as nutritious as many vegetable oils. Apart from all these health benefits of okra, this vegetable is also ideal for weight-loss as it is extremely low in calories and is fat-free.
Cooking Tips
- Use okra that's tender and fresh.
- Wash okra and dry thoroughly before cutting.
- To reduce the slime, cook okra whole and avoid overcooking.
Adding a spoonful of yogurt or buttermilk also helps dry out the slime, when using okra in stir-fries
