Okra, also known as lady’s fingers or gumbo, is a vegetable that is loved and consumed all over the world. It is often used in soups, stews, and curries, but did you know that it also has an impressive nutritional profile and health benefits? From stabilizing blood sugar levels to promoting healthy digestion, the power of okra goes beyond its delicious taste.

In this article, We will explore ten health benefits of okra that will make you want to add it to your regular diet. So, let’s dive in and discover the power of okra!

What Is Okra?

Okra, scientifically known as Abelmoschus esculentus, is a flowering plant that belongs to the mallow family. It is cultivated for its edible green pods, which are used in various cuisines around the world. Okra is known for its unique texture and is commonly used in soups, stews, and stir-fries. It is also valued for its nutritional profile and potential health benefits.

Okra, Image: freepik.com

Okra Nutrition Facts

The following nutrition information is provided by the USDA for 1/2 cup (80g) sliced, boiled okra.

Okra, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt. FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture.

• Calories: 18
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Carbohydrates: 3.6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1.9g
• Protein: 1.5g

Carbohydrates: A half-cup of cooked okra contains less than 4 grams of carbohydrates, with half of it being fiber and the other half being natural sugars. Okra is considered to have a low glycemic index, which means it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

Fat: Okra has a negligible amount of fat, and the fat it does contain is primarily healthy unsaturated fats and fatty acids.

Protein: While okra is not particularly high in protein, like most vegetables, it contributes a modest amount to your overall protein intake.

Vitamins and Minerals: Okra is a rich source of vitamin K and a good source of vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients play important roles in various bodily functions and support overall health.

Health Benefits Of Okra

Okra, also known as lady’s fingers, is a green, slender vegetable that is popular in many cuisines around the world. It is a nutritious vegetable that provides a variety of benefits for the body. Here are ten health benefits of okra.

1. Lowers cholesterol levels: Okra contains soluble fiber that helps to lower cholesterol levels in the body. By binding to cholesterol and bile acids in the gut, okra helps to eliminate excess cholesterol from the body.

2. Improves digestion: Okra is rich in fiber, which helps to prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. It also contains mucilage, a thick, sticky substance that coats the digestive tract and prevents irritation.

3. Boosts immune system: Okra is a rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants that help to boost the immune system, preventing infections and diseases.

4. Lowers blood sugar levels: Okra contains compounds that inhibit the enzymes that break down carbohydrates, helping to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

5. Reduces inflammation: Okra is rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming okra regularly can help to reduce inflammation in the body, preventing chronic conditions like arthritis and heart disease.

6. Improves skin health: Okra is rich in vitamin C, which helps to promote collagen production, leading to better skin health and a reduction in wrinkles and fine lines.

7. Prevents anemia: Okra is a good source of iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells. Consuming okra can help prevent anemia and promote healthy blood circulation.

8. Strengthens bones: Okra is rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, all of which are essential for healthy bones. Consuming okra regularly can help to promote bone strength and prevent conditions like osteoporosis.

9. Promotes weight loss: Okra is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight loss diet. The fiber in okra helps to promote satiety, preventing overeating.

10. Protects against cancer: Okra contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties, specifically in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Okra is a nutritious vegetable that provides a variety of benefits for the body. Incorporating okra into your diet can lead to improved health and well-being.

Related: 15 Health Benefits of Including Lima Beans in Your Meals

How do you cook Okra?

Okra, Image: freepik.com

Okra can be cooked in various ways, but one popular method is sautéing. Here’s a simple recipe for cooking okra:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh okra
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil (such as vegetable oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other herbs and spices you prefer

Instructions:

1. Wash the okra thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a kitchen towel. Trim the stems, but be careful not to cut too much.
2. Slice the okra into ½ inch rounds. You can cut them into smaller or larger pieces based on your preference.
3. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced okra to the pan in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches if necessary.
5. Sauté the okra for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help cook the okra evenly and prevent it from sticking to the pan. The okra will start to turn a vibrant green color and become tender.
6. Optional: If desired, add your preferred seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.) during the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
7. Once the okra is cooked to your desired tenderness, remove it from the heat.
8. Serve the sautéed okra as a side dish alongside your main meal. It pairs well with rice, curry, grilled meats, or can even be enjoyed on its own.

Remember, this is just one way of cooking okra, and there are numerous other recipes you can explore based on your taste preferences.

Related: 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Eating Arugula (Eruca Sativa)!

What Are some Popular dishes that include Okra?

Some popular dishes that include okra are:

1. Gumbo: A traditional Louisiana dish made with a roux base, okra, and various meats or seafood.
2. Bhindi Masala: A popular Indian curry made with okra, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
3. Fried Okra: Sliced okra coated in cornmeal or flour and deep-fried until crispy.
4. Okra Soup: A flavorful soup made with okra, tomatoes, onions, and various vegetables or meats.
5. Bamya: A Middle Eastern dish made with okra, tomatoes, garlic, and spices, often served with rice or bread.
6. Jambalaya: A Creole dish similar to paella, made with rice, meat (such as chicken, sausage, or shrimp), and okra.
7. Okra Stew: A hearty stew made with okra, tomatoes, onions, and various vegetables or meats.
8. Doro Wat: An Ethiopian spicy chicken stew that often includes okra as one of the ingredients.
9. Okra Curry: A curry dish made with okra, coconut milk, and various spices, commonly found in South Asian cuisine.
10. Pickled Okra: Okra pods pickled in vinegar or brine, often served as a condiment or snack.

How Should Okra be Stored?

Okra should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Here are some tips for storing okra:

1. Leave the okra unwashed and dry. Moisture can cause it to spoil faster, so only wash it right before using.
2. Place the okra in a perforated plastic bag or wrap it loosely in a paper towel. This helps to absorb excess moisture and maintain the okra’s crispness.
3. Store the okra in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The cool temperature will help to preserve its quality.
4. Avoid overcrowding the okra or storing it with ethylene-producing fruits like apples or bananas, as this can accelerate spoilage.
5. Check the okra regularly and remove any spoiled or damaged pieces to prevent them from affecting the rest of the batch.

By following these storage guidelines, you can keep okra fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Read-More: 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Green Beans!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power of okra cannot be underestimated when it comes to its numerous health benefits. From its high fiber content to its rich array of vitamins and minerals, okra has proven to be a superfood that can support overall health and well-being.

Its ability to aid in digestion, manage diabetes, boost immune function, and promote healthy skin and hair make it a valuable addition to any diet.

Additionally, its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease, improve vision, and support weight loss further highlight its importance.

By incorporating okra into our meals and embracing its nutritional value, we can harness its power and enjoy a healthier and more vibrant life. So, let us not overlook the humble okra and its incredible potential to enhance our health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have a deep understanding of the health benefits of Okra there might be some questions that must be bothering you. In the below section, we will try and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Okra.