Okra's unusual mucilaginous texture and vibrant green colour won't make it the most glamorous of vegetables, but it's certainly one of the healthiest. This humble pod, a staple of so many foods on the planet, is a nutritional powerhouse that can have a significant impact on your overall health. Let's examine five good reasons you should be eating more okra:
1. Digestive Dynamo: Full of dietary fibre
Okra is rich in both insoluble and soluble dietary fibre. Soluble fibre exists in the intestine as a gel-like substance, thus facilitating smooth digestion and avoiding constipation. Insoluble fibre's bulk-forming properties and regular bowel movements prevent constipation and keep the digestive tract healthy. The fibre also produces a sense of fullness that can be helpful in weight control.
2. Blood Sugar Buddy: Regulates glucose
For those who want to regulate their blood sugar, okra can be a good friend. Its fibre slows the digestive tract's absorption of sugars, so no fear about the rise in blood glucose levels. Additional studies indicate that some of the contents of okra have antidiabetic activity and assist in enhancing its function as a blood sugar regulator.
3. Heart Health Hero: Maintains the cardiovascular system
Okra keeps the heart healthy in the following ways: Its soluble fibre delays the rate of bad cholesterol (LDL) absorption by binding itself to the cholesterol in the body and securing its removal. Okra also has antioxidants such as vitamins C and A that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are the reasons behind cardiovascular disease.
4. Immunity Booster: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants
Boost your immune system naturally with okra! It is packed with Vitamin C, a robust antioxidant for its immune-boosting activity and defence of the body against infection. Okra also has additional antioxidants such as flavonoids and isoquercetin, which fight free radicals and limit cellular damage.
5. Vision and Bone Protector: Packed with high levels of vitamins A and K
Okra contains a good amount of Vitamin A, which is necessary to maintain healthy vision, particularly at night. It also helps in healthy mucous membranes and skin. Okra is also a good source of Vitamin K, a vitamin that is needed to clot blood and have strong, healthy bones by helping the body absorb calcium and also aiding in bone mineralisation.
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