Okra is a rich source of fiber, and this fiber in okra is very effective in a diet, contributing to weight loss. Let's explore the benefits of okra with Saeed News. Stay with us.
Green vegetables are typically an inseparable part of a healthy diet. Among the various vegetables available for human consumption, the finger vegetable, also known as okra, holds a special place. This green vegetable, with its delicate yet distinctive taste, is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to health and is ideal for those in the weight stabilization phase. Okra, a highly beneficial pod vegetable, is considered a medicinal plant and is native to regions of Africa. It is very useful for people with diabetes and is also used to treat asthma, colds, flu, stroke, anemia, weight loss, and to lower blood fats.
Okra is a flowering plant that is green and conical in shape, native to areas of India and Egypt. It thrives well in warm regions but is now cultivated in most areas. The unripe green fruit is usually harvested and consumed and has a high nutritional value. Okra is rich in vitamins and minerals needed by the body, such as vitamins B1, B2, B6, folic acid, zinc, and fiber. It has a cold and moist temperament, and its sticky and watery texture (similar to purslane or spinach) during cooking reflects this temperament. It usually has a slightly sweet taste. It is a great vegetable for weight-loss diets as it is filling and low in calories, preventing weight gain.
Okra is a rich source of fiber. According to research, men need between 28 to 34 grams of fiber daily, and women require between 22 to 28 grams. The fiber in okra helps create a feeling of fullness for a longer period and reduces appetite throughout the day. Fiber promotes a feeling of stomach fullness and reduces the temptation to eat more. Additionally, okra improves bowel movements due to its high fiber content, helping the body in waste elimination and preventing constipation. It also aids digestion, reduces bloating, and is very beneficial for the stomach and intestines. Due to its polysaccharide content, okra has fat-burning properties, which help with weight loss. The minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins in okra, such as vitamin C, also help boost metabolism. Despite its high nutritional value, okra is very low in calories, which is another key reason for its effectiveness in weight loss.
The nutrients in 100 grams of okra are as follows:
Calories: 31
Carbohydrates: 7.03 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Fat: 0.1 grams
Fiber: 3.2 grams
Okra is a summer vegetable, but by drying it, you can enjoy its benefits all year long. Dried okra is rich in fiber and aids in weight loss. It prevents constipation and diarrhea, lowers blood cholesterol, and regulates blood sugar. Dried okra is also rich in iron and protein. After drying the okra, once you're sure the inside is dry, grind it and use it in stews that require thickening and simmering. You can also add it to salads. You can also freeze okra at home to preserve it, but this increases its calorie content and reduces its weight-loss properties.
Due to its oxalate content, consuming okra can be harmful to individuals who are prone to kidney stones or gallstones. Avoid using copper, iron, or brass cookware for preparing okra, as these metals can be absorbed by the okra and make it toxic. It’s better to use porcelain or ceramic cookware. Additionally, due to its cold nature, people with a cold temperament should consume okra with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger. When consuming both metformin and okra, drug interactions may occur. Okra can also interfere with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin and Coumadin.
This nutritious vegetable is also beneficial for skin health. The antioxidants in okra prevent premature aging of the skin and help the body rid itself of harmful free radicals. Okra is an ideal food for pregnant women. The folate content in this vegetable helps with the health of the fetus and supports the proper growth of the baby in the womb.
