Okra, also known as lady’s finger or gumbo—is a flowering plant native to Africa. Celebrated for its culinary appeal, this vegetable transcends borders, blending into dishes across Indian, Middle Eastern and Southern American cuisines. With long, slender green pods containing small, edible seeds, okra blurs the lines between fruit and vegetable, offering a unique blend of flavours and textures. Available in green and red varieties, okra is a culinary delight and a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, fibre, vitamins A and B6, folate and more, okra is low in calories and carbs, making it a brilliant addition to a balanced diet. As we explore this remarkable plant’s diverse hues and nutritional benefits, we uncover why okra deserves a place on your plate for its contribution to overall health and well-being.
What are the Health Benefits of Okra?
There are several health benefits of ladies’ finger vegetables:
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It Is Rich in Antioxidants:
Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body. Okra is a vegetable rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, flavonoids and isoquercetin. Other vitamins found in okra are vitamins A and C. Consuming vegetables rich in antioxidants is linked to improved heart health, blood clot management and oxidative stress reduction. It also helps the brain function better and lowers inflammation in the body.
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May Lower Risks Related to Heart Problems:
Another advantage of okra is that it lowers the risks related to heart disease. It contains mucilage that lowers cholesterol levels, thus improving heart health. Moreover, okra is rich in polyphenols, which aid heart health. A 4-year study on 100 people estimated that those who consumed a diet rich in polyphenols fight inflammation and protect their heart.
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It Contains Anti-Cancer Properties:
One of the major benefits of ladies’ finger vegetables is that they contain lectin, a protein that helps fight cancer. In a test-tube study in breast cancer cells, lectin in okra prevented cancer cell growth by 63%. However, more human research is needed to verify the claim.
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Beneficial for Pregnant Women:
Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is essential for pregnant women.
Incorporating okra into one’s diet can reduce the risk of neural tube defects, which impact the developing fetus’s brain and spine. One cup of okra contains 15% folate, more than essential for meeting daily nutrient requirements. Women of childbearing age are advised to consume 400 mcg of folate daily.
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Can Be Added to Diet Easily:
Okra is easy to cook and consume. Add it to soups and stews like gumbo, or incorporate it into your diet in its vegetable form. Remember to purchase tender, smooth green pods without brown spots and dried ends.
Conclusion
Okra’s health benefits extend beyond its culinary appeal, offering a wealth of advantages for overall well-being. From its rich fibre content promoting digestive health to the abundance of nutrients supporting various bodily functions, okra is a nutritious addition to any diet. As we savour the flavours and embrace the health perks of this versatile vegetable, it becomes clear that prioritising our well-being is akin to having a comprehensive health insurance policy—a wise investment in long-term vitality and resilience.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.