Okra water, made by soaking okra pods in water for up to 24 hours, has gained popularity as a health drink. Some believe that it can aid in weight loss and help regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, it can be a substitute for those who find the taste and texture of okra unappealing. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of drinking okra water.
What’s in Okra Water?
While the specific nutritional value of okra water is unknown, we do know that the vegetable itself is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Raw okra pods contain important nutrients such as:
- Calories: 31
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Manganese: 33% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 24% of the DV
- Thiamin: 16% of the DV
- Folate: 14% of the DV
- Magnesium: 13% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 12% of the DV
- Copper: 12% of the DV
Okra is particularly rich in manganese, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and blood sugar regulation. It is also high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function. Consuming okra water can provide these essential nutrients to your body.
Health Benefits of Okra Water
1. Blood Pressure and Heart Health: Okra contains potassium, a mineral that is vital for maintaining overall health. Potassium helps balance fluid levels, regulates sodium levels, relaxes the arteries and blood vessels, and helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
2. Defense Mechanism: Okra is rich in antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals in the body. It is also high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. This strengthens the immune system and protects against pathogens and harmful substances.
3. Gastrointestinal Health: Including okra in your diet can increase your fiber intake, benefiting your digestive system. The mucilaginous fiber in okra aids in the passage of food through the digestive system, reducing issues such as gas, bloating, cramping, and constipation. It also helps control bowel movements, lowers cholesterol levels, and prevents diarrhea.
4. Enhancer of Vision: Okra is a great source of antioxidants like beta carotene, lutein, and xanthene, as well as vitamin A. These antioxidants protect the body’s cells, including those involved in vision, from damage caused by free radicals. Regular consumption of okra can help guard against cataracts and macular degeneration.
5. Skin Conditions: Okra can improve skin health and promote faster healing. Its antioxidants can reduce wrinkles, diminish the visibility of scars and acne, and protect skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Conclusion
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of okra water, incorporating okra into your diet can provide essential nutrients and potentially offer various health advantages. From promoting heart health and boosting immunity to supporting digestion and improving skin conditions, okra certainly has a lot to offer. So why not give okra water a try and enjoy its potential benefits for your overall health and well-being?
