Learn the Health Benefits of Okra
Okra
Okra is native to West Africa and is believed to have reached the New World during slave trafficking. It is a flowering plant that belongs in the mallow family, the same family as cotton and hibiscus.
Okra is low in calories (about 25 calories per half cup of cooked okra and 33 calories per one cup of raw okra) and packed with many nutrients. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
Health Benefits of Okra
Fiber
Okra contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. One half cup of cooked okra provides 2 grams of fiber and one cup of raw okra provides 3.2 grams. Fiber has multiple health benefits, including promoting weight loss, controlling blood sugar, preventing constipation and hemorrhoids, decreasing absorption of cholesterol, and lowering ones risk of colon cancer.
Mucilage
Okra contains a high concentration of mucilage, a gel-like substance that soothes inflammation. Mucilage lubricates and absorbs toxins, soothes ulcers, and acts as a gentle laxative. Okra is a perfect food for people with a sensitive stomach.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
One half cup of cooked okra contains 36.5 micrograms of folic acid and one cup of raw okra contains 87.8 micrograms. Folic acid is necessary for many bodily functions. It is especially important for women who become pregnant (right before and after becoming pregnant). It helps protect against neural tube defects and many other congenital malformations in the fetus.
Other health benefits include:
- maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes
- increasing energy
- enhancing the immune system.
Buying Okra
When buying fresh okra, choose young pods that are no more than 4 inches in length, tender but not too soft, and free of bruises.
Storing Okra
When storing in the refrigerator, wrap okra in a paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. This will keep it fresh for 2-3 days. Cooked okra should be placed in a tightly covered container and can stay refrigerated for 3-4 days.
Cooking Okra
To get the best health benefits of okra, it should be cooked using a low temperature for as little as possible. Steaming is best.
Disclaimer
Please read this disclaimer regarding the information contained within this article.
This post is part of the series: Other Healthy Vegetables
Health benefits of vegetables.