Okra, which has the formal name Hibiscus esculentus, is a versatile vegetable that people all over the world love and eat. Because of how it looks and how good it tastes, it has become a mainstay in many cuisines, from Southern meals in the US to gumbo in the Caribbean.
But okra is more than just a tasty food that can be added to recipes. Recently, okra water has gotten a lot of attention because it might be good for your health. It has become a hot topic among health fans and experts alike. In this piece, we’ll learn about all the great things about okra water and look at how it might help our health.
Nutritional breakdown of 100 g of Okra Pod [1*]
- Water: 88.6 g
- Energy: 144.00 kJ (36 kcal)
- Protein: 2.10 g
- Carbohydrates: 8.20 g
- Fat: 0.20 g
- Fiber: 1.70 g
- Calcium (Ca): 84.00 mg
- Phosphorus (P): 90.00 mg
- Iron (Fe): 1.20 mg
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): 47.00 mg
Potential Health Benefits of Okra Water
There isn’t much scientific study about the benefits of okra water. Most studies on okra’s health benefits have focused on the whole veggie or its extracts, not on okra water. However, some early research and anecdotal evidence show that okra and its parts may have some health benefits.
People who don’t like the slimy taste of okra or who want to get the health benefits of okra without spending a lot of time preparing it can drink okra water.
1. Okra Water may be a Great Source of Antioxidants
Okra water has antioxidants in it, like quercetin, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and vitamin C, which could be good for your health. Even though more study needs to be done, these compounds may lower the risk of chronic diseases, boost the immune system, reduce early signs of aging, such as wrinkles, and reduce inflammation. [2*, 3*, 4*, 5*]
2. Okra Water May Help Reduce Your Weight
Okra’s high fiber content keeps you fuller for longer, aiding in weight loss. Okra fruit contains crude protein (23.36%) and carbohydrates (42.66%). It is low in calories and fat, making it ideal for calorie-restricted diets. Additionally, okra’s nutrients and antioxidants support overall well-being during weight loss. Sustainable weight loss requires a balanced diet and regular physical activity. [6*, 7*]
3. Okra Water May be great food for Diabetes
Okra is a great food for diabetes due to its high antioxidant activity. [8*] According to a study, administering okra peel and seed powder to diabetic rodents increased antioxidant enzyme levels and reduced oxidative stress. [9*] Its rich dietary fiber regulates sugar absorption, maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Viscous soluble dietary fiber in okra significantly reduced glucose absorption in rats, suggesting benefits for diabetic patients in controlling post-meal blood glucose levels. [10*] Okra seed has shown the ability to normalize blood glucose levels and reduce lipid profiles in diabetic conditions. [11*]
4. Okra Water can be Great Food to Prevent Constipation During Pregnancy
Adding okra water to your diet during pregnancy can help keep you from getting constipated. The high fiber content of okra helps keep bowel movements regular and relieves the pain of constipation, making it a great choice for pregnant women looking for natural treatments for digestive problems. [12*]
5. Okra Water can Help Solve Your Digestive Problems
Okra water is commonly used to alleviate stomach issues. Polysaccharides found in immature okra pods have anti-adhesive characteristics. These qualities contribute to limiting bacterial attachment to stomach tissue, hence inhibiting pathogenic culture proliferation. Consuming okra water may help to alleviate digestive difficulties and create a healthier digestive tract. [13*]
6. Okra Water can Help to get over Frailty, Fatigue, and Symptoms of Depression
Okra water has beneficial effects for individuals experiencing frailty, fatigue, and symptoms of depression. Okra seeds contain compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, and quercetin-3-O-gentibiose, contributing to their antioxidant and anti-fatigue properties. These seeds lower blood lactic acid and urea nitrogen levels, increase glycogen storage, and enhance antioxidant capacity. [14*, 15*]
Does Okra Water Have Side Effects?
There aren’t any scientific studies that indicate the direct harm that okra water can bring. However, some people may have minor stomach problems like gas or bloating, especially if they are not used to eating foods with a lot of fiber as it contains fructans. [16*]
Okra Water Recipe
How to make Okra Water
Ingredients
- 3 -5 pieces okra
- ⅛ tbsp salt
- lemon
Instructions
- Take 3–5 okra pods and fully wash them to get rid of any dirt or debris.
- Cut off both ends of the pods using a knife or kitchen scissors. And then cut the okra into small pieces. And transfer it to glass filled with water.
- Wrap the glass with plastic that has water and okra in it and leave it overnight.
- Next morning, unwrap the cover and then remove all the okra using a spoon or fork and your okra water is ready.
- You can simply drinkg the okra water or add a little lemon and salt.