Okra water, which is made by letting sliced okra pods soak in water, has been used as a traditional medicine in many countries for a long time. It has been around since ancient times, when it was used to treat a wide range of health problems.
There is a lot of interest in the possible benefits of okra water during pregnancy because it is becoming more famous as a natural supplement, especially among pregnant women.
In this article, we will look at its nutritional value and the possible benefits okra water may have for pregnant women.
Check my recent post on: Nutrition in Okra
Historical Uses of Okra Water
In different parts of the world, okra water has been used as a medicine for a long time. Ancient cultures, like those in Egypt and West Africa, knew that okra water might be good for your health and used it as part of their traditional medicine. It was often used to help with stomach problems, soothe sore throats, and improve general health. [1]
Potential Health Benefits of Okra Water
Several studies have looked at the phytochemical compounds in okra, like polyphenols and flavonoids, and their possible health benefits. [7] Also, a study has looked at how okra affects different parts of health, such as its possible role in managing diabetes, reducing inflammation, and helping heart health.
Besides its possible benefits during pregnancy, okra water is good for your health in many ways:
- The mucilage in okra water acts as a natural lubricant for the digestive system, making bowel movements smoother and preventing constipation. [2, 3]
- The high amount of vitamin C in okra water adds to a stronger immune system, which helps the body fight off infections and illnesses. [4, 5]
- Some studies suggest that the fiber and other nutrients in okra water may help regulate blood sugar levels. This can be helpful for people with diabetes or who are at risk of getting the disease. [6]
Okra water and pregnancy
During pregnancy, mothers-to-be are often careful about the supplements they take and look for natural options that are safe for their health and the health of their growing baby.
Some pregnant women like to drink okra water because it might be good for them and is full of nutrients. But it’s important to address safety issues and carefully weigh the pros and cons.
Concerns about Safety and Reasons to Choose Okra Water
Women who are pregnant should talk to their doctors before adding okra water to their daily practice.
Some pregnant women choose to drink okra water as a natural supplement, while others may do so because it is easy to make at home, cheap, and thought to have many health benefits. But safety is still the most important thing, since not all natural treatments are good for everyone, especially during pregnancy.
Nutrients in okra water are good for you and your baby while you’re pregnant. Okra water is full of nutrients that are good for both the mother and the growing baby. Among these important chemicals are:
Health Benefits of Okra Water During Pregnancy
Also Read: Okra in Labor
#1 Okra contains Folate
Folate is a vitamin that is very important for fetal growth, especially in the first few weeks of pregnancy. It helps avoid birth defects of the brain and spinal cord and helps the brain and spinal cord form in the baby.
Because folate is soluble in water, it is advisable to consume okra water for its highest intake. The folate losses for okra in scientific study was 4% on frying and 13% on boiling. [8]
#2 Okra can help Relieve Constipation
A pregnant woman should consider herself lucky if she never has trouble going to the bathroom.
Getting enough fiber can help relieve constipation. It helps your body digest food well and have regular bowel movements. And because okra contains a lot of fiber (1.7 g fiber/100 g okra), drinking okra water can be a very wise choice.
Also, Constipation is relieved because the mucilage in okra water works as a natural laxative, softening stools and making bowel movements easier. [9]
#3 Okra Water May Help Relieve Nausea
Some pregnant women find that the mild and soothing properties of okra water help ease their nausea and other signs of morning sickness. [10]
#4 Okra Water might Support Fetal Development
Okra promotes a healthy pregnancy. It is rich in essential B vitamin folate, preventing birth defects like spina bifida and aiding the baby’s complete development. Okra is also abundant in vitamin C, crucial for baby development. The high folate content supports fetal brain growth. Folic acid in okra plays a significant role in forming the fetal neural tube during weeks four to twelve of pregnancy. [11, 12]
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Okra Water
Even though okra water might have some benefits, it’s important to know about the risks and side effects:
- Reactions from allergies: Some people may be allergic to okra or to one of its parts, which can cause itching, rashes, or swelling.
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Some pregnant women may not be able to handle the slimy nature of okra water, which can make them feel uncomfortable or sick.
- Blood Sugar Levels: Okra water may affect blood sugar levels, so diabetic women who drink it should pay close attention to their blood sugar levels if they do.
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