The okra or lady finger is a tropical plant with long, ridged seedpods. People use the young seedpods of this plant to thicken soups and stews.
But aside from its ability to give soup its sticky texture, the okra has properties that are beneficial to your health. Here are some of the health benefits of okra.
1. It is a rich source of vitamin A.
Okra is packed with vitamin A and flavonoid antioxidants beta carotene and lutein. It is actually just one of the few green vegetables that contain flavonoids.
Vitamin A on the other hand is another antioxidant that helps to keep you in good health, but one of its most important roles is to give you healthy vision and glowing skin.
Okra also possesses properties which are capable of preventing the growth of certain types of cancers.
2. It helps to facilitate weight loss.
Okra is low in calorie content and consuming it on a regular basis can help to provide you with your nutritional needs without the extra calories that can cause weight problems. It is also free from saturated fats. This makes okra a beneficial food for diabetics and people with heart problems.
3. It helps to promote digestive health.
Okra is a rich source of fiber which has the ability to optimize the health of your digestive system. Some of its important benefits include the absorption water and the elimination of metabolic toxins, excess bile and excess cholesterol. It also helps to prevent gas pains and constipation.
4. It helps to provide energy keep the nervous system healthy.
This vegetable is also a rich source of vitamin B complex which helps to keep you energized and protected from stress and anxiety.
It also contains vitamin K – a co-factor for blood clotting enzymes which is also essential for the health and development of your bones.
5. It is a good source of minerals that are essential to your health, energy, and protection from diseases. These minerals include iron, calcium, manganese and magnesium.
