Okra (Hibiscus Esculentus), also known as okro, lady’s fingers, gumbo, and kiabo, is an Ethiopian plant, but it is nowadays grown and cultivated in numerous regions around the world.  It is a rich source of numerous nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, so it has been commonly used as a natural remedy for many years.

According to Dr.Mercola:

“Okra is low-calorie. A 100-gram serving of okra contains only 30 calories and zero saturated fats and cholesterol. It is, however, high in soluble and insoluble fiber.

One of the key nutrients of this green crop is vitamin C – about 36 percent of the daily recommended amount. Okras are also a good source of B vitamins, such as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and other B vitamins, such as niacin, thiamine, and pantothenic acid.

High levels of vitamin A and flavonoids such as beta-carotene, xanthin, and lutein can also be found in okras. These nutrients are associated with good vision, healthy skin, and mucous membranes, and even increased protection from cancer. Okras also provide vitamin K and folate. Folate is beneficial for pregnant women as it assists in child development.

Minerals that can also be found in this vegetable include iron, calcium, manganese, and magnesium.”

Its pod is greenish, with tiny seeds that can be added to salads, stews, and broths.

Here are some of its countless health benefits:

Strengthens Immune System And Improves Eyesight

Okra is high in vitamin A, an important nutrient that reinforces the immune system by increasing the white blood cell count and improves eyesight.

Treats Fatigue

Okra is abundant in antioxidants and polyphenols, that can promote glycogen storage in the liver, and thus energizes the body and treats fatigue.

Regulates Cholesterol Levels

This amazing vegetable lowers high cholesterol levels and prevents the accumulation of fat in the body. It lowers the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and improves the bile acid production in the stool, preventing atherosclerosis and heart attacks.

Controls Diabetes

The okra seeds inhibit a specific enzyme (alpha-glucosidase) that breaks down carbs and improves the insulin sensitivity of your cells, and thus controls diabetes, and lowers fasting glucose levels.

Stops Bleeding And Prevents Brittle Bones

The high vitamin K content strengthens the bones and improves blood coagulation, so okra will help you prevent excessive bleeding due to injuries, fractures, and osteoporosis

Prevents Gastritis

Okra has been shown to effectively destroy bacteria, including H.Pylori bacteria that cause infections in the intestinal lining and thus lowers the risk of inflammation and gastritis. 

Curbs Your Cravings

Being high in soluble fiber, okra keeps you full longer, curbs your cravings, and thus helps weight loss.

Source: alternativehealthuniverse.com