List of 9 Okra Benefits We Usually Overlook
OKRA BENEFITS – Here is a list of nine(9) excellent but usually overlooked health advantages of Okra.
Aside from singkamas or turnip, another healthy vegetable which we overlook its excellent effects to the body is the okra. It came from a flowering plant which is believed to be either from South Asian, West African, or Ethiopian origins.
The English term for this health vegetable is “ochro” with a scientific name of Abelmoschus esculentus. In England, it is also called “Ladies’ Fingers”.
There is a long list of excellent okra benefits for the body. This vegetable is really one of those that deserves a spot in every meal.
Based on an article on Lifehack, here is a list of nine(9) excellent yet usually overlooked okra benefits:
1. Promotes healthy digestion
Fiber is necessary for healthy digestion and okra has a huge load when it comes to it thus ingesting it is excellent for the digestive tract.
2. Boosts the immune system
By eating okra, the good bacteria inside the body is being fed with a good amount of fiber thus intensifying the immunity they bring to the body. A strong immune system can keep us guarded from infection and virus.
3. Lowers risk of diabetes
Studies show that okra has the capacity to reduce blood sugar levels thus it can be a great prevention from acquiring diabetes.
4. Eases respiratory problems
The Vitamin C content of this vegetable makes it an excellent food to strengthen the respiratory system and avoid problems such as asthma attack.
5. Helps build strong bones
This healthy vegetable also contains folates and Vitamin K which is necessary in reducing the risk of bone loss and bone problems such as osteoporosis.
6. Aids in treating ulcer
Okra is excellent in healing peptic ulcers. Its treatment function is served well by coating the digestive tract which is greatly affected by the said stomach condition.
7. Promotes eye health
One of the okra benefits is its capacity to keep the eyes healthy. It does it with its Vitamins A and C content which are known to help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
8. Helps fight cancer
Based on the article, the antioxidants present in okra can help in fighting the free radicals in the body which are among the major causes of cancer.
9. Reduces the risk of heart diseases
By lowering the level of the bad cholesterol in the body, okra helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular ailments. The LDL or the bad cholesterol is among the major causes of the said medical conditions.
READ ALSO: HONEY BENEFITS -7 Surprising Health Benefits of Honey