By Nkechi Eze
What is Okra?
Okra is a vegetable with high nutritional value. It is even called ‘Green Ginseng’ by the Japanese and has increasing popularity as healthy food. Okra can be enjoyed either by pan- frying, air-frying, and salading, but can be complicated to make. In Nigeria, the most common way okra is enjoy is the popular okra soup, with any type of swallow. One way to enjoy okra and absorb its nutrients with ease unknown to many is to make okra water. Okra water when prepared, does not give a slippery texture and herbaceous taste.
Nutritional Values of Okra
Okra is a good source of several key vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B, and dietary fibre.
What is Okra water?
Okra water is a drink made by soaking okra pods in water for up to 24 hours. Its proponents claim that it boosts weight loss and improves blood sugar management, among other health benefits.
Health Benefits of OkraWater
1. Anti-oxidation and Promotes hearty health Okra Is a Natural Source of Antioxidant Polyphenols, such as Flavonoids, And Vitamins A And C, Which Can Reduce The Damage Done By Free Radicals, Lower The Risk Of Vascular Embolism And Improve Heart Health. Since Polyphenols Can Prevent Inflammation In The Brain, They Can Avoid Ageing And Deterioration In The Brain.
2. Lowers Blood Sugar level
Okra effectively decreases blood sugar levels. Flavonoids in okra can repress the absorption of glucose in the small intestine. With water- soluble dietary fiber, it can form gelatinous or sticky substances in the bowel, decelerating the rate of digestion. Both nutrients help regulate blood sugar by slowing down sugar absorption.
3. Maintain satiety to help lose weight .
Okra is rich in fiber with low calories. After deducting the calories of dietar y fiber (around 2,000cal), only 28kcal is present in 100g of okra. With improved satiety by the fiber, it can surely help you lose a few pounds.
How to Make Okra Water
Ingredients:
5 Raw Okras
100-180mL of Water
Steps:
1. Wash fresh okras with salt and chop the heads out.
2. Put the okra cut sides down in a bottle or cup.
3. Pour room temperature water and cover it with a lid. Chill it in a fridge for 8 to 12 hours or soak it in room temperature for a night.
4. Take out the okras and enjoy it.
Slices of ginger, lemon and grapefruit can be added for added flavor.
