Written by Okra Water Benefits and How To Make It
Okra water is a natural health drink that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. It is made by soaking fresh okra pods in water overnight and drinking the resulting water in the morning on an empty stomach. In this blog post, we will explore okra water benefits and how to make it, as well as its potential side effects.
What is Okra Water?
Okra water is a natural drink made from soaking fresh okra pods in water overnight. Okra, also known as lady’s finger, is a green vegetable that is widely used in cooking in many parts of the world, especially in African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian cuisine. It is rich in nutrients such as vitamins A and C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Okra is also a good source of dietary fibre, which makes it an ideal food for those looking to improve their digestive health.
Okra Water Benefits
- Helps with Digestion
Okra water is a rich source of dietary fibre, which makes it an excellent drink for improving digestion. Dietary fibre helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and reduce bloating and gas. Okra water also contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that helps to lubricate the digestive tract and ease the passage of stool.
- Lowers Cholesterol
Okra water is known to have cholesterol-lowering properties. It contains soluble fibre, which helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the gut. A study published in the Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology found that okra extract reduced cholesterol levels in rats fed a high-fat diet.
- Improves Immune System
Okra water is a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. Drinking okra water can help to boost your immune system and reduce the risk of illnesses.
- Reduces Blood Sugar Levels
Okra water has been found to have anti-diabetic properties. It contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which are natural compounds that help to regulate blood sugar levels. A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bio allied Sciences found that okra extract reduced blood sugar levels in diabetic rats.
- Promotes Weight Loss
Okra water is a low-calorie drink that is rich in fibre. Drinking okra water can help to promote weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. Fibre also helps to slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, which can prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sugary foods.
How to Make Okra Water
To make okra water, you will need fresh okra pods and water. Here are the steps to make okra water:
- Wash the okra pods thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut off the ends of the okra pods and slice them into thin rounds.
- Place the sliced okra pods in a large jar or container.
- Add enough water to the container to cover the okra slices completely.
- Cover the container with a lid and let it sit overnight.
- In the morning, strain the okra water into a glass or bottle.
- Drink the okra water on an empty stomach, preferably first thing in the morning.
Potential Side Effects
While okra water is generally considered safe for consumption, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, after drinking okra water. This is usually due to the high fibre content of okra, which can be difficult to digest for some people.
Additionally, okra water may interact with certain medications, such as diabetes medications, and cause a drop in blood sugar levels. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before adding okra water to your diet, especially if you have a medical condition or take medications.
Conclusion
Okra water is a natural health drink that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is a rich source of nutrients and fibre that can help to improve digestion, lower cholesterol, boost the immune system, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote weight loss. While there are potential side effects to be aware of, okra water is generally considered safe for consumption. If you are interested in trying okra water, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider first to make sure it is safe for you.
