Called scientifically "Hibiscus esculentus" or "Abelmoschus esculentus", okra is generally grown in tropical temperate regions and is native to Africa. It is distinguished from other foods by its shape, its green color, its sticky texture and the small grains it contains. However, beyond its culinary uses, many studies continue to boast the extraordinary virtues of this plant on health. Zoom on this food with countless benefits.
Thanks to its unique flavor and taste, the king of African vegetables can be used in salads, broths or stews. If it is appreciated by many people, it is because okra is low in calories and also contains an excellent nutritional heritage with a good content of water, fiber, minerals (potassium, magnesium, copper, calcium ...) and vitamins A, B, C and K. It is therefore the combination of all these components that make this food a powerful remedy against many health problems.
Okra adjusts cholesterol levels:
If you need to lower or prevent your cholesterol, okra is the food indicated because it prevents the accumulation of fat in the blood and balances cholesterol levels according to a study developed in 2015
Controls diabetes:
Okra manages to control the glycemic level in the blood by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, the main cause of glucose absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Indeed, the seeds of okra according to a study published in 2013, would reduce blood sugar and therefore would be an antidiabetic food. In addition, another study focused on the effectiveness of myricetin, a substance that regulates blood sugar levels, by transferring them to the muscles.
Strengthens the immune system and corrects vision:
Okra is a superfood for vision correction and immune system activation. Indeed, vitamin C contained in okra helps boost the effectiveness of white blood cells by providing them with the energy they need, which further strengthens the immune defense. Moreover, a study has shown that the antioxidants of this food such as flavonoids, pectin, amino acids would slow cell aging and thus reduce vision problems.
Anti-fatigue food:
If you suffer from fatigue it is just that your body is sorely lacking in energy. Thus, consumption of okra can be of great help to you. According to a study published in the MDPI (Molecular Diversity Preservation International), it is the polyphenols and flavonoids that are responsible for the anti-fatigue activity of this food. Indeed, they reduce the level of lactic acid in the blood, give energy to the body, while ensuring the storage of glycogen in the liver.
1- Solution against small hungers:
Containing fiber, okra is a very interesting food that reduces small appetites. Thus, if you consume okra regularly, you will feel more and more satisfied, which is very good if you want to lose weight easily.
2- Cleans the skin:
Gumbo is a versatile food, improving even the quality of the skin. Indeed, the flavonoids of okra allow it to fight against the premature aging of skin cells and limit the destructive effects of UV-B rays. Thus, you will find that your skin softens.
3-Avoid gastritis:
Okra is part of the mucilaginous food that can fight against gastritis problems. According to a 2014 study, okra prevents the absorption of H-Pylon bacteria in the intestine, which is responsible for irritations and gastric inflammations. In addition, another 2018 study indicates that okra protects against gastric disturbances and therefore reduces the risk of gastric ulcers.
Thus, dur to its many health benefits, Gumbo is a healthy food that should appear more often on our plate.
