A universally used versatile vegetable called okra, it is characterized by its green color, elongated and tapering ridged pods filled with a double row of seeds, and a slimy texture when cut open. This integral member of the cotton family is native to the Nile region of North Africa and the Middle East, having been discovered as early as 3,500 years ago in Ethiopia. The early Egyptians were known to love its taste. Okra later transcended to North America in the slave trade and then to Europe, Asia, and South and Central America.
In addition to being low in calories, it is rich in vitamins A, thiamin, B6, C, folic acid, riboflavin, calcium, zinc and fiber. The consumption of okra is highly recommended for pregnant women, among other things, because it is rich in folic acid, which is necessary for the formation of the neural tube of the fetus during the 4-12 weeks of pregnancy in the mother's womb.
Explore the revelations of leading nutrition experts
o The mucilage and fiber contained in okra helps regulate blood sugar levels by regulating its absorption in the small intestine.
o Fiber from okra has many excellent properties in maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
o Assists in reabsorption of water and traps excess cholesterol, metabolic toxins and excess bile in its mucus and flushes them out in the stool. Thanks to the higher percentage of water in the volume, it prevents constipation, gas and flatulence in the abdomen.
o It is an ideal vegetable for weight loss and is a storehouse of health benefits if cooked on low heat to preserve its properties. This is also to ensure that the priceless slime contained within is not lost by the high heat.
o Okra facilitates the growth of good bacteria known as probiotics. These are similar to those that proliferate yogurt in the small intestine and help the biosynthesis of vitamin B complex.
o To add bounce to the hair. Boil the horizontally sliced okra until the pickle is as slimy as possible. Cool and add a few drops of lemon and use it as a final rinse and watch your hair return to its youthful appearance and bounce.
o Okra is an excellent laxative, treats irritated intestines, heals ulcers and soothes the gastrointestinal tract.
o The protein and oil contained in okra seeds serve as a source of quality vegetable protein. It is enriched with amino acids such as tryptophan, cystine and other sulfur amino acids.
