Okra which is otherwise referred to as bhindi or ladies fingers in some parts of the world is a flowering plant with seed pods and it has got a scientific name which is Abelmoschus esculentus. With its increasing popularity in different parts of the world, okra is used in dishes as an ingredient in soup and as side dishes.
It has Various benefits, ranging from its ability to improve vision, strengthen bones,protect heart health, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol,aid the digestive system, lower blood pressure and improve the skin.
It is highly rich in certain amount of minerals as iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc, vitamins such as vitamin A,B,C,E, and K as well as some organic compounds such as mucilaginous fiber
HEALTH BENEFITS OF OKRA
The health benefits of Okra are as follows, in case you’re wondering just how they function.
IMPROVED VISION
Due to its vitamin A content and its anti-oxidant properties which includes beta-carotene, xanthein and lutein, Okra serves as a vision booster since it contains antioxidants which destroys and neutralizes free radicals responsible for the degradation of the cells in the body; protecting the eyes against macular degeneration and cataracts.
AIDS DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Okra contains some mucilaginous fiber which aids the movement of food through the digestive tract, it also lowers the risk of gastrointestinal issues ranging from constipation, cramping, bloating and excess gas. It also helps to get rid of diarrhea and reduce body cholesterol.
BOOSTS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
The presence of the antioxidant properties enables Okra to fight off free radicals in the body while its vitamin C content boosts and stimulates the immune system so as to create white blood cells, hence combating with foreign pathogens and materials in the body affecting the immune system.
SKIN HEALTH
The vitamin A present in Okra helps it to protect the skin, healing the various skin scars, and getting rid of skin problems such as scars, acne and wrinkles since the antioxidants are also capable of neutralizing free radicals that can cause skin damage.
IT LOWERS THE RISK OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND PROMOTES HEART HEALTH
The considerable amount of potassium present in Okra, helps to balance and maintain body fluid, it also helps to relax blood vessels and arteries thereby reducing blood pressure and strain on cardiovascular system.
While okra can be enjoyed in desired style as any form of dish, it contains oxalates which could affect the gallstones or kidney. it could be enjoyed in various forms excluding frying.
[naijapr]
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