According to many people it is said that the okra has the
name of the lady’s finger due to the fact that it is very healthy and has of
late been realized to have many benefits of it. One of the mentioned reasons
for this is that okra can be beneficial in certain ways to a patient with
diabetes. In this blog, we would like to discuss how okra might be of use or a
help to a diabetic person, whether any kind of danger can be present regarding
consumption, and the way of induction into one's diet.
Okra is known as a green vegetable in the pod form and is
incorporated in the cookery activities across the global countries. It is very
rich in vitamins, minerals and fibers; therefore has confirmed nutritional
value. This vegetable, traditionally, has been used to a high value in its
medicinal property of maintaining blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Value of Okra
Next, let us discuss the implications of okra as a food in the management of diabetes, taking a quick look at its nutrient profile. Okra contains the following nutrients in adequate proportion;
Vitamins: Okra is quite rich in vitamins C, A, and K.
Minerals: amounts of the Magnesium, Potassium, and Calcium are found to be
good in the Juice.
Fiber: Okra is rich in dietary fibre of which a large portion is soluble
dietary fibre.
Low Calorie: Okra is recognized to be low in calories and is very much
preferred for weight control.
How Okra Cures Diabetes?
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
The major reason why okra is likely to have a positive impact
on diabetic people is that it helps to balance the blood sugar and bring it to
even level. Soluble fiber helps in a way of supporting the process of slowing the digestion of sugar in the intestines. In other words, post-meal, your blood
sugar level may rise very gradually and not shoot up.
Antioxidants
Okra contains various types of antioxidants, such as
flavonoids and polyphenols, which help to reduce oxidative stress usually
tend to be more within diabetic patients. And because of this very quality of
fighting oxidative stress, okra could bring people closer to a healthy life and
probably keep their sugar under control.
Controls Body Weight
The ability to maintain weight is very crucial in the
management of diabetes. Okra is a vegetable with low-calorie content and high
fibre; as such, it keeps one full for long and reduces the chances of
overeating and hence supports his/her weight reduction initiatives.
May Improve Insulin Sensitivity
Some studies have been able to prove that okra can improve
insulin sensitivity. In other words, insulin sensitivity is very key in
maintaining a low level of blood sugar through function. When there is good
insulin sensitivity, it will mean your body can use insulin better to keep the
levels of blood sugar steady.
Aids Digestion
Okra is also packed with fiber, ensuring digestion is easy
and healthy. Healthy digestion, due to the fact that it regulates the speed at
which sugars enter the bloodstream, can provide an improvement in the metabolic
process, so important sometimes for blood sugar control.
May Reduce Inflammation
Okra contains anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce
inflammation within the body. Chronic inflammation has been seen to contribute
to insulin resistance and complications most associated with diabetes.
Low Glycemic Index
Okra contains low levels of the glycemic index, which do not
raise or change the blood sugar levels suddenly. Generally, a low GI food is
useful in diets related to diabetes management.
View More: 9 Amazing Benefits Of Okra Water To Females Sexually
Risks To Consider That Are Associated
Although okra has numerous advantages, some side effects
should also be considered. Among them are the following:
1. Allergies
People are allergic to okra. This vegetable causes
itchiness, swelling, and some problems in the gastrointestinal tract.
Therefore, if it were to be the first time one tried okra, it would be worth
taking a little and waiting to see what might happen with the reaction of the
body.
2. Content of Oxalate
Okra also includes oxalates, chemicals that increase the
risk of kidney stone formation in certain people. Anyone who has ever had a
formation of a kidney stone should consult with their health professional
before large intakes of okra are begun.
3. Medication Interactions
This is especially true for the intake of medications for
diabetes, as it is already more important to monitor your blood sugar levels
closer once you add okra into your diet. Okra may increase the effects of these
medications against diabetes and cause hypoglycemia. Always make it a point to
consult your doctor before such major dietary changes.
Some Of The Ways To Consume
It is easy to make and very eatable once you incorporate
okra into your diet. Here are some of the easiest and most delicious ways to
consume okra:
1. Stir Fried
Stir-fry sliced okra, onions, and garlic with any spice for
an easy, tasty, and healthy side dish. In this way, you would mix a few flavors
without harm to the nutrient content of the vegetable.
2. Soups and Stews
Add okra to soups and stews for added texture and nutrition.
Okra will help thicken the broth; hence, it is great in gumbo or vegetable
soup.
3. Roasting
Roast in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and your
favorite seasonings.
4. Salads
It can be cut raw and added to salads for that crunch. With
tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, it will be nice, and refreshing.
5. Smoothies
Make a different touch by adding a little portion of cooked
okra into your smoothie blender. It adds fiber but doesn't change the taste so
much.
How To Make Okra Water?
Okra water has been gaining great popularity in the recent
past and can be said to be a different kind of drink made by soaking or
boiling okra. Here is how to prepare it:
Ingredients
Fresh okra pods 3-4 Water 2 cups Directions Clean the Okra: Clean
the okra properly. Soaking or Boiling: Soaking Method Cut edges of the okra,
set in the glass of water to sit overnight, then strain the following day.
Boiling Method Boil okra in water till it reaches around 10 minutes, strain, and
cool. Consume water as a refreshment.
Conclusion
Okra could be part of the diet that a diabetic patient
consumes, possibly due to certain benefits derived from its consumption, blood
sugar regulation, antioxidative properties, and being helpful in weight
management. However, there are certain risks that must be considered, including
the possibility of an allergic reaction or any past kidney stones issue.
Whether roasted, or made into okra water, it is
relatively easy and delicious to incorporate into your meals. This humble
vegetable will see you through to the other side of health.
Please book an appointment with the best Diabetologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
