Okra is a warm-season vegetable that is often referred to as gumbo or ladies' fingers. It is a good source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Okra is typically used in cooking as a vegetable even though it is technically a fruit according to biology. It has a syrupy fluid inside that people use to make sauces thicker. Okra is an unusual vegetable with a moderate flavor and a fuzz-like exterior resembling peach and small, edible seeds are contained within the pod. While okra might not be a regular ingredient in your kitchen, cooking it is rather simple. Look for smooth, soft green pods without brown patches or dried ends when buying okra. Before cooking, keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days.

It is one of the least popular foods yet is very nutritious and has a remarkable nutritional profile. It is nutrient-dense that is particularly high in vitamins C and K and this fruit stands out because it offers protein, a component that many other fruits and vegetables lack. Moreover, antioxidants found in abundance in okra may lower your risk of developing major illnesses, stop inflammation, and improve general health. The polyphenols it contains, in particular, may support heart and brain function. Additionally, consuming okra has been associated with blood sugar regulation. However, some evidence indicates that it might conflict with widely used diabetes drugs. Pregnant women on the other hand who eat okra may be able to achieve their daily folate requirements as folate is crucial for preventing abnormalities of the neural tube.

Like certain other fruits, okra is generally a healthy addition to the diet for most individuals. As with any food or vitamin, it is better to consume it in moderation and as part of a varied, balanced diet. Okra may have negative effects; thus, some people should consult a doctor before eating it.

PDO I- Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND

References:

Health Benefits of Okra

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-okra

7 Nutrition and Health Benefits of Okra

https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/19-high-protein-vegetables

Benefits and Uses of Okra

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311977#_noHeaderPrefixedContent