Okra, also known as lady's finger, is a vegetable that is often used in dishes around the world. 100 grams of okra, without salt, frozen, drained, cooked and boiled, contains 28 calories. This low-calorie value makes okra a great addition to any diet.

Aside from being low in calories, okra is also a good source of nutrients. It is high in fiber, which helps in digestion and also keeps you feeling full for longer periods of time. Additionally, okra is low in fat and a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the benefits of adding okra to your diet and how you can incorporate it into your cooking.

High in Fiber

One of the biggest benefits of okra is that it is high in fiber. In fact, one cup of okra contains 3 grams of fiber. This high fiber content helps promote digestive health and can reduce the risk of developing digestive problems like constipation and bloating. Additionally, fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Overall, adding okra to your diet can help improve your digestive health and promote heart health.

Low in Fat

For those looking to reduce their fat intake, okra is a great option. Compared to other vegetables, okra is very low in fat. It contains just 0.1 grams of fat per cup. This low-fat content also makes okra a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can help reduce your fat intake and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Low in Calories

As mentioned earlier, okra is very low in calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake while still feeling full and satisfied. In addition to being low in calories, okra also contains a good amount of nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Overall, adding okra to your meals can help you stay within your daily calorie limit while still getting the nutrients your body needs.

Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Okra contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health. One cup of okra contains 40% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C and 14% of your daily recommended intake of potassium. Additionally, okra is high in antioxidants which can help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can provide a wide range of health benefits and help keep your body functioning at its best.

Suitable for Vegetarian Diet

Okra is a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. It is a good source of protein and other nutrients that are essential for maintaining good health. In addition to being suitable for vegetarian diets, okra is also a great option for those with food allergies or intolerances, as it is gluten-free and low in common allergens. Overall, okra is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people with different dietary needs and preferences.

May Improve Digestion

One of the biggest benefits of okra is its high fiber content, which can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive problems like constipation and bloating. Additionally, okra contains mucilage, a type of fiber that can help soothe and protect the digestive system. This can be particularly helpful for those with inflammatory bowel disease or other digestive disorders. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can be an effective way to improve your digestion and promote overall digestive health.

May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels

Okra is also a great option for those looking to control their blood sugar levels. Its high fiber content can help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of blood sugar spikes and crashes. Additionally, okra contains compounds like quercetin and isoquercetin, which have been shown to have anti-diabetic properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can be an effective way to manage and control blood sugar levels, particularly for those with type 2 diabetes.

Can Be Used in Various Dishes

Okra is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide range of dishes. It can be added to soups, stews, curries, and stir-fries, or roasted or grilled as a side dish. One popular dish that features okra is gumbo, a traditional stew from Louisiana that is made with okra, tomatoes, and other vegetables and served over rice. Overall, adding okra to your meals can be a great way to add flavor and variety while still getting all the health benefits it has to offer.

Easy and Quick to Prepare

Another great thing about okra is that it is easy and quick to prepare. It can be boiled, roasted, grilled, or sautéed in just a few minutes and can be added to a wide range of dishes. Additionally, frozen okra is widely available and can be a convenient option for those short on time or looking to save money. Overall, incorporating okra into your meals can be a simple and easy way to boost your nutrition and improve your health.

Can Be Stored for Future Use

Finally, okra can be stored for future use, making it a great option for meal prep and busy weeknights. Fresh okra can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, while frozen okra can be stored for several months in the freezer. Overall, incorporating okra into your diet can be a great way to simplify your meal planning and make healthy eating more convenient.