Presently one of the most common illness is diabetes. Patients with diabetes should be very particular on what they choose to eat. Elevated blood sugar levels are a symptom of diabetes. According to researches, many natural vegetables and fruits fight diabetes. Okra often known as our own Bhindi, is one of them, says Nidhi Sahai, Head Dietetics, of Max Hospital, Vaishali.
Generally, in 100 grams of okra, have 1.3 grams of Protein, 35 calories and 0.2 grams of fat. Okra is a great source of fiber along with essential vitamins like vitamin B6, folate and rich in antioxidant. Okra is an excellent choice for those suffering with diabetes because it’s an excellent source for both soluble and insoluble fiber which takes time to digest. Sahai says soluble fiber aids in sugar stabilization.
She also mentioned that the dietitian talks about the vegetables glycemic index which is very low. Low GI food are guaranteed, steady blood sugar levels and delayed digestion of the sugar, which is realized from the food.
According to the experiences of individuals with diabetes, weight gain is one of the main issues which they have to face. Okra helps to promote good weight management, since it’s strong in fiber, it keeps an individual full for a long time and reduces cravings, she adds.
Okra is known as a “new wonder vegetable,” which controls blood sugar levels. For many years, Okra water is considered as a super drink and has many health benefits. Okra water has to be drunk, first thing in the morning, in an empty stomach, for maximum health benefits.
There are many other benefits which are associated by consuming okra, such as, lowers cholesterol, prevent constipation, reduces the risk of colorectal cancer and prevent irritable bowel syndrome. Okra seeds consists of anti- stress effect as well.
In addition to the blood glucose, lowering compounds, okra is also a vital nutrition like lutein and folate beta- carotene and a powerhouse of antioxidants. It is also highly enriched with anti- inflammatory properties which makes it a healthy addition to an ideal individuals diabetes diet.
