Natural Remedies: Diabetes vs.Okra

Okra

It is usually referred to as ladyfingers, bhindi, bamia, or gumbo, or by its biological names Hibiscus esculentus and Abelmoschus esculentus.

Okra is fast gaining a reputation as a so-called 'superfood' for individuals with or at risk of diabetes or cancer. It is recognized to have a helpful effect on blood sugar control, among many other health benefits.

Okra or Ladyfingers

What is okra?

Okra is a tall-growing, warm-season, annual vegetable from the same family as hollyhock,
rose of Sharon and hibiscus that traces its origin from ancient Ethiopia (Abyssinia) through to Eastern Mediterranean, India, the Americas and the Caribbean. 

The immature pods are widely used for soups, canning and stews or as a fried or boiled vegetable. 

These tender pods are very low in calories, providing just around 30 calories per 100 g, and contain no saturated fats or cholesterol. Nonetheless, they are rich sources of dietary fiber, minerals, and vitamins completely non-toxic, and have no adverse side effects; often recommended by nutritionists in cholesterol controlling and weight reduction programs.

How can it help treat diabetes?

Evidence of okra having anti-diabetic properties has increased in recent years, with multiple laboratory studies confirming okra as a effective blood glucose-lowering (or anti-diabetic) food. 

In one study, it found out that diabetic mice fed dried and ground okra peels and seeds experienced a reduction in their blood glucose levels, while others showed a gradual decrease in blood glucose following regular feeding of okra extract for about ten days.

Outside of laboratory research, many people with diabetes have reported declining blood sugar levels after soaking cut-up okra pieces in water overnight and then drinking the juice in the morning.

Okra Juice

Behind this effect is the higher insoluble fiber contained in okra which is believed to help stabilize blood glucose by reducing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract. 

Other health benefits

For the reason that okra is a rich source of dietary fibre, important vitamins and minerals, and powerful antioxidants, the vegetable is known to be beneficial for health in a number of ways. These include: 

• Lowering cholesterol
• Preventing and improving constipation
• Improving energy levels and improving symptoms of depression
• Reducing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colorectal cancer
• Helping to treat sore throat, irritable bowel, ulcers and lung inflammation 

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