Okra a day keeps the doctor away

What you need to know:

  • A good filler food, okra not only curbs hunger but keeps you from getting tired. Experiment with okra water, peels, and powdered seeds to see what suits you best.

Okra is a flowering plant that is known in many parts of the world as ladies’ fingers. Until a few years ago, this plant was hardly consumed in Uganda although it is hugely consumed in Ethiopia and West Africa.
It is believed to have innumerable health benefits and is a rich source of essential minerals and vitamins that keep your body healthy and sound.
Esther Kugonza, who is diabetic, started using Okra in 2015 after her doctor recommended it to her. In addition to issues with her blood pressure, Kugonza says she was experiencing terrible bloating and indigestion.
“I bought a kilo of okra from Tuskys took it home, cut it pieces which I put in my three litres of water overnight and drunk it in the morning. Although at first it was hard to drink because of its slimy nature, I was encouraged by my decreasing blood sugar levels and relief from bloating. Since then I have consumed okra daily and I am healthier than before,” Kugonza reveals.

Diabetes
Sheila Karungi, a nutritionist, confirms that okra is good for diabetics and for the digestive system in general.
“Eight medium-sized okra are estimated to contain three grammes of fibre. This fibre helps absorb glucose from the intestine and distributes it to cell organs all over the body. By preventing glucose accumulation, the blood glucose remains at a normal level,” Karungi explains.

Weight loss
Irene Mangeni says she uses okra for weight loss. “I usually take a glass of okra juice at lunch time when I am too busy to make a healthy meal for myself. It keeps me feeling full until I get home for supper. I have seen tremendous weight loss since I started consuming it,” Mangeni says. “Okra is rich in fibre content which in addition to keeping someone feeling full, helps move food through the digestive tract by adding bulk. This further ensures faster bowel movements and reduced gastrointestinal problems such as gas, bloating and constipation,” Karungi adds.
It is also rich in potassium which is necessary to maintain proper fluid balance in the body as it balances sodium it also helps to relax the blood vessels and arteries which further reduces blood pressure and in turn strengthens the cardiovascular system.
The abundant antioxidants in okra help fight free radicals, which are known to destroy body cells. Also, the presence of high amounts of vitamin C helps boost immunity as it creates white blood cells in the body. White blood cells help combat infection and build immunity.
With all these amazing benefits, Kugonza says okra is still hard to consume because of its slimy nature. She suggests drying it before cooking to minimise the slime. Adding some vinegar or lemon to the salad also helps reduce slime.