It can be overwhelming to keep up with all the latest health hacks that promise you glowing skin and everlasting vitality. From green juice recipes to IV vitamin drips, the list goes on and on.
Okra water is the latest to come of those trends, promising to deliver weight loss and digestive benefits. Is this trend the real deal or just another sensationalized internet obsession? Let’s uncover the facts behind okra water benefits.
What Is Okra?
A flowering plant also commonly known as lady fingers, okra has made itself a staple in cuisines around the world. While its geographical origin is yet to be agreed upon, okra naturally roots in West Africa, Ethiopia and Southeast Asia.
Okra can be traced back to ancient times, with carved images of it found on Pharaonic temples as the Greek and Roman eras passed through Egypt. The plant was introduced to the Americas during the Atlantic slave trade, soon becoming one of the three thickeners used in Louisiana’s famous gumbo soup.
Its pods are eaten cooked, pickled, raw or diced in salads, used in developing countries to alleviate malnutrition and food insecurity. With a unique texture and taste, many prefer to drink okra water rather than eat it, an easier and tastier alternative without compromising on the okra water benefits.
What are the Okra Water Benefits?
High in vitamin C, okra water can do a ton to boost your immune health and fight against infections and diseases, but the benefits go much deeper.
Like bone broth, okra water can be helpful for those working to manage their weight. Carbs extracted from okra have been proven to decrease body weight and cholesterol. Similarly, okra water is a natural laxative and incredibly hydrating, helping to reduce mindless snacking and temporarily boost metabolism.
Antioxidants are also key to thriving health, and okra water happens to be especially rich in them. With plenty of quercetin, kaempferol and manganese, these minerals aid in reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic health conditions like diabetes and cancer.
If blood sugar management is a concern, okra water benefits include stabilizing blood sugar levels, according to some studies. It has insulin resistance properties, which can also aid in hormonal regulation.
How to Incorporate Okra Water
Similar to celery juice, it’s recommended to drink okra water first thing in the morning. Though you’d still receive health benefits no matter when you drink it, an empty stomach helps the body absorb all of its benefits much more completely.
If you intend to make okra water yourself, it’s an easier process than you may think. The process is as simple as soaking okra pods or thin slices of okra in water overnight and squeezing any leftover sap from the pods into the infused water. If you’d prefer the convenience of already having it done, there are plenty of prepackaged brands.
Health is Wealth
There’s no better investment to make than the one in your health. If you’re lacking in any particular vitamins or minerals, or are simply looking for new ways to boost your immune health and improve your vitality, okra water benefits can supplement all of your needs in an easy and delicious way.