A healthy blood sugar level is important for our overall health. We must be aware that high blood sugar levels can lead to prediabetes and Type-2 diabetes. Lifestyle modifications involving exercise and diet are essential for optimal blood sugar control.
There are readily available vegetables that may have the potential in diabetes control. One of these vegetables is okra.
Okra And Blood Sugar
Okra is high in fiber which is an important part of dietary treatment options for diabetes. Increased dietary fiber intake has been shown to promote better glycemic control and improve insulin sensitivity.
A study in mice showed that eating okra or okra extract may help decrease blood sugar levels.
Likewise, a separate 2011 animal study published in ISRN Pharmaceutics also revealed that rats were given liquid sugar and purified okra experienced fewer blood sugar spikes than animals in the control group. The study’s authors believe that the okra solution had blocked the absorption of sugar in the intestines.
Furthermore, the results of a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences points to a link between okra and lower blood sugar levels. A powdered okra peel extract and seed doses of up to 2,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight were given to the rats. After 28 days, researchers found that the rats had reduced blood sugar levels.
Though more research is needed, the “widespread use” of okra may benefit people with diabetes, according to a 2016 review published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Science.
How To Consume Okra
- Drinking Okra water – Simply put thin slices of okra pods in water and soak them overnight. Some of the valuable nutrients in the skin and seed pods will be absorbed into the water. Drinking this water solution is a quick and simple way to derive the benefits of okra without eating it.
- Add okra into soups and stews.
- Dry out okra pods and season them with sea salt to make a tasty snack to satisfy a craving for crunch.
In addition to its possible positive effects on diabetic patients, okra may also offer a range of health benefits. It may help reduce cholesterol levels, improve the immunity system, boost antioxidants in the body, nourish red blood cells to prevent the risk of kidney failure, and even lower our risk of cancer.
