Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known as ochra/okra in English speaking countries, is a watering plant in the mallow family. In India, it’s known as ladyfinger or bhindi in Hindi. It contains edible seedpods and is valued for the nutrients it contains. It’s grown in humid and hot places around the world. Okra is famous for helping with blood sugar level and diabetes. Although, disliked by many for the gooey consistency, bhindi has various benefits we didn’t know about. Corn Benefits and Nutrition: Is it Healthy to Eat Bhutta? 5 Myths Busted.

Here are reasons why you should befriend okra instead of running away from it. How to Enjoy Sex in Your Old Age: Tips for Having Pleasurable Intercourse After Menopause.

How Ladyfinger Reduces Blood Sugar

In a study conducted in 2011 by the Journal of Pharmacy & BioAllied Sciences, researchers in India found out okra worked in reducing blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. People with blood sugar issues experimented with okra on a daily basis and noticed a positive shift in their blood sugar levels. The patients informed cutting up okra, soaking it in water and then drinking the water the next morning helped reduce their blood sugar level. In Turkey, roasted okra seeds have been used as diabetes medicine for ages.

Other Benefits of Bhindi or Okra

Okra is great for weight loss due to high water and fibre content. Fibre is known to help throw out dirt from the body. The water content level helps one lose weight. Fruits and vegetables with higher water content are great for weight loss. Okra keeps you full for longer and you don’t get hungry fast, while providing the nutrients you need.

Raw okra is 90 percent water. Which is very close to watermelon which is 91.45 percent water. Fruits and vegetables with high water content are great for hydration. If you’re someone who struggles to drink the recommended amount of water every day, try inculcating okra in your diet.

Okra can be prepared in many ways to change the consistency, if that’s one of your issues with the veggies. It can be made as a snack as well as the main course. Pick your style preference and add Okra to your diet today!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2019 08:32 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).