Okra Water: Benefits, Nutritional Information, 5 Delicious Recipes (2023)

Okra water is the latest trend in the world of health and wellness. Is this nutrient-rich water really a super drink or just a fad? We researched the benefits and nutritional information and brought you five delicious okra water recipes.

Okra, okro, gumbo, and lady finger are all names for the same humble, nutritious vegetable. Okra is a plant native to Africa but is now grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The small green okra pods are often used in soups, stews and garnishes.

This infamous slimy vegetable is now part of a new health trend: okra water. In this blog post, we'll discuss the benefits of okra water and share 5 delicious recipes that can make consuming this sticky, nutritious drink a breeze.

What is okra water?

Okra water is the latest health trend everyone is talking about. So what is okra water?

Okra water is simply water that has been soaked in okra overnight. Okra is a healthy vegetable packed with nutrients. The bark and the seeds[1]National Library of Medicine:Antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic potential ofAbelmoschus esculentus(L.) Mönch. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic ratsRaw okra is said to have anti-diabetic properties. Its mucilage content is also considered to be extremely soothing and beneficial for intestinal health. It has also been suggested that okra water can help.weight loss.

In addition, okra is a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, folic acid and manganese. Soaking the okra in water overnight allows the nutrients in the okra to infuse into the water. This makes okra water a nutrient-rich drink with many health benefits. It's no surprise, then, that okra water is a good source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help improve your overall health.

There are many health benefits associated with consuming okra water, including better digestion, better blood sugar control, better joint health, and reduced inflammation. Although studies on the benefits of this drink are still inconclusive, okra itself is a healthy vegetable packed with nutrients. So there's nothing wrong with giving okra water a try and seeing if it works for you. So if you're looking for a healthy way to improve your well-being, try okra water!

How to drink okra water?

Okra water is an easy and convenient way to get all the benefits of okra without having to eat the vegetable itself. As mentioned above, it is simply made by soaking okra pods in water overnight and then drinking that water the next day on an empty stomach.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare okra water:

  • Choose fresh okra pods that are bright green in color and free of blemishes.
  • Wash the okra well and cut them into very thin pieces.
  • Alternatively, you can pierce the ends of the okra pods with a fork.
  • Place the okra slices in a pitcher or container and fill with water.
  • Cover the jar and let sit overnight so the okra nutrients can infuse into the water.
  • The next morning, strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach.

If you're not a fan of the taste of okra water, there are other ways to drink it. Some people also like to add a squeezed lemon for extra flavor. You can add it to soups or stews, or blend it into other juices or smoothies. You can also freeze okra water into ice cubes and add them to your favorite drink. Below we will provide you with some interesting recipes that you can try using okra water quickly.

When to drink okra water?

Okra should be soaked overnight in water. Water should be consumed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Soaking overnight gives the okra time to release all of its nutrients into the water, and drinking it on an empty stomach ensures that these nutrients are more efficiently absorbed by the body.

This is not to say that okra water is not beneficial at other times of the day. There's no bad time to drink okra water, as long as you drink it regularly.

(Video) This is What Okra Does to Your Body - Dr Alan Mandell, DC

Benefits of drinking okra water

There are many potential benefits of drinking okra water. These are some of the best known:

1. It can improve heart health

One of the benefits of okra water is to improve heart health. Okra is rich in fiber and antioxidants, both of which are important for cardiovascular health. Fiber helps lower cholesterol and blood lipid levels, while antioxidants help prevent oxidative damage to cells. Okra water also has a diuretic effect, which can help reduce high blood pressure. Additionally, okra seeds contain a compound called pectin, which has been shown to help improve circulation and heart function. Okra water has been shown to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as improve HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

2. Good source of antioxidants

Okra water is a good source of antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonoids and phenolic compounds, substances that protect the body against free radical damage. Free radicals are molecules that can cause damage to cells and have been linked to a number of diseases, including cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize these free radicals, preventing them from causing damage. As a result, okra water can help reduce the risk of disease and promote overall health.

3. It can help manage diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use the insulin it produces properly. This can cause high blood sugar levels, which can harm the body over time. Okra water is rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which can help increase insulin sensitivity and help control blood sugar.

Studies[2]National Library of Medicine:Okra polysaccharide (Abelmoschus esculentus(L.) Moench) increases antioxidant capacity via PI3K/AKT pathways and Nrf2 translocation in a model of type 2 diabetesin diabetic rats showed that okra water can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This suggests that okra water may be beneficial for people with diabetes, although more research is needed. It's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment, but okra water can be a helpful addition to an existing blood sugar control plan.

4. Can boost immunity

Okra water can help boost immunity thanks to its high levels of antioxidants. These substances help fight infections and prevent damage caused by free radicals. Okra water is also a good source of vitamins C and A, both essential for a healthy immune system. Additionally, okra water contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

5. Improves digestion

Okra is rich in insoluble fiber, which helps bulk up your stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Additionally, okra is a good source of mucilage, a type of soluble fiber that forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water and gives okra water its characteristic slimy texture. This gel-like substance can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. The antioxidants in okra can prevent intestinal inflammation. In addition, okra is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. All of these nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

6. It can promote better mental health

This might seem a bit far-fetched, but okra water has been shown to improve mental health. Okra water is rich in certain nutrients that are closely related to brain health. The main one is folate or folic acid. Folate has been linked to the development of brain cells.

Additionally, the antioxidants in okra water may help protect brain cells from damage. These nutrients can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related mental decline.

Ultimately, our brain health is closely related to our gut health. As noted above, the fiber and mucilage in okra can help promote healthy bowel function. This, in turn, can ensure the efficient functioning of the gut-brain axis.[3]National Library of Medicine:The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems, which is essential for healthy brain function.

7. Can promote weight loss

Studies done in mice[4]PubMed:Okra polysaccharide improves metabolic disturbances in obese C57BL/6 mice induced by a high-fat dietwith artificially induced obesity found that okra extracts led to significant weight loss over an 8 week period. While more research is needed in this area, initial findings suggest that okra water may be a useful weight loss tool. Therefore, if you want to lose a few pounds, okra water is worth a try.

Possible risks of consuming okra water

There are some possible risks associated with consuming okra water. One of the main concerns is that okra water is rich in fructans, which can cause digestive problems in people intolerant to this type of carbohydrate. Consuming too much okra water can cause nausea and vomiting.

Some people may be allergic to okra and drinking okra water may trigger an allergic reaction in these people. While okra water offers many potential health benefits, it's important to be aware of these potential risks before consuming it.

Okra Nutritional Information

Raw okra is no slouch in the nutrition department. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)[5]TWO UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE:okra, rawNational Nutrient Database, one cup (100 grams) of raw okra contains:

(Video) Health Benefits Of Okra - Okra Benefits - Okra Water Benefits

Calories – 33 calories

Protein – 1.93 grams

Carbs – 7.45 grams

Sugar – 1.5 grams

Fiber – 3.2 grams

Fat – 0.19 grams

Okra's vitamins and minerals include:

Vitamin A – 36 mcg

Vitamin B6 - 0.215 mg

Vitamin B 11 (folate) – 60 mcg

Vitamina C – 23mg

Vitamin K – 31 mg

Sodium - 7mg

Potassium – 299 mg

(Video) Health Benefits Of Okra Water - Soaked Okra Water Benefits - Drinking Okra Water Benefits

Calcium - 82 mg

Tiamina – 0,2 mg

Ferro – 0,62 mg

Copper - 0.109 mg

Magnesium - 57 mg

Phosphorus – 61 mg

Cinco - 0,58 mg

Okra is a low-calorie food, rich in fiber and nutrients. It also contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. These properties make okra an excellent addition to any diet, especially for those trying to lose weight or manage diabetes.

Recipes and tips for making tasty okra water.

Okra water is an easy and healthy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. If you have trouble consuming this drink in the usual way, here are some recipes and tips to make okra water tastier:

1. Okra water with lemon juice

Ingredients:

  • Okra Water – 1 cup
  • lemon – 1
  • honey – optional

Steps to follow:

  1. Strain the okra water into a glass. Straining will greatly improve the texture of the drink.
  2. Add the juice of 1 lemon.
  3. Add a little honey for sweetness.
  4. Stir well and consume.

2. Okra water with orange juice

Ingredients:

  • Okra Water – 1 cup
  • Oranges – 3-4 segments
  • honey – optional

Steps to follow:

  1. Strain the okra water.
  2. Mix with orange slices and make a tasty sorbet juice.
  3. You can add ice cubes if you want it to cool down. This mixture will help with digestion.

3. Okra Water and Berry Smoothie

Ingredients:

(Video) 15 Health Benefits of Drinking Okra Water | Okra Water Benefits

  • Okra Water – 1⁄2 cup
  • Berries – 2-3 different berries
  • Yogurt – ½ cup
  • honey - to taste

Steps to follow:

  1. Choose fresh or frozen fruit of your choice
  2. Now, hit them in the blender along with some yogurt and honey.
  3. Add the okra water and beat until smooth.
  4. Serve cold.

Okra water will add a smooth texture to the smoothie and make it more filling. The berries will give it sweetness, while the yogurt will make it creamy.

4. Okra soaked in coconut water

Ingredients:

  • Quimbombo – 3-4
  • Coconut water – 1 cup

Steps to follow:

  1. Wash the okra.
  2. Cut the okra or pierce the ends.
  3. Dip the okra in a glass of coconut water. Cover with a lid and leave overnight.
  4. Drink this drink on an empty stomach.

This is a great way to give the natural flavor and nutritional benefits of okra a boost. The delicate flavor and tender coconut flavor will overpower the raw taste of okra, and all the nutrients in okra will have been infused into the coconut water.

5. Okra Green Tea for Diabetes

Ingredients:

  • Okra/lady's finger, cut into 4 tops
  • Green tea bag- 1
  • Water- 1 liter

Steps to follow:

  1. Take a bottle or jar and add the water, green tea bag and sliced ​​okra.
  2. Close the lid and refrigerate overnight.
  3. Enjoy green tea in okra water the next day.

bonus tips

If you need more ideas on how to make okra water even tastier, or if you need creative ways to add this healthy drink to your diet, here are some additional tips:

  • Add okra water to the berries when making jam or whip it into a deliciously rich, gooey mousse or fudge for added thickness and nutrition.
  • Use okra water as a natural thickener in sauces or soups. Cook okra water in a stew or soup for a thick, flavorful, and healthy broth.
  • Get creative with your recipes and add okra water while cooking your favorite dishes.

With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy okra water anytime, anywhere. So get creative and enjoy this healthy and delicious drink!

Conclusion

Okra water is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious but infamous vegetable. It's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming okra water, but when consumed in moderation, it can be a great addition to your diet. Be sure to try some of the recipes and tips above to make your okra water even tastier!

FAQs

What are the benefits of okra water recipe? ›

Okra water is made by infusing okra pods in water for 8–24 hours. While there's very little research on this drink, okra itself is highly nutritious and rich in antioxidants. Okra water may also offer several other health benefits, including promoting weight loss and blood sugar management.

What happens when you drink okra water everyday? ›

Okra is enriched with vitamins B, C, folic acid, fibre etc that may help curb your appetite further promoting weight loss. Besides, the drink may also help you stay hydrated and boost metabolism.

How long does it take okra water to work for lubrication? ›

It is recommended that cold water or warm water is used. However, boiling water should not be used because it causes the break down of the lubricating properties of the okra. Preferably, the okra should soak in the water for at least 24 hours.

What happens when you drink okra water in the morning? ›

Okra is rich with fiber, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, and Folic Acid. Okra water helps to curb your appetite. Okra Water has also been reported to help with weight loss. Okra has also been known to support in lowering blood sugar levels and is a great vegetable to add to your diet if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.

When should I start drinking okra water? ›

Add 2 cups of cut okra to medium or large size mason jar and fill the rest of jar with water and soak overnight. You can start drinking for labor preparation 2-weeks before your estimated due date and also during labor.

How many times a week should I water okra? ›

Quick Guide to Growing Okra

Okra loves the heat and can withstand a dry spell, but do your best to give plants 1 inch of water every week.

Does okra detox your body? ›

Summary. Okra is an unusual vegetable with mucilaginous properties. It has been found to soothe the digestive tract, improve detoxification, blood sugar balance, and cholesterol balance.

What is the side effect of okra to woman? ›

Eating too much okra can adversely affect some people. Gastrointestinal problems: Okra contains fructans, which is a type of carbohydrate. Fructans can cause diarrhea, gas, cramping, and bloating in people with existing bowel problems. Kidney stones: Okra is high in oxalates.

What foods make you wetter? ›

Foods high in fatty acids (Omega-3) may aid in producing additional vaginal lubrication, decrease vaginal dryness, and increase blood flow. Examples of those foods include raw pumpkin, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and fish (especially salmon, mackerel, and tuna) are great choices that are high in fatty acids.

Does okra water grow hair faster? ›

Okra is rich in vitamins A, C, and K and has calcium, potassium, and lots of other nutrients that are great for hair growth, moisturizing a dry scalp, and getting rid of dandruff.

Does okra have collagen? ›

Okra-derived micronutrients also help maintain the health of our skin. It is rich in vitamin C and collagen, making it supremely important for skin health and upkeep.

How many days can I take OKRO water? ›

Take okra water 2 weeks before ovulation and a day before ovulation. *HOW MANY DAY CAN I TAKE IT? Answer: 2-3 days.

Can okra water cure high blood pressure? ›

It lowers blood pressure

Potassium also helps relax blood vessels and arteries, which then reduces blood pressure and eases up the strain on our cardiovascular system. So, if you must gorge on lechon and crispy pata, make sure to balance it with okra and other high-potassium foods.

What does okra water do to the skin? ›

"Okra is known to have high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and many other antioxidants, making it a helpful alternative option for reducing wrinkles, helping with acne and acne scars, and reducing skin irritations and blemishes," says Lana Pinchasov, RPA-C, physician assistant at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New ...

Can okra water lower cholesterol? ›

Summary Animal research suggests that okra may bind to cholesterol in your gut and lower blood cholesterol levels. It's also rich in polyphenols, which fight harmful inflammation and protect your heart.

Is okra water good for kidneys? ›

Okra consumption alone did not promote changes in inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress in the kidney. In conclusion, ET combined or not with O seems to be beneficial in preventing the progression of renal disease when renal function is not yet altered.

Is okra good for your lungs? ›

The pods contain healthy amounts of the antioxidants beta carotene, xanthin and lutein. These compounds are essential for vision, healthy lungs and skin.

How much okra do you put in okra water? ›

Wash and cut the tops and tails off of 4-5 okra pods. Allow to sit overnight. remove okra pods and strain liquid to remove any seeds.

Is okra water a laxative? ›

Okra water is a natural laxative and contains fibre that helps to ease the bowel movements. Okra water helps the body to produce more red blood cells, which helps to treat anaemia.

How long can okra seeds soak in water? ›

Growing okra

Prior to planting, soak the okra seeds in water for 12 to 18 hours to soften its hard seed coat. Soaking aids moisture absorption and germination. Plant okra in the spring or early summer once the threat of frost has passed.

Does okra heal the gut? ›

Okra's insoluble fiber helps keep your digestive system in great shape and lubricates the large intestine. The fiber in okra also feeds the good bacteria in your gut, which promotes a healthy intestinal tract. That ultimately leads to less cramping, bloating and other unpleasant stomach problems.

Does okra affect the liver? ›

Liver health also gets a boost from okra. Again, antioxidants in okra are the major force because they help the body get rid of toxins that are harmful to the liver. Moreover, antioxidants act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents that combat liver inflammation, thereby tremendously enhancing general liver function.

Is okra good for arthritis? ›

6 side effects of okra

Joint pain: Okra contains a toxic chemical called solanine that may exacerbate symptoms such as pain and inflammation in people with joint disorders such as arthritis.

Which diseases does okra treat? ›

Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that help reduce the risk of serious health conditions like cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

Can okra affect the kidney? ›

The fiber in okra helps reduce the absorption rate of glucose which reduces blood glucose levels. Okra is useful for preventing kidney disease; patients who ate okra daily had reduced signs of kidney damage.

Does okra increase brain power? ›

Nutrition: Okra abounds in B vitamins and omega fatty acids, which enhance nervous system functioning and brainpower, by improving memory, concentration and intellect.

What foods make a woman wet? ›

Foods That Increase Female Lubrication

Experts recommend sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, apples, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids for increased lubrication, overall vaginal wetness, and better-quality naturally occurring vaginal lubrication.

Does okra make hair curly? ›

Boiling pieces of okra transforms the plant into a thin, watery mucilage that you work through your hair as a moisturizer and treatment. It won't give you the crunchy curls that alcohol-based gels deliver, but it also does not dry out your scalp, and produces soft, bouncy waves or curls.”

Can I leave okra water in my hair? ›

Because of its thick, gloopy consistency, okra gel doesn't always work well as a leave-in treatment. So if you plan on using it for hair growth, we recommend applying it as a post-wash hair mask.

How to prepare okra water for diabetes? ›

Some say that drinking "okra water" (cutting up pieces of okra, setting it in water overnight, and drinking it in the morning) can help people with diabetes lower their blood sugar.

How many okra Should I soak in water? ›

Take 4-5 medium-sized okra pods and wash it thoroughly. Cut both ends of the pods, and slice them in half. You can also use a knife and pierce each side of the pods. Now, take a cup filled with water and immerse the pods in it.

How many days can I take okra water? ›

Take okra water 2 weeks before ovulation and a day before ovulation. *HOW MANY DAY CAN I TAKE IT? Answer: 2-3 days.

How do you use okra water for wetness? ›

It is well known that women who drink okra water every morning on an empty stomach experience lubrication and increased wetness. Okra water actually helps to naturally increase the water and juices in the female body, making “intimacy” enjoyable and thrilling.

Does okra reduce diabetes? ›

Okra whole fruit supplementation has a promising anti-hyperglycemic effect in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 who received oral agents. Diabetic patients could benefit from adjuvant therapy of okra with other medication.

Does okra thicken your blood? ›

Blood clotting: Vitamin K helps the blood clot, and okra's high vitamin K content may affect those who use blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin or Coumadin. Blood thinners help prevent the formation of blood clots that can lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Is okra water good for high blood sugar? ›

Diabetes Management: Besides being rich with antioxidants, bhindi, also known as okra, is an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fibre, that takes its on time to breakdown and digest, making for an excellent pick for diabetes. Okra water can be a great option for blood sugar management.

Does okra water detox? ›

Summary. Okra is an unusual vegetable with mucilaginous properties. It has been found to soothe the digestive tract, improve detoxification, blood sugar balance, and cholesterol balance.

Can I put okra water in the fridge? ›

If you like, boil and cool the okra up to 1 day in advance. Put the boiled okra and its water into the refrigerator until you're ready to make the punch.

Is okra water good for liver? ›

Liver health also gets a boost from okra. Again, antioxidants in okra are the major force because they help the body get rid of toxins that are harmful to the liver. Moreover, antioxidants act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents that combat liver inflammation, thereby tremendously enhancing general liver function.

What does okra do to your stomach? ›

Okra's insoluble fiber helps keep your digestive system in great shape and lubricates the large intestine. The fiber in okra also feeds the good bacteria in your gut, which promotes a healthy intestinal tract. That ultimately leads to less cramping, bloating and other unpleasant stomach problems.

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