Okra, also known as lady's fingers or bhindi, is a nutritious and versatile vegetable belonging to the Mallow family (Malvaceae), according to Wikipedia. It's cultivated globally in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions, with its origins traced back to East Africa. India leads the world in okra production.

Nutritional value

Okra is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including:

Vitamin K

Vitamin C

Folate

Magnesium

Fiber

A 100g serving of raw okra provides approximately 33 calories, 7g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 3g fiber.

Health benefits

Okra is associated with various potential health benefits, including:

Heart health: May help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease due to its soluble fiber content and antioxidants like polyphenols.

Blood sugar management: Okra may help prevent sugar from being absorbed during digestion, potentially benefiting blood sugar control.

Digestive health: Its fiber content promotes healthy digestion and may help prevent constipation and potentially reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Bone health: Okra is a good source of calcium and vitamin K, both crucial for strong bones.

Anticancer potential: Research suggests that compounds like lectin and flavonoids in okra may inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells, according to Healthline. However, more human research is needed to confirm these findings.

Beneficial during pregnancy: Okra is a good source of folate, which is essential for reducing the risk of neural tube defects in developing fetuses.