Dr. Andrea Middleton - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Andrea Middleton

Is Okra Bad For You?

Also Known As: okro, ladies' fingers, bhindi, bamia, ochro, gumbo


Grade

A


Short answer

Okra is great for you! If you want to be sure you are getting the proper nutrients in your diet, try to add some okra.

Grade

A

Recommended Alternative


Long answer

Okra - perhaps better known as gumbo - is a vegetable that is originally from Northeast Africa. It is quite possibly one of the best vegetables out there and a great substitute for people who can't eat kiwis but want its health benefits. 

Okra is high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber. It also contains important nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, and iron. Vitamin A is known to be good for the eyes and skin. Vitamin C not only helps the immune system, it also promotes healthy skin and may help prevent asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Vitamin K is necessary for proper calcium transport, being essential for proper bone health and preventing disease like osteoporosis. For pregnant women who eat okra, folate helps ensure a safe pregnancy and that the child does not develop disorders such as spina bifida. The fiber content is important not just in maintaining good colon health, but also in stabilizing blood sugar levels and controlling the amount of sugar absorbed by the body, making okra effective in preventing and possibly treating diabetes. 

Furthermore, with only 30 calories per 100 grams and no cholesterol, okra does not suffer any drawbacks. It really is hard to find something better for your health. 



Benefits

  • helps prevent and treat diabetes
  • helps with weight loss
  • helps strengthen the immune system
  • helps ensure a healthy pregnancy
  • helps maintain colon and digestive health

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Fresh Florida Okra

  • Locally grown produce
  • High in fiber
  • Rich in vitamins
  • Antioxidant properties
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 02-21-2016
Last updated: 12-15-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Jeff Volling
Published on: 02-21-2016
Last updated: 12-15-2023




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