Did you come across videos of people drinking that slimy green drink and ask yourself, what is okra water? Well, you are not alone. This easy-to-make drink which involves soaking okra in water overnight has gone to viral status. With its possible skin care benefits to the healthy gut, it has been touted to increase wellness by enthusiasts on both TikTok and Instagram. But what do they say who are learned?
So what is okra water, what are all the people drinking okra water actually doing, and what are potential perks that could be lurking behind the trend?
What Is Okra Water and How Do You Make It?
Okra water is a simple, straightforward one. You cut some fresh okra pods, put them in the water and leave them there all-day-long (and/or overnight), filter out the solid part, and consume the liquid (the so-called ladyfinger water).
Others require that di yu be slowly simmered in boiled water, although infusions that are cold are more typical. This creates a drink that is a little runny with a viscous texture that is full of mucilage (sticky plant components), vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and soluble dietary fiber.
Healthy Okra Water Benefits Reported by Experts & Research
Antioxidant-Rich and Nutrient-Rich
Okra water has low nutrient content levels compared to eating the entire vegetable but soaking the vegetable still derives some of nutrients such as vitamins like C and K, folate, magnesium, calcium and antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols which combat through oxidation stress
Satiety and Digestive Health
It is among the most admired okra water benefits because of its mucilage composition. This soluble fiber is a kind of soft gel in the digestive system that relaxes the bowel and promotes the natural evacuation of the bowel. Small but significant numbers of users say they have less bloating and more gut comfort, which is great news, especially to those who are constipated or irregular bowel movements
Heart and Blood Sugar Wellness
It has also been shown in studies that okra can diminish the rate of sugar absorption in the digestive system which may help stabilize levels of blood sugar, as it may benefit individuals with diabetes or prediabetes.
Hydration, Skin and Immune Effects
The consumption of okra water aids in keeping the body hydrated especially due to its mucilage and electrolyte components. It is able to enhance skin hydration and elasticity of the skin with vitamin C and other antioxidants stimulating collagen synthesis and prevention of oxidative stress due to aging
New Use as a Prebiotic
Okra mucilage is considered a prebiotic because it provides nutrition to probiotics and other good bacteria in our guts and assists in supporting a healthy microbiome. Such a favorable effect on the intestines will be able to positively affect the absorption of nutrients, calm inflammation, and other positive effects on the whole digestive tract.
Potential Downsides & Safety Tips
Differing Levels of Nutrients
Okra water is less nutritious than whole okra as it simply contains the water. You can lose protein, insoluble fiber and other plant compounds that are retained in the solid pods.
Gastrointestinal Upset & Food Allergies
It is well tolerated by most, but you may get gassiness, bloating or upset stomach with a large amount of it, especially if you are sensitive to fructans or high fiber foods. Other people complain of mild allergies of itching or swelling.
Kidney or Electrolyte Imbalance
Okra also carries oxalates and other substances that in large quantities can inhibit the role of minerals in the body. Individuals who have stone disease of the kidney or electrolyte problems are advised to eat small quantities and check with a doctor.
How to Make & Use Okra Water Safely
- Select fresh and organic okras and wash them.
- Cut 45 pods and pour 2-3 cups of water (the best will be left overnight).
- In order to obtain the liquid, squeeze pods in the morning, and strain it.
- Consume 1 cup on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, to get the best result.
- Begin with one or two times a week; restrict to prevent digestive distress or nutrient toxicities
It can be enriched juicing it with lemon juice or combined with herbal tea, lemon again adds the vitamin C and aids detoxification.
Why You Might Give It a Try
Okra water is not the magical elixir but it is a cheap, easy effort of trying out some of the possible appeals such as improved digestion, slight detox potential, weight control, and hydration all based on the nutritional content of okra pods.
It can help stabilize your blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, improve the health of your gut, or just be another attempt at the new wellness practice–it is worth trying. It will only make your body react and it is well to be cautious.
Final Thoughts
Okra water is a low-carb, plant-based beverage that is full of soluble fiber, antioxidants, and mucilage that helps them be hydrated. It can provide mild digestion, blood sugar balancing, heart, appetite, and skin well being assistance. Although scientific facts remain limited and the effects on different people differ, the tendency remains an attraction to many who seek natural ways of improving their wellness.
Approach it with curiosity, not expectation. However, give a sampling of a small dose and see how you react and consider it as a possible supplement-not a replacement- in a healthy diet and style of life.
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