Okra is also known by the names of “lady finger” and “gumbo”. It is a green colored plant and belongs to the mallow family. The plant of okra contains numerous seeds. It grows around 2 meters tall and the fruit (okra) around 18 cm long. It is mainly grown in the subtropical countries as it needs warm temperature for optimum growth.
It is widely known for its culinary and nutritional value. Egyptians love okra and use it widely in many dishes. Okra is low in calories, and rich in fiber, vitamin B, C, Thiamin, B6, potassium, riboflavin, calcium, and folic acid.
Studies on Okra for Diabetes:
Okra contains a fiber called Eugenol which helps in setting down the glucose levels by controlling the rate at which sugar is ingested from the intestinal tract.
Medical studies which prove that okra can bring down the sugar level are still in the initial stages but even then they have showed promising results. One important point to note is okra is effective in case of all three types: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
In 2011, a study was published in ISRN pharmaceutics. It was conducted on rats that had Diabetes. The okra was soaked in water before the experiment. One group of rats was given the solution while the other group was given a solution of Na-carboxymethylcellulose (CMC – cellulose gum). The results showed that the rats who consumed okra witnessed reduced absorption of glucose in their body.
Another study was published in the same year in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences. This experiment went on for 28 days and rats were given okra peel extracts and seeds powder. A significant reduction in blood sugar levels was observed amongst the rats that received the powder. The seed extract provided higher reduction in blood sugar than the peels. It was also observed that the raised lipids profile of the affected rats came back to normal.
One another study was conducted on pregnant rats that had gestational diabetes. They were given roasted okra seeds and it was seen that over a period their blood sugar levels came down.
Okra Recipe for Diabetes
Take 1 glass of water and two medium size okra. Slit the okra and soak it in water overnight. Next morning drink this water empty stomach. Try not to eat anything for the next half an hour.
You will start noticing results in 2 weeks. Keep continuing and consult your doctor if you want to decrease any other regular treatment that you were having alongside.
This not only balances the blood sugar level but also lubricates bones and muscles, gives strength and keeps the stomach cold. It also reduces burning sensation.
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