3/4 cup (84 g) All Natural Cut Okra is a low calorie snack option that you don't want to miss. With only 30 calories per serving, it's a great way to satisfy your hunger without overindulging. Okra is also packed with nutrients and health benefits that make it a smart choice for your diet.

In just one serving, you can get 2 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams of protein, and 35% of your daily vitamin C needs. Okra is also a good source of vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium. Its high fiber content helps regulate digestion, while its low glycemic index may help with blood sugar control.

If you haven't tried okra before, you may be surprised at how versatile it is in cooking. It can be roasted, grilled, stir-fried, or even pickled. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of okra and how to use it in your favorite dishes.

Low Calorie Snack Option

As mentioned before, okra is a low calorie snack option that is great for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. You can snack on it raw or cooked, making it a convenient option for a midday treat. Instead of reaching for potato chips or candy, try some sliced okra with hummus, tzatziki, or salsa. It's a satisfying and crunchy snack that won't derail your health goals.

Packed with Nutrients

Okra is not only low in calories, but also high in nutrients. It's a good source of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin K. It also contains antioxidants that may help protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Okra's high fiber content is especially beneficial for digestion. It can help prevent constipation and regulate bowel movements. The soluble fiber in okra may also help lower cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids in the digestive tract.

Great Addition to Soups and Stews

Okra is a popular ingredient in many soups and stews, especially in Southern and West African cuisine. Its mild flavor and slimy texture make it perfect for thickening and adding depth to broths. You can add okra to gumbo, jambalaya, or chicken soup for an extra kick of flavor and nutrition. It pairs well with other vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Versatile in Cooking

Besides soups and stews, okra can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be grilled or roasted as a side dish, or stir-fried with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and eggplant. You can also bread and fry okra for a crispy appetizer, or mix it with cornmeal and bake it into a savory bread. Okra is even used as a thickener in some desserts, like puddings and pies.

Filling and Satisfying

Okra's high fiber and protein content make it a filling and satisfying food. It can help you stay full longer and avoid overeating. It also has a low glycemic index, which means it won't cause a spike in blood sugar levels. If you're looking for a meatless meal option, try an okra and tomato curry, or a grilled okra and mushroom skewer. You'll be surprised at how satisfying and flavorful it can be.

Gluten-free

Okra is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. You can use it as a substitute for gluten-containing ingredients like bread crumbs or flour. Some gluten-free okra recipes to try include okra chips, okra fritters, or okra and chickpea salad. Get creative with your cooking and explore new flavors and textures.

Boosts Digestion

Okra's high fiber content helps keep digestion regular and prevent constipation. It also promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which can strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation. Okra's mucilaginous texture may seem slimy to some, but it can actually soothe and coat the digestive tract. It can help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.

Lowers Cholesterol

Okra contains soluble fiber, which can bind to bile acids in the digestive tract and lower cholesterol levels. It may also help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. According to some studies, eating okra regularly may improve lipid profiles and reduce markers of inflammation in the body. It may also help regulate blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.

May Help with Blood Sugar Control

Okra has a low glycemic index, which means it won't cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good option for people with diabetes or those who want to prevent insulin resistance. Some animal studies have suggested that okra extract may help lower blood sugar levels by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans.

Fresh and Delicious

Okra is a fresh and delicious vegetable that can add variety to your meals. Its distinct flavor and texture make it stand out in any dish. Whether you prefer it grilled, roasted, or fried, there's a way to enjoy okra that fits your taste preferences. As with any food, it's important to choose high quality, fresh okra. Look for firm, bright green pods without blemishes or spots. You can store okra in the fridge for up to a week, but it's best to eat it as soon as possible for the most flavor and nutrition.