New Delhi: A doctor recently revealed that combining a common, inexpensive fruit with water to produce a slimy substance and then including it in the diet can be a good way to protect the gut and lower cholesterol. Although commonly prepared like a vegetable, okra bhindi, or lady’s finger, it is a fruit that holds a special place in Indian cuisine and is enjoyed in some parts of Africa. Bhindi contains a slimy substance known as mucilage which resembles the gel found in aloe vera. Despite the not-so-appetising look of it, bhindi slime could be beneficial for health – especially for the gut and to manage cholesterol.
How does okra water improve gut health?
Experts say that drinking okra and water together could go a long way in keeping the gut healthy and the body free of digestive distress. And making the okra slime is no herculean task either. All you need to do is cut it into thin slices, place it in water, and allow the slime to squeeze out naturally. Further, the plant lube found within, known as mucilage, works like soluble dietary fibre and a prebiotic which bulks up stools and helps one get rid of it naturally.
Talk of how it improves gut health, experts found that when okra is exposed to water, it produces a gel with softens stools and helps regularise them as well. Furthermore, it can slow down the transit of food in the gut which usually helps one stay full for long hours. Additionally, it was found that the same slime could be beneficial for the heart.
What are the benefits of okra slime for heart health?
Talk of the benefits of okra water for the heart, experts say that the soluble fibre mucilage does the trick. It helps regulate cholesterol levels and these claims are backed by a study published in the Global Journal of Medical Research: Interdisciplinary in 2014. Experts noted that the component can lower cholesterol by binding it during the digestion process. It helps cholesterol leave the body through stools.
Researchers noted that okra water works like a prebiotic which feeds gut bacteria. But for maximum benefits, oral intake is not always necessary. The benefits of this slime can be obtained by eating this fruit cooked rather than drinking water infused with it. Experts say that the benefits can be obtained by immersing the fruit in water for several hours. Furthermore, more water means extra slime – and the same can be obtained by soaking flaxseeds, chia seeds and aloe vera.
Experts say that drinking okra and water together could go a long way in keeping the gut healthy and the body free of digestive distress. And making the okra slime is no herculean task either. All you need to do is cut it into thin slices, place it in water, and allow the slime to squeeze out naturally. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
