Okra is Good for You

Okra may send shivers down some peoples spine while other peoples mouths begin to water. People seem to either really enjoy okra or really hate it.  There doesn't seem to be many middle ground. Okra is a common staple in the southern parts of the United States. It is a shame that Okra isn't as popular in other parts of the United States. Most stores carry okra in their frozen food section.

Eating Okra is very healthy for you, and there are a number of reasons for this. Herbalists note okras ability to be a demulcint. A demulcint helps mucus membranes by coating the mucus membrane and reducing inflammation and pain. Mucilage is ultimately the demulcint. People who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome may benefit from eating okra.

Okra is low in calories but packs a lot of nutrients in making it an extremely healthy veggie to add to your diet. Foods that are high in fiber and low in calories are filling and great for people who are trying to loose weight. High fiber is also very good for your digestive tract in general. Okra is also high in the important vitamins B,A, and C. The bonus okra holds is it is also heart healthy. Okra can assist in lowering cholesterol when it is eaten regularly.

Culinarily speaking, okra is often used in gumbos and soups. Okra's mucilage helps to thicken these culinary delights. Some people do enjoy eating okra raw such as on salads.  This is up to personal opinion. Some compare the flavor to eggplant. If you wish to reduce the slime in okra a common recommendation is to fry it. You can also steam or boil okra but it will a bit more slimy.

There are a large number of different recipes you can use that include okra. To truly enjoy okra though you should try it with some Cajun cooking!