Okra is Good for You

What is there to say about okra? People seem to either really enjoy okra or really hate it.  There doesn't seem to be many middle ground. Okra is much more common fair in the southern part of the United States. Okra needs to be introduced to other parts of the States for sure. It is possible to find okra in the frozen food section of your local market if you are unable to find it fresh.

There are a number of reasons that eating okra is healthy for you. 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 the slimy compound that can sooth mucus membranes. Herbalists believe that this can assist people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or suffer from irregularity with their intestines.

Low in calories but high in nutrients, okra is a healthy veggie to add to your diet. Low calorie count and high fiber make this ideal for people who are trying to loose weight. Okra is also high in fiber, which also helps in digestion and keeping your digestive tract healthy. Okra is also high in the important vitamins B,A, and C. Okra is a heart healthy veggie also! When eaten regularly, okra can assist in lowering cholesterol.

When we discuss okra culinarily, it is most often used in gumbos and soups. Okra has the unique ability to help thicken soups with its mucilage. Okra can be eaten raw but that is based on preference. The flavor of okra has been compared to eggplant. Fried okra is also a common way to eat it.  Frying also helps to reduce the slimy texure also. Okra can also be boiled and steamed though this does tend to make it slimy.

You can enjoy okra in a very large number of recipes. Cajun is always a fun way to cook.  Everyone should try this at least once and it very commonly contains okra.