Ladyfinger, also known as okra or bhindi (Ladyfinger in Hindi), is a popular vegetable enjoyed in many cuisines and nutritional diets worldwide. It is extremely popular for containing high fiber and is known for its high soluble and insoluble fiber content which offers numerous health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, ladyfinger is a versatile veggie that can be incorporated into various recipes and used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. [2] In this article, we will explore 15 ladyfinger benefits that make it a valuable addition to your diet.
Top benefits of Ladyfinger
1. Rich in Nutrients:
Ladyfinger nutrition makes it a powerhouse, containing a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. It is a rich source of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, manganese, phosphorous, zinc, and copper. These nutrients are vital in maintaining overall health and supporting various bodily functions. [1]
2. Digestive Health:
One of the significant ladyfinger benefits is its positive impact on the digestive system. It contains a high amount of dietary fiber, which facilitates proper water absorption and helps prevent constipation through regular bowel movements. [1]
3. Diabetes Management:
Ladyfinger has shown promising results in managing diabetes. It contains soluble fiber that slows down the absorption of sugar in the digestive system, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. It has been seen to serve as a dietary therapy for hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia. [2]
4. Heart Health:
Regularly consuming ladyfinger can contribute to a healthy heart and prevent cardiovascular diseases. The high pectin content helps reduce bad cholesterol and serum triglyceride levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. [2]
5. Anti-Cancer Properties:
Among the other ladyfinger benefits are its possession of potent anti-cancer properties. It contains phytochemical compounds, which have been found to curb the growth and proliferation of cancer cells, particularly in liver and colon cancer. [2]
6. Vision Improvement:
The presence of vitamin A and B carotene in ladyfinger promotes good vision. These nutrients help protect the eyes from various vision-related illnesses. Thus, including ladyfinger in the diet can contribute to maintaining healthy eyesight. [2]
7. Bone Health:
Ladyfinger contains essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, crucial for maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin K also acts as a co-factor in the blood-clotting process and promotes bone density and strength, reducing the risk of bone-related problems. [1]
8. Skin Health:
Consuming ladyfinger can have a positive impact on the skin. The dietary fibers present in this vegetable help keep digestion problems away, leading to healthy-looking skin. The high vitamin C content also keeps the skin firm, youthful, and more vibrant. [1]
9. Hair Health:
Ladyfinger is a natural conditioner and moisturizer for hair that can help with unruly, curly, and lifeless hair. It also helps fight dandruff, is used as a hair rinse to result in lustrous and strong hair. It also treats dry and itchy scalp. [1]
10. Anti-Asthma Benefits:
Studies have shown that ladyfinger benefits include the presence of anti-asthmatic properties. The presence of certain compounds helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory system and improve lung function. Including ladyfinger vegetable in the diet may help manage asthma symptoms. [1]
11. Brain Health:
Ladyfinger vegetable contains folate and vitamin C that support the growth and development of the fetus’s brain during pregnancy. It also helps prevent congenital defects. [2]
12. Boosts Immunity:
Ladyfinger vegetable is an excellent source of polysaccharides that mainly help improve immune performance. Regular consumption of lady finger helps in protecting the body against various infections and diseases. [3]
13. Anti-oxidant and anti-fatigue properties:
Ladyfinger vegetable is a storehouse of powerful antioxidants that strengthen the immune system. Regularly consuming ladyfingers helps protect the body against various infections and diseases. Okra polysaccharides, polyphenols, and flavonoids can prolong swimming time and promote fatigue recovery. [3]
14. Anti-tumor Properties:
Ladyfinger possesses strong anti-tumor properties due to the okra pectin and lectin. It is also rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, and regular intake can help reduce the risk of tumors. [3]
15. Weight Management:
Including lady finger in your diet can aid in weight management. It also helps lower body weight along with improving the body’s glucose tolerance levels. [4]
FAQs about Lady Finger
1. What are the benefits of Ladyfinger vegetable in Ayurvedic science?
Okra. or Ladyfinger in Hindi, holds a special place in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. Two of the key benefits of ladyfinger in Ayurveda include:
Balancing Vata and Pitta Doshas: Lady finger balances the Vata and Pitta doshas, the elemental energies in Ayurveda. It helps pacify excessive Vata (air and ether) and Pitta (fire and water) doshas in the body, promoting overall well-being.
Digestive Aid: Ladyfinger vegetable is considered an excellent digestive aid in Ayurveda. It stimulates the digestive fire (agni), improves digestion, and promotes the absorption of nutrients.
2. Can okra be eaten every day?
Eating too much okra or Ladyfinger in Hindi can have unwanted side effects such as gastrointestinal problems as Okra contains fructans, that in turn potentially causes diarrhea, gas, cramping, and bloating in people with existing bowel problems.
3. Is ladyfinger considered a superfood?
Ladyfinger vitamin content such as Vitamin A and C as well as other nutrients and antioxidants help lower the risk of fatal health conditions like diabetes, cancer, stroke, and cardiac disease. This puts it in the category of a superfood.
Conclusion
Ladyfinger, with its impressive array of nutrients and ladyfinger benefits, is a remarkable vegetable to incorporate into your diet. From promoting digestive health and managing diabetes to enhancing heart health and supporting brain function, the advantages of ladyfinger are abundant. This article aptly explored how you can enjoy this versatile vegetable and experience its excellent benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References:
- Amazing Benefits Of Okra/Lady’s Finger For Skin, Hair And Health.
- A Review on Ethnomedicinal, Pharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmaceutical Profile of Lady’s Finger ( Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Plant
- Okra in Food Field: Nutritional Value, Health Benefits and Effects of Processing Methods on Quality
- Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus) as a Potential Dietary Medicine with Nutraceutical Importance for Sustainable Health Applications
