Although eating okra has many known benefits, there is not much scientific evidence regarding the benefits of okra juice. Nevertheless, some people claim that it can improve immunity, women's sexual health, and more.
However, there is currently very little research evaluating these claims, and the nutritional content of okra water remains unclear. Eating okra itself may be more beneficial.
What is okra water?
Okra water is filtered water infused with okra, a type of vegetable. People slice the okra pods and soak them in water overnight, before straining out the okra and drinking the water. The soluble fiber in okra can thicken the water and give it a delicate flavor.
There is currently not much research on the health benefits of okra water (Photo: Shutterstock).
Nutritional value of okra water
According to Medical News Today , no scientists have evaluated the nutritional content of okra water. Therefore, it is unclear how many nutrients from okra leach into the water after soaking.
However, okra itself is a good source of fiber and several important vitamins and minerals. A 100g serving of uncooked okra contains 33 calories; 7.4g carbohydrates; 3.2g fiber; and 1.9g protein. Additionally, it provides vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, and folate.
Okra also contains some antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is no guarantee that okra water will contain all of these nutrients.
Claims about the benefits of okra water
Those who advocate for drinking okra water may make various claims about it, including:
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Lower cholesterol.
- Supports weight loss.
- Improves digestion.
- Boosts the immune system.
- Improves sexual health.
- Regulates hormones.
However, very few of these claims have scientific evidence.
Benefits of okra water
Lower blood sugar levels
The main health claim that scientists have researched about okra water is that it can help control blood sugar levels.
A 2019 animal study found that okra water improved blood sugar levels in hyperglycemic mice. A small 2021 study in Indonesia of 30 people with type 2 diabetes also found that okra water reduced blood sugar levels.
However, more research with larger numbers of participants is needed to confirm these benefits.
Supports digestion
Okra is a source of fiber, which can help maintain regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated is also important for digestive health, so okra water can aid digestion.
Lower cholesterol
There is some evidence that okra powder may improve blood lipid levels, such as cholesterol. However, it is unclear whether this applies to okra juice.
A 2023 study of people with type 2 diabetes found that 1,000mg of okra powder per day was associated with lower blood sugar and lower cholesterol levels.
Side effects of okra water
Because there is very little research on okra water, little is known about its side effects. However, like any food or drink, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Some potential side effects include:
- Allergic reaction: People who are allergic to okra may find that okra juice triggers their allergic symptoms.
- Digestive symptoms: Okra contains fructan, a fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol (FODMAP). For people who have difficulty digesting FODMAPs, it may cause digestive symptoms.
- Oxalate: Okra contains oxalate, and high levels of it may contribute to kidney stones.
How to make okra water
Those who want to try okra juice can make it at home by following these steps:
- Wash the whole okra pods thoroughly.
- Slice the okra to expose the inside, then place it in a bottle or container of filtered water.
- Chill overnight.
When ready, drain the okra pieces from the water.
It's currently unclear how long fresh okra juice can be kept, so it's best to drink it on the same day.
Thus, okra juice is a current health trend. Some people believe this drink has many benefits for the body, from providing nutrients to supporting the treatment of chronic diseases.
However, there has been very little research on okra soaking water to date. Therefore, it is difficult to say whether many of these claims are true.
There is some evidence that okra water may lower high blood sugar levels in people with hyperglycemia and may aid digestion. However, overall, more research is needed.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/uong-nuoc-dau-bap-co-tot-khong-20250705095118241.htm
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