THE MAGIC OF OKRA

One food that I’ve grown up with that says “I’m from the South” is okra.  There are so many ways that this amazing food can be prepared — grilled, fried, pickled, and roasted. Aside from enjoying its delicious flavor, we rarely stop to think about all of the magical benefits this small but mighty fruit has for us.

Protects Your Heart

Okra contains a sticky substance called mucilage, which helps bind cholesterol. What does this mean? Instead of being absorbed, it will be excreted from your body, keeping your heart healthy.

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One of the key nutrients found in okra is the protein called lectin. This protein has been shown to discourage the growth of human cancer cells. 

Also, many major antioxidants can be found in okra, including: polyphenols, flavonoids, isoquercetin, and vitamins A and C.

Weight Control

Because eating okra causes you to feel fuller for a longer period of time, it is ideal in preventing excess snacking. Okra also has a low glycemic index, which helps control sugar levels.

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Dietary Fiber

Okra is high in dietary fiber, which supports better digestion, glycemic control, and insulin sensitivity.

There is an estimated 3 grams of fiber in eight medium-sized pods of okra.

Medium for Beauty

Apart from consuming okra, you can also create a facial mask out of this fruit by blending it until it becomes a paste. You can then add lemon or honey. Apply the okra paste to your face, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This mask will help moisturize your skin, improve the appearance of dark spots, and minimize wrinkles. 

Options for Okra

The best option for getting okra into your system is by including it into your diet. But if you need more of a therapeutic dose, you can always add it in supplement form. My favorite go-to okra product is Okra Pepsin E3 from Standard Process.

• Okra Pepsin E3 supports intestinal function

• Supports mucosal tissue in the intestines

• Supports bowel function

• Provides bowel cleansing

Check out the fact sheet on okra pepsin here.

Cheers,

Dr Z

Oven Roasted Okra

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. okra
• Drizzle avocado oil
• Drizzle balsamic vinegar
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Garlic and onion powder

Directions:

1. Prepare the okra by washing well and slice off the tops. Continue to slice the okra into about 4-5 slices per piece of okra and set aside.
2. Add the okra to the baking sheet and top with oil, balsamic, lemon juice, and seasonings. Toss to coat.
3. Transfer to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Dr. Stephanie Zgraggen – a chiropractor and clinical nutritionist, is the director of Lime and Lotus Healing Arts Center in Charleston, South Carolina. She is also an author and leading expert in women’s hormones and health. Her private practice is centered on functional endocrinology, lifestyle modification and whole food supplementation. Her expertise includes functionally evaluating thyroid, adrenals, male and female hormone imbalances, and digestion. Her mission is to empower women to transform their lives naturally to balance their weight, energy and get their sexy back!   She has written for national publications such as Chiropractic Economics, Natural Awakenings and Nutrition Perspectives and has shared the stage at events with Elizabeth Gilbert and Marianne Williamson. For more information on Dr Z and her programs and services visit –

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