A diet rich in fiber reduces the absorption of carbohydrates by the body and helps control blood sugar levels – anyone suffering from type 2 diabetes, a disease that affects almost 10% of the Brazilian population, knows this well. It is no surprise that a food like okrawhich has these characteristics, ended up becoming a favorite among those who suffer from the condition.
The idea is simple: it would help regulate what you eat to tame the rise and fall of blood sugar levels and the dreaded side effects of diabetes. A cup of okra has the same amount of fiber as the same amount of brown rice.
Furthermore, research by Unicamp, carried out with mice and later with people, brought another finding: water with okra helps reduce glycemic levels in diabetics. It was enough for the “natural remedy” to go viral on the networks. However, reality requires caution when advertising the advantages of the vegetable.
+Read also: The value of okra in the diet
Okra for diabetes? It’s not quite like that
The repercussion of okra as a magical solution led the Brazilian Diabetes Society (SBD) to take a stance and issue warnings about the dangers of replacing insulin with okra.
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The vegetable contains a good amount of fiber, vitamin A and C, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, almost no calories and a lot of water. This makes including it in the diet more than welcome, especially for diabetics.
But these advantages are, above all, nutritional – they are part of a balanced and healthy diet. This does not mean that okra, on its own, can match a diabetes control treatment recommended by a doctor.
The health benefits are not miraculous or sufficient to replace medications and other therapies recommended by health professionals. Stay alert and never fail to follow medical advice.
How to include okra in your diet
Originally from Africa and adapted to tropical areas, okra is versatile. It can be consumed cooked or grilled with different types of meat, such as chicken, fish and beef. But he exudes a drool, which many disapprove of. To reduce it, add vinegar or lemon when cooking.
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Chefs also recommend consuming it grilled: break it in half and grill it in a frying pan without olive oil or oil so it doesn’t release smoke. Once toasted, season as you wish. It is ideal for those who enjoy a touch of bitterness and crunchiness (due to the seeds). You can also make hot salads, rice with okra and even soup.
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