Okra - The Little Veggie That Could
by: Sherri L Dodd
Origin: Okra originated in Ethoipia in 12th century
B.C. Travelers introduced it to the middle east and eventually
it entered into the southern area of North America through the
slave trade.
Types: There are three main Okra pods to choose from:
Annie Oakley (a compact plant with extra tender pods), Dwarf Green
Long Pods (longer, ribbed pods) and the Clemson Spineless.
Benefits: Not much of a popular choice, Okra may be
one of the misunderstood vegetable. It contains a powerful pack
of valuable nutrients, of which almost half is soluble fiber,
contained in its gums and pectins. Along with lowering serum cholesterol,
soluble fiber is yet another component of helping to reduce the
risk of heart disease. Okra also contains insoluble fiber which
helps keep your intestinal tract healthy and strong, subsequently,
decreasing the risk of colorectal cancer.
Okra is also a well known producer of glutathione, a protein
molecule made up of three amino acids. Researchers at Emory University
found that of the 1800 people in their study, those with the highest
intake of glutathione were 50% less likely to develop oral and
throat cancers than those with lower levels of the amino acid.
And, for good measure the little spiny pod also boasts nearly
10% of the RDA of vitamin B6 and folic acid, 22% Vitamin C, 11%
magnesium and combined fiber equals about 8%, if you consume atleast
a half of a cup serving.
Blurb: A favored southern dish, okra is best known for
its addition to gumbo or fried with a corn meal coating. It is
also used in cooking for its thickening ability as well as its
rich flavor. Look for okra in the duration of mid-spring through
October; and, when choosing your pods, look for vibrance in color
and avoid any length over four inches long as well as those that
are limp and blemished.
About The Author: Sherri L Dodd is the creator and author
of the newly-released book, Mom Looks Great - The Fitness Program
for Moms. She is an ACE-certified Personal Trainer and Lifestyle
& Weight Management Consultant with over fifteen years of
exercise experience. She has lectured to groups on her fitness
plan and is a freelance writer on the topics of fitness and general
nutrition as well as the humorous side of motherhood. www.momlooksgreat.com
|
