Eat Bhindi Or Drink It? TikTok Buzzes With 'Okra Water' Trend

Who doesn't love bhindi masala? But can you picture drinking the water soaked in Bhindi or Ladyfinger? Yes, you heard it right. Okra is known for its nutritional value. Rich in nutrients like Vitamin A and Vitamin C, it lowers cholesterol levels and controls blood sugar levels. But is it necessary to soak it in water and drink it?

The TikTok Okra Water Trend

Is okra infused in water the better option?

Scientifically speaking, there is not much concrete evidence available to prove if drinking okra water is a better alternative than eating okra. A research from 2019 goes along similar themes but doesn't credit okra much for the same.  

What is okra water?

Many wellness influencers shared on their handles how to make okra water. Just cut a ladyfinger into small parts and soak it in a jar overnight. The slimy liquid is now ready for consumption. Many users commented, "I hate the texture." One user admitted, "Do you need to make it so slimy because this is actually a super delicious vegetable."

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A post shared by Ebony Cierra | Keto + Low Carb (@the.ketokween)

Benefits of Drinking Okra Water

As mentioned earlier, okra is very nutritious, health experts say that okra water can be considered a healthy drink. It may aid in blood sugar regulation, as the fibre in okra is known to slow down sugar absorption, helping stabilise blood sugar levels. 

Okra water contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help in improving eye health.

Fibre is also good for the gut health and digestive system and can prevent constipation. However, overconsumption can lead to digestive issues. Okra is high in fructans, a type of carbohydrate that can cause digestive issues. For some, excessive consumption may lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhoea due to its fibre content. 

Now the real question: Should you eat bhindi or drink it?

The effects of drinking okra water may not be the same as consuming whole okra. Many people discard the okra pieces and only drink the water thus missing out on the fibre that okra pieces provide. 

The consumption of okra water in excess, like its counterparts, is also not advisable by experts. Experts claim that okra water can interact with medicines sometimes, like blood thinners due to vitamin K. Overconsumption can also lead to electrolyte imbalance. 

So, what should you finally do?

You cannot expect drinking okra water to drastically change your life. You need to incorporate other changes as well to get the desired result. Before trying out anything, it is always advisable to check with your dietician or an expert. But eating okra as a whole is a better alternative: safer, more nutritious and tastes better as well.