Dr Karan Raj has revealed the benefits of a underrated vegetable which can help to promote gut health and lower cholesterol – but it’s not for the faint-hearted
A doctor has revealed the surprising health benefits of a plant that’s often snubbed due to its slimy texture. Okra, despite being shunned by picky eaters, is actually packed with soluble dietary fibre known as mucilage, which can boost gut health, aid weight loss and even lower cholesterol levels.
The slime from okra has become a hot topic on social media, with health enthusiasts creating a unique drink by adding the veg to water, straining out the plant, and consuming the resulting viscous liquid. Dr Karan Raj, a popular TikTok user, has championed this unusual concoction.
“If you want to improve your gut health, drinking okra water might actually help,” he explained.
“When you mix okra’s mucilage with water, it forms a gel-like substance in your gut and this gel absorbs water, bulking up your stool to make it thick and juicy.”
But the benefits of mucilage don’t end there, according to Dr Raj. “It also acts as a prebiotic buffet for your microbiome, allowing beneficial bacteria to thrive.
“It also slows down gastrointestinal transit. That’s a posh way of saying food takes longer to pass through your digestive system. You’re fuller for longer, which can aid with any weight loss effort”.
Mucilage also binds to cholesterol in your gut, which Dr Raj says can help to lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels. However, not everyone was sold on the idea.
In response to Dr Raj’s video, one viewer commented: “Can’t you just eat okra?” while another added: “I know you’re right but that slime is unbearable.”
A third chimed in with: “Sorry but I can’t drink slime.”
However, some viewers were more receptive, with one writing: “Never heard of okra water! Can’t wait to try this for my gut health!”
If the thought of drinking this viral concoction doesn’t appeal, the medical professional emphasised there are other ways to enjoy its benefits. “If drinking okra-infused water feels like sipping vegetable-flavoured regret, you’ll be pleased to know that cooking and eating okra is actually even better for you,” he stated.
“It still delivers mucilage, along with micronutrients and insoluble fibre.”
Dr Raj mentioned you can also get mucilage from other plant sources, including aloe vera, psyllium husk, flaxseeds and chia seeds.