Nutritional and Therapeutic Applications of Okra in Diabetes Management
Summary
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is emerging as a multifunctional dietary adjunct for diabetes management, combining rich nutritional content with bioactive phytochemicals. Its pods and seeds provide soluble fibre, vitamins, minerals and a viscous mucilage that slows glucose absorption and improves postprandial glycaemia. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids in okra exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, mitigating oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction common in diabetes. Preclinical models demonstrate enhanced insulin sensitivity, pancreatic β-cell protection and favourable lipid modulation, while early clinical data reveal reductions in fasting blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin A1c and dyslipidaemia markers. Traditional uses across Asia and Africa highlight okra’s accessibility and cultural acceptance. Current research focuses on optimising extraction methods, standardising dosages and elucidating pharmacokinetics to support the integration of okra into functional foods or supplement regimens for cost-effective global diabetes care.
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Nutritional and Therapeutic Applications of Okra in Diabetes Management publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in nutritional and therapeutic applications of okra in diabetes management across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): A marker of average blood glucose levels over the preceding two to three months.
Fasting blood glucose: The concentration of glucose in the blood after a period of at least eight hours without caloric intake.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): A class of lipoprotein often termed “bad cholesterol” that contributes to atherosclerosis.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL): A class of lipoprotein known as “good cholesterol” that facilitates reverse cholesterol transport.
Mucilage: A viscous polysaccharide extracted from okra pods that slows nutrient absorption and modulates glycaemic response.
Polyphenols: Plant-derived compounds with antioxidant activity that protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
References
- Health benefits of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) against diabetes mellitus and cognitive dysfunction: a review. Food Production, Processing and Nutrition (2025).
- The cardiometabolic benefits of okra-based treatment in prediabetes and diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Frontiers in Nutrition (2024).
- Effect of Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Okra) on Dyslipidemia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Studies. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024).
- Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) as a Potential Functional Food Source of Mucilage and Bioactive Compounds with Technological Applications and Health Benefits. Plants (2021).
- Abelmoschus esculentus (L.): Bioactive Components’ Beneficial Properties—Focused on Antidiabetic Role—For Sustainable Health Applications. Molecules (2018).
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