Goo for Your Gut?
UK surgeon, author, and TikTok favorite Dr. Karan Rangarajan, also known as Dr. Karan Raj, has taken to the platform to weigh in on an unappetizing new wellness trend: okra slime water.
What is Okra Slime Water?
Okra slime water, also known as “nature’s lube,” is a dense, two-ingredient tonic made from okra and water. The okra contains mucilage, a soluble dietary fiber and prebiotic that forms a gel when exposed to water. This gel-like substance makes stool soft, juicy, and regular.
Benefits of Okra Slime Water
Dr. Rangarajan explains that drinking okra water can have several benefits, including:
* Supporting gut health
* Keeping you regular
* Promoting weight loss by slowing the movement of food through the gut
* Supporting satiety while decreasing appetite and caloric intake
Other Foods with Mucilage
Mucilage is not unique to okra. It is also found in chia seeds, flax seeds, psyllium husk, and aloe vera. These foods can provide similar benefits to okra slime water.
Comparison to Tadpole Water
Tadpole water, a slimy drink made with chia seeds and water, has gained popularity among Gen Z users. While both okra slime water and tadpole water are slimy and unappetizing, they both claim to aid in weight loss.
Conclusion
Okra slime water may not be the most appealing drink, but its potential benefits to gut health and overall well-being make it worth considering. Dr. Rangarajan’s recipe for okra slime water is simple: cut up several okra stalks into small pieces, submerge them in water for up to 24 hours, and then strain the mixture. If you can’t stomach the slime, you can always cook okra for additional gut benefits.
FAQs
Q: What is mucilage?
A: Mucilage is a soluble dietary fiber and prebiotic found in foods like okra, chia seeds, and aloe vera.
Q: How does okra slime water work?
A: The mucilage in okra forms a gel-like substance when exposed to water, making stool soft, juicy, and regular.
Q: Are there other foods with mucilage?
A: Yes, mucilage is also found in chia seeds, flax seeds, psyllium husk, and aloe vera.
Q: Is okra slime water a new trend?
A: Yes, okra slime water has gained popularity in recent months, with searches increasing 470% since last year.
Q: Can I cook okra for gut benefits?
A: Yes, eating cooked okra can provide additional gut benefits.
