Okra for Diabetes: A Personal Experience, Practical Prep Guide, and Modern Medical Perspective

Introduction

I hope this helps. I want to share a remedy that many people say is scientifically proven and effective for diabetes: okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Although okra isn’t widely known in Indonesia, its name has recently become more familiar—especially in Jakarta—thanks to word-of-mouth claims that it can help lower blood sugar.

My Experience with Okra

I first learned about okra two weeks ago from my sister, who also lives with diabetes. She has been consuming okra for about three months, and her blood sugar is now better controlled. Previously, she needed to take medication three times a day; now she’s reduced it to twice a day. I’ve only been consuming okra for two weeks, so I haven’t seen the same level of success yet. Still, my morning (non-fasting) glucose readings seem more stable—at most around 130—compared to before.

What People Say About Okra

When I searched for information, I found very few Indonesian-language articles discussing okra’s benefits for diabetes. In contrast, there’s a lot of discussion in other languages. Because of its slender shape, okra is often called “lady’s fingers” in English. In several Central and South Asian countries, okra is a popular vegetable and is used in many tasty, healthful dishes. In India, for example, okra is commonly cooked in curry; in Japan, it’s often enjoyed as a salad.

How I Prepare Okra Water

Here’s the method I’ve been using to prepare okra for diabetes support:

1. Choose relatively young okra pods.
2. Use 1 okra (or 2 if they’re small). Finely slice or chop as needed.
3. Soak the sliced okra in a glass of drinking water. Cover and leave overnight.
4. Drink the soaked water in the morning before breakfast or on an empty stomach.
5. Repeat daily for 2–3 months.

Additional Notes

• The soaking water turns slightly viscous—like egg white—due to okra’s natural mucilage. Strain using a coarse sieve before drinking.
• You can re-soak the remaining okra pieces in fresh water and drink that in the evening.
• The soaked water (okra “slime”) has no strong odor or taste. Okra itself tastes a bit like cucumber, with a faint tartness, and can be eaten as a salad if you like.
• Check your blood sugar each morning after drinking to see whether this approach is helpful for you.

Modern Medical Perspective

From a contemporary medical viewpoint, okra contains soluble fiber and mucilage that may slow carbohydrate absorption in the gut, potentially smoothing post-meal glucose spikes. Okra also provides antioxidants such as flavonoids and vitamins that support overall metabolic health. However, responses vary, and okra should not replace prescribed diabetes treatments. People taking medications—especially metformin or insulin—should monitor glucose closely and consult a healthcare professional before making changes. Consistent nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and evidence-based therapies remain the foundation of diabetes management. If okra helps as a complementary food or drink, use it alongside your care plan and track results carefully.