Latest news with #luke_coutinho
NDTV
11 hours ago
- Health
- NDTV
Lifestyle Coach Shares Health Benefits Of Okra
Okra, also known as lady's finger, is a bright green vegetable loved for its mild flavour, subtle crunch, and versatility. Whether fried, stewed, or tossed into curries, it's a staple in many kitchens, and it turns out, it's also a nutritional powerhouse. Nutritionist and health coach Luke Coutinho recently shared a video on Instagram highlighting the many health benefits of okra. In the video, he explained how the vegetable is rich in essential nutrients and can easily be included in a balanced diet. One of the key components of okra is its mucilage, a gel-like substance that acts as a form of fibre. According to Luke Coutinho, this fibre helps nourish good gut bacteria, supports bowel movement, and improves stool consistency. He also pointed out that okra is especially beneficial for people managing diabetes, inflammation, and gut health. It's packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and all B vitamins. Its high fibre content works as a prebiotic, supporting a healthy gut microbiome. In addition to being low in calories, okra contains small amounts of protein and carbohydrates. Luke Coutinho added that scientific studies have shown okra helps reduce glucose absorption and improves insulin sensitivity, thanks to compounds like flavonoids and polysaccharides. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luke Coutinho - Official (@luke_coutinho) He also mentioned that he often includes okra in diets for people who are preparing for or recovering from surgery, dealing with colorectal issues, and undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or heavy medication. He said okra-based meals ease digestion, reduce oxidative stress, and support cellular healing. Luke Coutinho also cautioned people to avoid okra if they are allergic to it or those taking heavy blood thinners. He also advised people not to deep-fry or overcook okra, as it kills most of the nutrition. He recommended steaming, light cooking, or even adding okra to salads or soups instead and suggested trying okra water by soaking it overnight and drinking it the next day. He suggested, "Stop deep frying it. Lightly saute, steam, or mix into dals and sabzis." He stated that managing conditions like diabetes, heart problems or weight loss issues requires regular exercise, good sleep quality, stress management, and proper nutrition, as there is no magic food that can cure diabetes, prevent heart attacks, or cause weight loss on its own. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
NDTV
22-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- NDTV
Beat The Heat With This Expert-Approved Summer Drink
The scorching summer is upon us and the craving for cold beverages is bound to be irresistible. What better way to beat the heat than with a glass of refreshing jaljeera? This staple cooling drink is all you need to lift your spirits and feel refreshed. Lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho shares the jaljeera recipe and its benefits in his latest Instagram post. The side note read, "The Great Bharat Cooler. In a world chasing fancy drinks and health fads…Here's something simple. Something powerful. Something that's always existed in our culture." Check out the full recipe here: 1. Take mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt and lemon juice in a grinder and grind to fine powder. 2. Add 200 ml of water to the mix and blend it again until it gets a watery consistency. 3. In a tall glass, take a few ice cubes and pour in the prepared pudina jaleera drink mixture. 4. Add soaked basil seeds and mix. Garnish with mint leaves and your refreshing cooling beverage is ready to drink. TIP: Store the drink in a clay or mud pot (matka) – not just to cool it, but to keep the drink naturally alkaline, the traditional way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luke Coutinho - Official (@luke_coutinho) According to Luke Coutinho, Jaljeera offers several health benefits. It helps in cooling down your body in summers, supports digestion, works well for acidity and bloating and is great for stimulating appetite. Additionally, the summer cooler can also support lung health and can help provide relief from nausea and motion sickness. In his previous Instagram post, fitness coach Luke Coutinho shared the recipe for a herbal tea that helps combat gas and bloating. Just gather a few ingredients: mint leaves for a burst of freshness, ginger for warmth, fennel seeds for soothing comfort, ajwain for digestive aid, and jeera for added flavour. Boil these ingredients together for a few minutes, then let them simmer to release their healing properties. Strain the infusion into a cup, add a sprig of fresh mint for that extra touch, and sip it warm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luke Coutinho - Official (@luke_coutinho) According to Luke, having this tea two to three times a day, 30 minutes after meals, can really help with digestive issues.
