While it may not seem like it, cucumbers can benefit the entire the body, especially during the warmer months. Almost fully comprised of water, cucumbers contain a wide variety of nutrients in both the flesh and the skin. For instance, they contain folate, vitamin A, and vitamin C in the flesh, while the skin contains magnesium, potassium, fiber, and silica.
The cucumber is a fruit, even though it is commonly thought of as a vegetable. It originated in India about 10,000 years ago, but they are currently grown around the world. They belong to the same family as squash and melons, and several varieties are often found in grocery stores. Some varieties are grown specifically to make pickles, while others should be eaten fresh.
According to World’s Healthiest Foods, cucumbers contain powerful phytonutrients, which are not plentiful in the average American diet. These phytonutrients include flavonoids, lignans, and triterpenes, which have anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Start eating your cucumbers to reap the following benefits.
Blood Pressure Control
Recent studies at DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) indicated that people who consumed foods high in fiber, magnesium, and potassium normalized blood pressure levels. Cucumbers contain 152mg of potassium per cup, helping to flush excess sodium from the body. They also contribute to the healthy structure of connective tissues in the body, including the ones in ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and bones.
Brain Protection
Cucumbers and strawberries contain an anti-inflammatory substance known as fisetin. New research has suggested that this substance is beneficial for brain health. It may have the ability to reduce age-related neurological diseases and help maintain cognitive function for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
Breath Freshener
Bad breath can be caused by several factors, one of which being a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. Cucumbers are fibrous and water-rich, which helps to boost saliva production. This process helps you naturally wash away odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Skin Care
Rich in silica, which aids the development of healthy connective tissues, cucumbers help to hydrate the skin. A lot of medical professionals tend to recommend drinking freshly made cucumber juice to help achieve vibrant, healthy skin. Cucumber extract has soothing properties and can help get rid of dark circles or decrease sunburn pain.
Bone Health
Vitamin K is an essential nutrient for healthy bones. In fact, low vitamin K levels have been linked to an increased risk of bone fractures. You also need vitamin K to improve calcium absorption in your bones. Since one cup of cucumber contains 22% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K, it is ideal to add cucumbers to your daily diet.
