Cucumber is a long, lean, and green garden vegetables or fruit, it is one of the most widely eaten fruit readily because of its availability and cost effectiveness. It is often considered as a fruit as well as a vegetable by experts as it belongs to the same plant family as that of the pumpkin, squash and watermelon, (Cucurbitaceae family).
Cucumbers are widely used in traditional diets as well as spice in foods like salads etc. It is packed with so much nutrients and as well low in calories making it a good choice of food for individuals with a certain disease conditions.
Below are the health benefits of cucumbers that so many people are ignorant of and will make you want to eat it everyday
Health Benefits of Cucumber
Adequate Hydration
We all know that water is important for the normal functioning of the body ranging from physical performance and metabolism. So many people get the majority of the water requirement from drinking water while some get about 40% from foods.
Cucumbers consist mostly of water, and they also contain important electrolytes. They can help prevent dehydration in hot weather or after a workout. Staying hydrated is essential in maintaining a healthy intestine, preventing constipation, preventing kidney stone etc. Cucumber is a good choice of hydrating foods.
Contains Antioxidants
Antioxidants are Antioxidants are substances that prevents or slows down the damaging effect on the cells by free radicals. Cucumbers contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which prevent the accumulation of harmful free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Improves Bone Health
Cucumbers contain important nutrients like vitamin K, calcium, vitamin D etc that has been proven to help the bones and teeth. Vitamin K helps improve calcium absorption. Together, these nutrients can contribute to good bone health.
Aids In Digestion And Prevents Constipation
Basically all the calories in cucumbers (though not too many) come from fiber. According to Perez, fiber helps improve gut health and bowel movement regularity, it is beneficial in managing certain conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol, and will even fill you up to prevent you from overeating.
Its high content helps keep stool soft and prevents constipation.
Helps In Weight Loss
Cucumbers contain majorly water and are low in calories. There are only 15.5 calories in 100 g of cucumber.The high water and low-calorie content of cucumbers help in reducing weight.
Skin Care Therapy
Cucumbers are good choice when it come the good skin therapy. They contain vitamin C and Caffeic acid a natural chemical that possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
They have been shown to be effective as a potential anti-wrinkle agent in cosmetics protecting our skin form the effects of aging.
It is also used as home remedy for acne and sunburn because of its contents.
Reduces Bad Breath
Bad breath is caused when bacteria’s act on food remains in the mouth, but the high content of water in cucumbers boost the mouth saliva production which in turn washes away bacteria and keep the mouth clean.
Helps In Cardiovascular Health
Cucumbers contains potassium that helps in lowering blood pressures. Research has proven that high potassium intake is associated with lower rates of stroke and might also reduce the risk of total cardiovascular disease
Reduces The Risk Cancer
Cucumbers contain a natural substance called lignans. Bacteria in the digestive tract convert lignans into compounds that bind onto estrogen receptors. Some preliminary studies suggest they may protect against estrogen-related cancers, including those of the breast ovary, uterus, and prostate cancer.
Cucurbitacins is also present in cucumbers, which is a plant nutrient that has the ability to block several signaling pathways for cancer development.
Prevents Diabetes
Similar to how they can help you maintain a healthy weight, cucumbers are clutch at keeping diabetes in check. They’re rich in water, they expand in your stomach and thus reduce cravings for sugary snacks, which is a great way to regulate insulin levels.
Risks In Cucumber Consumption
Most farmers grow cucumbers with growers or fertilizers in excess, its advised that Cucumbers should be thoroughly washed before eating.
- Consuming cucumbers may lead to digestive problems like bloating and flatulence in some people.
- People with kidney problems should not consume too much cucumber as it can increase the water content and potassium in their body, which is harmful to them.
- People on blood thinners should not consume too much cucumber, as Vitamin K in them can make blood clotting further difficult.
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