Cucumbers are said to have the following benefits: antidiabetic potential, antioxidant activity, cleansing action of toxins and waste, soothing effect against skin irritation, and prevention of constipation.
We will now review some of the coolest and best benefits of eating cucumbers. Add them to your diet.
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NUTRITION: Properties and benefits of CUCUMBERS
Hydration
Cucumbers are 95.2 percent water, which means a 5-ounce serving contains 4.8 ounces, or 150 mL, of water. That’s already about 26 percent of your daily water intake through food.
heart health
Cucumbers contain potassium (152 mg per cup), which can help lower blood pressure.
A study of potassium intake showed that a higher intake «is associated with lower rates of stroke and may also reduce the risk of total cardiovascular disease.»
Since less than 2 percent of American adults consume the recommended 4,700 mg of potassium per day, eating cucumbers is an easy way to start increasing your potassium intake.
Protects the skin from aging
Cucumbers are used in skin care: they have been shown to be effective as a potential anti-wrinkle agent in cosmetic products, protecting our skin from the effects of aging.
They fight inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of cancer
They also contain plant nutrients called cucurbitacins, which have anticancer properties: «Scientists have already determined that several different signaling pathways necessary for cancer cell development and survival can be blocked by the activity of cucurbitacins.»
Alleviate the pain
Flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory substances, and tannins in cucumbers have been shown to limit the release of free radicals in the body and reduce pain.
As explained in the Journal of Young Pharmacists, «Traditionally, this plant is used for headaches; the seeds are cooling and diuretic; the fruit juice is used as a nutrient and as a demulcent in anti-acne lotions.»
Reduces bad breath
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth.
Water- and fiber-rich vegetables like cucumbers can increase your mouth’s production of saliva, which in turn helps wash away odor-causing bacteria in your mouth.
good for the bones
Cucumber is a good source of vitamin K: One cup contains 22 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K.
This vitamin is essential for bone health, as low vitamin K intake has been associated with an increased risk of bone fracture. Vitamin K is also important for improving calcium absorption in the bones.
prevent constipation
Cucumbers are rich in water and their skin contains insoluble fiber.
Both water and fiber help food move through the digestive tract more quickly and easily, which helps prevent constipation.
Help maintain a healthy weight
Cucumbers are very low in calories and also contain fiber in the skin. And foods that contain fiber can help maintain a healthy weight.
There are many ways to enjoy cucumbers: raw in salads as a side to your meals, fermented as pickles, or in vegetable juices.
Recommendation
Choose organic cucumbers over conventionally grown cucumbers, as cucumbers were ranked the ninth most contaminated food on the annual list of species that are constantly contaminated by chemicals.