For a fruit that has up to 96% of water, do not be surprised that there are numerous physical and health benefits of cucumber. The fruit may seem boring to some people, but it is very nutritious, loaded with fibre and water, and amazingly very low in sugar and calories.
Cucumbers belong to the Cucurbitaceae family; they are long and lean and have a unique mild melon smell and taste. However, their nutritional content includes potassium, vitamin K, manganese, phosphorus, vitamin B1, copper, magnesium, and potassium.
Cucumbers also contain some phytonutrients and are an excellent source of molybdenum and pantothenic acid. So, let’s see how this amazing combination of nutrients can be beneficial to you.
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10 Benefits of Cucumber
Here are 10 amazing benefits of cucumber that will make you want to consume it over and over again.
Cucumbers can Aid Digestion
One of the most common benefits of cucumber is its effects on digestion; this is one of the things you will first notice after consuming cucumber. They are high in fibre and water, and our digestive system needs the combo to function effectively.
By adding cucumbers to your diet, you can easily regulate bowel movements and get rid of constipation and other digestive tract problems.
They are Anti-inflammatory
Cucumbers are packed with antioxidants like minerals and lignans, which experts claim to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. The fruit also contains flavonoids and carotene, which are potent phytonutrients with effective anti-inflammatory properties.
Make Your Skin Glow
Of course, we can’t discuss the many benefits of cucumbers without talking about skin care. Cucumbers can help rehydrate your skin and make you look younger and fresher. Similar to the effects you get from using cucumber on your eyes, you can make facial masks from cucumbers, and you will get excellent results.
Cucumbers are Hydrating
Cucumbers are the healthiest way to stay hydrated without actually taking water because they contain a lot of water. If you feel thirsty or dehydrated and, for some reason, do not like the idea of drinking water, then you can add enough cucumber to your diet to increase your water intake and stay hydrated at all times.
They can Depuff Your Eyes
Cucumbers have anti-inflammatory effects when you eat them, but they also have the same effect when you use them on the outside of your body. If you have ever been to a spa or seen any spa videos, you may have noticed people putting cucumber slices on their eyes. The fruit can depuff your eyes, eliminating eye bags, redness, irritability, and dark circles.
Regulate Blood Pressure
Cucumbers are high in dietary fibre, potassium, and magnesium, and these nutrients are known to be very effective in lowering blood pressure. Research has also proven that regular consumption of cucumbers can help eliminate hypertension and regulate blood pressure in older people.
Helpful in Weight Loss
Cucumbers are very filling due to their high fibre content and over 95% water content, so it’s no surprise that they are helpful for weight loss. In fact, one of the most notable benefits of cucumber is its role in weight loss.
If you are looking for a healthy snack or food that can fill you up without adding too many calories and sugars to your diet, cucumbers are your best option. In addition, they can be consumed in different ways; you can make smoothies, eat them raw, and add them as toppings for various meals.
Good for Hair and Nails
Amongst the numerous benefits of cucumber, many people do not know that it can also help healthy nail and hair growth. Cucumbers contain silica which can help strengthen your nails and prevent them from becoming weak. It has the same effect on your hair, so if you have been suffering from nail and hair breakage, you may need to adjust your diet and include a lot of cucumbers.
Good for Blood Sugar
As we have mentioned earlier, cucumbers have low sugar and carbohydrate content, meaning they have a low glycemic index. So you can consume them without worrying about your blood sugar levels; some studies have also shown that cucumbers may lower blood sugar levels and help manage diabetes.
Improve Bone Health
A cucumber may not seem like a fruit capable of strengthening bones. Still, it is packed with vitamin K, which is necessary for the adequate absorption of calcium and proper bone formation. Some studies have also shown that vitamin K may reduce fractures in women with low bone mineral density. So if you are pregnant or postmenopausal, including some cucumbers in your diet will be good.
Side Effects of Cucumber
- Consuming cucumbers may lead to flatulence and bloating in some people.
- People on blood thinners should not consume too many cucumbers as the vitamin K content may lead to more blood clot formation.
- Cucumbers may increase water content and potassium in the body, which is not ideal for people with kidney problems.
- Some people may also suffer from cucumber allergies and show signs like swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
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Now that you know some of the numerous benefits of cucumber, it is also essential that you know the best way to consume them. Eating your cucumbers raw, not pickled, will help you maximize its benefits. It is also advisable to blend your cucumbers instead of juicing them and leave the peels on to optimize their fibre content.
Cucumbers are some of the best fruits you can add to your diet, and in a short time, you will start seeing positive changes in your overall health and body.
