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Cucumbers (Cucumis Sativus) have unique beneficial substances that are very important for our overall health.
Researchers confirmed in various studies that due to the polyphenols called lignan cucumbers to have a significant benefit on reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and several types of cancers. Apart from reducing the risk of disease mentioned above, it is known that fresh extracts from cucumbers have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The question is why cucumbers are so beneficial when eaten daily and what’s so great about consuming them often. We know the benefits cucumbers have for our skin and hair are enormous. However, which are other benefits for our body?
Cucumbers for Digestive Problems
Cucumbers are the fourth most cultivated vegetables in the world. They are often referred to as super foods (cucumbers have no saturated fats and cholesterol, and they have only 15 grams of calories per 100 grams).
When consumed daily, cucumbers or cucumber juice is used as a remedy for digestive problems (heartburn, acidity, gastritis), and chronic constipation.
Cucumbers for Weight Loss
Another benefit that comes from low-calorie content and high water content is aided in weight loss. Many diets include cucumbers as crucial ingredients.
Due to the rich source of dietary fiber in the cucumber’s skin (which is very important for digestion) cucumbers are necessary for eliminating toxic compounds from the gut.
Cucumbers for Dental Health
Cucumbers have shown great benefits for dental health. These vegetable release phytochemicals, which kill the bad breath bacteria, while raw cucumbers increase salivation and bring neutralization of acids and alkali in the oral cavity. Cucumber juice can also treat weak gums.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Seeds are very beneficial as well. They are considered as a natural remedy that eliminates tapeworm from the intestinal tract. Seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that are good for treating the swelling of mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Vitamins and Minerals
Due to the rich content of important vitamins and minerals cucumbers are known to replenish and energize the body. As one of the best sources of potassium (147 milligrams per 100 grams), cucumbers can reduce blood pressure level and heart rate. Vitamins A, B and C are known as boosters for the immune system, and provide energy for our body.
Antioxidants such as carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are essential protection from free radicals that lead to aging and other related diseases.
Vitamin K in cucumbers is essential for joint health and bone strengthening.
Cooper helps in treatments of Alzheimer’s disease by limiting neutral damage and helps make neurotransmitters, which brains need to communicate.
Cucumber as Diuretic
Due to the good amount of manganese, cucumbers act as mild diuretic. They can be good stress relievers, and they calm down muscles.
The Most Important Benefit of Cucumbers
One of the most important benefit of cucumbers is rehydration. Cucumbers act as system cleaner, eliminate toxins, compensate water lost, and keep the kidneys healthy. Due to this cucumbers are also very beneficial for treating headaches and hangover.
In case you need some inspiration with your cooking, try the salad with mint and raspberries, or the one with mackerel, potatoes and mustard.
Images credit: 123RF Photo Stock
Last article update: 4/24/2019
