Cucumbers are more than just a refreshing addition to a salad. These crisp and crunchy fruits are an excellent source of hydration, containing 96% water. They are also rich in vital minerals and vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways cucumbers can benefit your health and well-being.
1: Fights Diabetes
Cucumbers are suitable for people with diabetes since they are low in carbs. Carbohydrates are often associated with increased blood sugar levels in the body. When you consume food rich in carbs, the body breaks them down into sugar, which enters the bloodstream and increases blood sugar levels.
People with diabetes are also at a high risk of experiencing dehydration. This is due to the frequent visits to the bathroom. Cucumbers contain high amounts of water, which helps keep their bodies hydrated.
2: Prevents Cancer
According to research, cucumbers contain bitter compounds known as cucurbitacins. Cucurbitacins inhibit the reproduction of breast cancer cells. Women should consume cucumbers regularly to protect themselves from breast cancer.
3: Promotes Skin Health
Cucumbers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. They help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. As a result, you’ll have healthy, youthful, and firmer skin.
The high water content in cucumbers also helps keep your skin hydrated and supple. Cucumber juice contains essential nutrients that moisturize skin cells and prevent skin dryness.
4: Strengthen Bones
Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins K and C which are important for bone health. According to the USDA, one cup of cucumbers (100 g) contains 2.8 mg of vitamin C and 16.4 mcg of vitamin K.
Vitamin K aids in the absorption of calcium and prevents bone fractures. On the other hand, vitamin C helps in the formation of collagen, which is essential in the development of bone matrix.
One cup of cucumber (100 g) also contains 16 g of calcium, which play an important role in strengthening your bones.
5: Increases Hydration
A healthy female adult should have about 55% of water in her body, while a healthy male adult should have about 60% of water. Cucumbers are made up of mostly water, making them an excellent choice to keep your body hydrated.
When you are hydrated, you reduce the risk of losing your strength and stamina, and your body organs will function as they should.
6: Aids Weight Loss
Cucumbers are high in fiber and low in calories. According to the USDA, a cup of cucumber (100 g) contains 15 calories and 0.5 g of fiber. The high fiber reduces your appetite by making you feel fuller for longer. When your appetite is low, you are less like to consume more junk food, thus reducing your overall calorie intake.
7: Reduces Inflammation
Cucumbers contain anti-inflammatory properties. They have antioxidants (lignans) and minerals (potassium and magnesium) that help reduce inflammation in the body.
According to the USDA, a cup of raw cucumber (100 g) contains 147 mg of potassium and 13 mg of magnesium, which, when consumed regularly, reduces inflammation.
8: Improves Digestion
Cucumbers are a good source of fiber, and they also have a high water content. The water keeps the digestive system hydrated, which helps prevent constipation. The fiber helps regulate bowel movements.
9: Regulates Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is said to be normal when it is within a range of 120/80 mmHg. If it goes higher than that, you may be at risk of developing hypertension. High blood pressure could cause stroke and even death.
However, cucumbers can help. According to the USDA, a cup of cucumber (100 g) contains 147 mg of potassium. The potassium in cucumbers helps regulates blood pressure. Potassium also helps counteract the effects of sodium in the diet, which can lead to high blood pressure.
