Cucumbers have made a comeback in recent years as more and more health benefits are being discovered. From helping prevent serious ailments, to keeping you regular and even aiding in weight management, cucumbers have got you covered!
It is high in nutrients
Cucumbers are very low in calories and contain many vitamins and nutrients. The main vitamins and nutrients cucumbers contain are vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. The outside skin of the cucumber is also a great source of fiber that will help keep you regular.
Hydration
Many foods can also act as a source of water and serve hydration purposes. Cucumbers have a significant water content as it mainly consists of such. Many people add cucumbers to their bottled water or other drinks as the taste is not overpowering and it can aid in rehydrating you. This is a great tip to anyone who likes adding some fruits and veggies to their water to flavor it.
It contains antioxidants
There are many free radicals that form in our body that leads to oxidative stress from certain cellular processes. Antioxidants work to combat these free radicals and prevent them from harming our bodies and eventually preventing diseases such as cancer. Some of the antioxidants cucumbers contain include flavonoids and tannins.
It protects your bones
This is mainly due to the high amounts of vitamin K it contains. In recent studies, it has been found that a diet low in vitamin K increases the risk of bone fractures. Vitamin K also plays an important role in calcium absorption from the body. Calcium once again, plays a very important role in the health of bones.
It protects your skin against aging
Many of us have seen a movie where they put cucumbers on someone’s eyes or even gone for a facial yourself where they placed cucumbers over your eyes. There is actually a reason for this – that is that it can slow the aging process. Many cosmetic products even had cucumber or cucumber powders to their products and face creams so that it can reduce the effects of aging.
It can help with bad breath
Bad breath is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Cucumbers can counter this by causing the mouth to salivate more, which flushes away these bacteria and helps control the smell of your breath a little bit more.
They are versatile
As mentioned previously, cucumbers have a very subtle taste and will not overpower your cooking at all. This means you can add it to many foods. That smoothie that you are planning on having for breakfast? Yes! That salad that you are making for lunch? Of course!
Cucumbers can help with weight control
It is true that there does not exist one solution to weight management, but cucumbers will definitely help you on your way. Due to its low-calorie content, it is a snack that can be enjoyed often and in reasonably large quantities. Many people enjoy eating it with some hummus as a dipping sauce. This is a delicious, filling and healthy snack. The fact that it is also high in fiber will prevent any constipation which could result in bloating and unnecessary weight gain.
