Cucumber is a widely used vegetable that is part of the gourd family. Cucumber plant is a creeping vine and there are a few varieties of cucumbers available in different regions of the world. Cucumber is a South Asian plant but now is grown all over the world. Cucumber is eaten raw or in a salad. It is also used as an ingredient in many savory dishes all over the world. Cucumber is a cooling ingredient and it is especially popular in the summer months when people like to eat something that is fresh and light. Cucumber is not just a simple ingredient used in cooking. It is specially added to the diet for many health reasons. Cucumber has many health benefits and not many people are aware of most of the benefits of cucumber in the daily diet. Cucumber can be used in the diet in a variety of ways. Some of the dishes made by using cucumber include cucumber soup, pickled cucumber, juice, salad, as a topping, in side dishes like raita and tzatziki and also in appetizers and canapés. Including cucumber to the diet is the right idea and following are some of the health benefits of cucumber that are not well known:
Health Benefits of Cucumber
Rich in Antioxidants
Cucumber is rich in antioxidants that are needed to block oxidation in the body that happens due to free radicals. Flavonoids and tannins in cucumbers are necessary to fight and prevent chronic diseases.
Improves Digestion
Cucumbers provide the body with two main ingredients needed for healthy digestion which is fiber and water. Healthy digestive system washes away the toxins and improves the overall health of the body.
High in Nutrients
There are many nutrients provided by cucumbers. This includes proteins, fibers, vitamin C, Vitamin K, and other types of minerals are provided by cucumber. Other nutrients include manganese, potassium, and magnesium.
Helps in Weight Loss
Cucumber is a top ingredient to use in various healthy recipes that are perfect for weight loss. Cucumber is a great ingredient as it is high in water content and packs very few calories. This helps in weight loss and decreases the rate at which weight gain takes place.
Prevents Brain Disease
The anti-inflammatory flavanoid called fisetin which helps improve brain health. It protects the brain from different types of diseases like Alzheimer’s. It improves memory, protects the nervous system, and also helps improve learning impairments.
Helps Fight Cancer
Cucumbers provide the body with polyphenols called lignans and phytonutrients called cucurbitacins which lower the risks of a large number of cancers. These nutrients help prevents cancers like ovarian cancer, prostate cancers, uterine and breast cancers.
Keeps Heart Healthy
Cucumber is a great food item for heart health. It provides the body with potassium which is essential for the improved working on the heart. It lowers blood pressure levels and also reduces the blood sugar level. It helps the nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction and overall heart function making it a top choice for improving heart health.
Maintains Hydration
Cucumbers are over 95% water. This means cucumber provide necessary bodily fluids and also increase the overall hydration in the body. This is particularly beneficial for people living in dry, arid and extremely hot climates.
Helps Manage Stress
Stress is a major factor in our daily lives. To deal with the stress it is necessary to have to calm fresh ingredients in the diet. Cucumber provides the body with essential B vitamins like Vitamin B1, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin B7 which is Biotin. These vitamins are necessary to ease anxiety and reduce the overall feeling of stress. Mental health is a major factor these days and cucumbers help maintain good mental health.