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Who enjoys snacking on cucumber as much as I do?

The benefits derived from this fruit are amazing!

Do you have bad breath or have you ever been around someone who does?

Cucumber sure helps, people! A few slices of these cuties would do you/them so much good.

Just like zucchini, bitter gourd, and other types of melon, cucumber belongs to the cucurbitaceae family.

It originates from South Asia, but today, it is cultivated everywhere.

This super food is loaded with water, very low quantities of sodium, cholesterol and calories. Who does not like that?

For centuries, cucumbers have had a strong presence in the Mediterranean diet, and have been a constituent of herbal medications in India.

Benefits

Are you looking for ways to feel better?

Consider incorporating plenty of cucumbers to your diet and you would be glad you did.

Cucumbers contain certain properties that help lower lipids, and prevent the body from overheating thus exerting a natural cooling effect.

This food is a powerhouse of essential nutrients namely; potassium, manganese, copper, as well as vitamins A, B, and C.

In addition, I cannot over emphasize its benefits to one’s beauty regimen. Who does not like a glowing skin? Its soothing wonders are simply amazing!

Yes, say goodbye to a dull-looking skin when you use beauty products containing reliable quantities of cucumber.

You could also make a poultice out of cucumber, and apply as a face pack or apply directly as an astringent.

Cucumbers could be eaten with/without the skin as a salad or a snack, but this depends on the type of cucumber.

Facts

The main component of cucumber is water.

Cucumber has a soothing effect on the skin.

Its high fiber content improves on the gut health, and aids digestion, because it contains an enzyme called erepsin(which promotes it and facilitates in the absorption of protein).

A research study has proven, that cucumber might help fight against cancer.

Help fight cardiovascular diseases, because it contains lignan.

It could be added to a variety of foods, because of its versatility.

1. Stay hydrated

Take advantage of the 96% water and electrolyte content in cucumbers in meeting your daily fluid needs during a hot weather, and during/after workouts.

Hydration prevents constipation, promotes the transportation of waste products and nutrients to their target areas, increases metabolism, promotes thermo-regulation, and avoids the formation kidney stones.

2. Bone health

8.5 micrograms (mcg) of Vitamin K is found in cucumbers.

Some amounts of calcium are also present in this food.

The former helps in the absorption of calcium, and calcium is very beneficial for the ossification of bones.

3. Alkalizing effect

Eliminate those annoying free radical cells that cause signs associated with cancer; by maintaining an optimal PH level.lDrink cucumber water as often as possible to increase your body’s alkalinity.

4. Reduces cancerous signs at early stages

Cucurbitacin, lutein, fisetin and caffeic acid are constituents of cucumber which have the potential of reducing early signs of cancer.

The presence of phytochemicals and antioxidants in cucumbers; portray strong anti-cancer properties, boost immunity, and help eliminate the annoying free radical cells. Is this not wonderful?

5. Lowers blood sugar levels

Some animal test-tube studies proven, that cucumber could help lower blood sugar levels.

In a study to examine the effect of certain plants on the control of blood sugar level, cucumber was shown to have reduced blood sugar levels.

A different animal study revealed a decrease in blood sugar and a reversal of the diabetes- associated changes in induced mice.

6. Improves cardiovascular health

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends the consumption of foods rich in fiber.

Cucumbers have fiber, potassium, and magnesium; which are excellent in maintaining great blood pressure, while fiber helps prevent accumulation of cholesterol and other associated cardiovascular risks.

7. Better eye health

Improve your vision by eating cucumbers as often as possible and reap the benefits of those anti inflammatory and antioxidants that chase cataracts away.

Dear Healthy Primers, now you know! Go ahead and eat cucumbers, because your body needs them!