About Cucumbers - The Lean, Green Machine

It’s delicious, crunchy and refreshing. Add low calorie content to that mix, and we have ourselves a winning combination! Cucumbers fall under two broad categories: slicing cucumbers and pickling cucumbers. Toss this versatile vegetable into a tomato cucumber salad, substitute it for crackers and relish it with a creamy dip or tuck into a cool cucumber soup- beat the heat in a healthy way this summer by adding your own twist to these delicious cucumber recipes.

Cucumber Nutrition and Health Benefits:

Under the impression that 15 calories per cup of sliced cucumbers is the only important benefit? Think again. 

 Cucumber Water

With a water content of 96%, the cucumber functions as a storehouse of nutritious water. It acts as a detoxifying agent, regulates the body temperature and revitalizes the body by hydrating it. You must have heard of the connection between high water intake and healthy, glowing skin?  If chugging countless glasses of water a day doesn’t suit your style, indulge in a few cucumbers to work your way towards fresh, radiant skin.
The high water content also encourages the cucumber to function as a diuretic. For those suffering from bladder or kidney stones, regular intake of cucumber juice can help to dissolve the stones without any side effects!

Cucumber Juice – A Health Potion 

Cucumber juice is a rich source of Fiber, Magnesium, Silica, Potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Vitamin C. These minerals and nutrients help to regulate blood pressure, prevent and cure teeth and gum diseases, and gradually cure cases of ulcers, heartburn, acidity and chronic constipation. But that’s not all, mix cucumber and carrot juice and you have a healthy fix for arthritis pain and gout!
Silica when ingested, not only works towards strengthening your joints, but also makes your finger and toe nails beautifully smooth and strong.
Research suggests that cucumber juice naturally contains a hormone needed by the pancreas to manufacture insulin. Diabetic patients are encouraged to consume cucumber juice regularly.

Cucumber Skin and Seeds

 These two parts may seem insignificant, but you will be surprised to know that they have a wholly unique set of health benefits. Cucumber seeds are a natural cure for the treatment of tapeworms. They may also be used to relieve swollen mucous membranes present in the nose and the throat. Cucumber skin can be used to soothe cases of sunburn and windburn.

Cures Constipation

Since it is a good source of fiber, it helps relieve constipation.

Radiant Skin

 Cucumbers contain certain substances that make the skin soft and smooth. Skin tightening can be achieved with cucumber facial masks. Dark Circles bothering you? Apply cucumber slices for an easy, natural fix! Cucumber slices are also known to reduce the swelling and puffiness around the eyes. Feel good and look fresh without paying a hefty bill at the spa!

Anti-Cancer Agent

 Cucumbers contain a trio of strong lignans- lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol- which are widely known to reduce the risk of several cancers including uterine cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer.

Anti-Oxidants

 Armed with Beta Carotene, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Lutein and Zea-xanthin, the cucumber slows down the onset of aging, and also protects the body from harmful diseases.

Treatment For Alzheimer’s Disease

 Cucumbers contain high levels of Vitamin K. This not only has bone fortifying properties, but is also known to limit the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by preventing neuronal damage.

Possible Health Concerns:

For those who are watching their weight, remember that even though cucumber skin has its own benefits, it also has its own share of calories. A peeled cucumber has fewer calories than an unpeeled one. The seeds may also cause intestinal gas. To prevent this, slice a cucumber in half along its length, scoop out the seeds and then slice it as you normally would.