12 Reasons To Consume Cucumber Regularly
As delicious as it is nutritious and healthy, cucumber cares for the kidneys and skin, regulates cholesterol levels and helps with weight loss. Do you need more reasons to consume it? Here they are !
Foods of plant origin are rich sources of nutrients and guarantee the protection of the body against many types of diseases while providing vitality. These foods include cucumber, a food that should not be missing from our diet because of its many benefits.
Grown in many places around the world due to its versatility and nutritional value, it comes in different sizes, shapes and colors. Cucumber is a natural source of water, fiber, vitamins and many other nutrients that are beneficial for health.
At almost any time of the year we can find fresh cucumbers in the supermarket. They are ideal for salads, smoothies and many other recipes.
Here we want to share with you the 12 reasons why cucumber can not be missing in your diet. You will realize that this is an essential ingredient. Do you consume it?
1. Cucumber helps to lose weight
People who are trying to improve their diet to lose a few extra pounds may find cucumber to be a great ally. Given its high water content, it is one of the vegetables with the lowest caloric index : 1 full cup of cucumber provides only 13 calories.
Cucumber contains fiber and antioxidant substances that improve digestion and all the functions involved in weight loss.
And as if all of that wasn’t enough already, cucumber provides a strong feeling of fullness that serves to control anxiety and eating disorders, as explained in this article published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
2. It hydrates the body
Its high water and mineral salt content is a perfect solution for daily hydration and to fight against the symptoms of dehydration.
3. It detoxifies the body
According to popular beliefs, cucumber helps purify the body due to its diuretic effect. This is why we also hear that cucumber stimulates the function of the purifying organs of the body, thus making the process of detoxifying the blood easier.
However, it should be noted that no scientific evidence yet confirms that foods or natural remedies can detoxify the body.
4. It is good for the joints
Although there is no scientific study confirming this belief, it seems that cucumber, because of its significant contribution of silicon, is a great ally in preserving joint health. This substance strengthens connective tissues and thus reduces the risk of suffering from a serious disorder such as gout or arthritis.
5. It lowers cholesterol levels
According to popular beliefs, because of its high water content and its sterol intake, cucumber is an effective food for lowering high cholesterol. Sterols inhibit oxidation of the arteries and decrease the likelihood of suffering from a blockage.
In addition, fiber intake partially blocks the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, according to experts.
6. It fights against constipation
The fibers natural and water are a perfect combination to stimulate intestinal transit and reduce constipation.
Their presence in the body improves digestive processes and lubricates the stool, which facilitates their expulsion.
7. It accelerates the recovery of the skin
The vitamin E present in cucumber, in addition to regulating the natural pH of the skin, makes it a good remedy for sunburns and scars. Antioxidants promote cell regeneration and reduce damage caused by free radicals.
You can apply cucumber slices topically to improve your skin health.
8. It improves kidney health
Both in its natural state and as a juice, cucumber is excellent for combating water retention and for expelling substances that cause kidney stones.
We can also highlight its ability to reduce the presence of uric acid, a substance which, in excess, can be the cause of serious illnesses. However, this information comes from popular wisdom: there is no scientific evidence to support this belief. We know, however, that proper hydration decreases the risk of having kidney stones.
9. Cucumber cleanses hair and nails
On the aesthetic level, the cucumber also has important qualities which are not negligible.
Its high supply of silicon and its contribution of sulfur strengthen the hair and nails which then grow in better health.
10. It keeps fresh breath
The phytochemicals in this vegetable also work against bacteria that cause oral infections and bad breath. Chewing a piece for 15 or 20 minutes refreshes the gums.
Bad breath is usually a multifactorial problem. Alone, cucumber is therefore not the solution to solve this problem. If you are affected by this problem, it is best to consult a specialist.
11. It regulates blood pressure
The fiber, magnesium, and potassium in cucumber are essential for regulating blood pressure levels. Thus, hypertension and hypotension can be treated with cucumber.
12. Cucumber, a versatile food
Cucumber can be eaten raw, cooked, in the form of a puree, in a smoothie… Its interesting organoleptic qualities make it possible to enrich many culinary preparations.
It is therefore easy to incorporate this food into your diet. It is enough simply to determine how we prefer it in order to incorporate it regularly in his diet. Keep in mind that the best way to consume vegetables is always in their natural state, so we take advantage of all their micronutrients which sometimes disappear during cooking.
Cucumber, a healthy and fresh food
It’s amazing that such a common and delicious vegetable can bring so many benefits to the body. It is no coincidence that it is the fourth most cultivated vegetable in the world. Enjoy it!
However, it is important to incorporate it into a healthy and balanced diet. Cucumber should not replace any pharmacological treatment: it is not a healing food.
