Beyond the beneficial cosmetics for which it is used, consuming cucumber can also bring a lot of benefits. If we include it in our daily diet. Although many think that it is a vegetable, it is actually a fruit and nothing else, commonly green but full of nutrients.
Among them, vitamin C, A, potassium and folic acid are some of the contributions that we can obtain from this fruit rich in fibre. Other minerals that cucumber has are molybdenum, ascorbic acid and magnesium.
The water and fibre provided by cucumber improve the speed and ease of metabolism. In addition, it helps to improve the pH of the stomach, and provides fibre to promote digestion. On the other hand, the insoluble fibre and the water of the cucumber ensure the healthy expulsion of toxins. Similarly, clinical studies indicate that cucumber peel can reduce blood sugar levels, which makes it ideal for patients with diabetes.
As you can see these are some of the benefits of cucumber. Although this article takes a closer look at some of the healthy reasons why we should consume cucumber.
1. Consuming cucumber helps us fight free radicals
Antioxidants are molecules that help block oxidation. This chemical reaction is responsible for forming highly reactive atoms with unpaired electrons that we know as free radicals. Which are highly harmful and their accumulation can lead to various types of chronic diseases. This is how oxidative stress caused by free radicals has been associated with cancer and certain heart, lung and autoimmune diseases.
Fortunately, fruits and vegetables, including cucumbers, are especially rich in beneficial antioxidants that can reduce the risk of these conditions. The antioxidants in cucumber are effective in fighting free radicals in the bloodstream. In fact, the tannins and flavonoids in cucumber fight autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, these antioxidants, along with the vitamin C and beta-carotene in cucumber, rejuvenate the tissues of the body.
2. Consuming cucumber helps relieve stress
Cucumber contains multiple B vitamins, which are very effective in relaxing the nervous system and reducing high levels of stress. Especially vitamin B7 (biotin), B1 and B5 calm the nerves and alleviate any feelings of anxiety. Being the apple and cucumber smoothies or the lemon and cucumber juice, a natural resource to relieve fatigue or headaches produced by tension.
3. Consuming cucumber can help us lose weight
Consuming cucumber is ideal for weight control regimes and this rich in fibre fruit can help us in this mission in different ways. First of all, they are low in calories. So a 100 gram serving contains only 16 calories, while a 300-gram whole cucumber contains only 45 calories.
Which means that we can eat a lot of cucumbers without accumulating extra calories that ultimately lead to weight gain. This is how they can be used to add freshness and flavour to salads, sandwiches and side dishes. In addition, they can be used as a replacement for other foods with more calories.
Besides, due to their high water content, cucumbers also help us to feel satisfied, which also favours weight loss.
4. Cucumber helps keep us hydrated
The role of water in the functioning of the body is no secret to anyone, playing numerous important roles such as temperature regulation and the transport of waste products and nutrients. So not having adequate hydration can affect everything from physical performance to metabolism.
Although, we satisfy our hydration needs by drinking water and other fluids. In some cases, it is possible to obtain 40% of the water we need from the food we eat, cucumber being one of them.
This is thanks to the fact that cucumbers are composed of approximately 96% water, which makes them especially effective in keeping us hydrated and helping us meet our daily fluid needs.
5. Cucumber is high in nutrients
Although cucumbers are low in calories, they have the advantage of being rich in many important vitamins and minerals. Among its vitamins, the ones that stand out the most are folic acid and vitamin C. While, in the case of minerals, the main ones are potassium, phosphorus and calcium. And to a lesser extent are the contributions of magnesium, iron and zinc.
But we must not forget that cucumbers have a higher nutritional content such as fibre and vitamin A, which can be lost when peeled. So to get the most out of their nutrient content, cucumbers should be eaten unpeeled.
6. Consuming cucumbers can help maintain beautiful and healthy skin
Due to its high content of water and fibre, cucumbers have a gel-like texture, whose moisturizing effect also serves for skin care. Dark spots, sunburn, and puffiness under the eyes can be treated by applying the cucumber gel. In addition, cucumber is made up of 96% water and also contains vitamin E, natural oils and minerals. What make it a great ally to hydrate, repair and protect the skin.
On the other hand, the presence of vitamins A, C, and E in cucumber give it useful antioxidant properties against wrinkles and aging. Thanks to this, we can take care of our skin from the inside or the outside taking advantage of the benefits of cucumber for beauty.
7. Helps regulate blood pressure
Science has shown that fruits high in fibre, potassium, and magnesium can control blood pressure. Cucumber being an example of those fruits that reduce blood pressure and improve the structure of connective tissues.
8. Helps fight constipation
Dehydration is an important risk factor for constipation, as it can alter the water balance and make it difficult for stool to pass. But fortunately consuming cucumbers can help us maintain regular bowel movements. Due to the fact that cucumbers are high in water content and promote hydration. Which can improve stool consistency, prevent constipation, and help maintain regularity.
In addition, cucumbers contain fibre, which helps increase the frequency of bowel movements.
ALFA