For some,
the fruit is either tasteless or bitter, while for others, the fruit is
actually delicious. Regardless of how your genetic make-up affects your sense
of taste, the fruit remains one of the healthiest.
Loaded with
numerous beneficial nutrients, cucumbers could mean the difference between a
healthy life and an unhealthy person.
In other
words, thanks to its antioxidants and plant compounds, cucumbers can help
prevent and treat certain health conditions. Moreover, they can aid in weight
loss as we try and maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet.
Below, we
will take a look at some of the powerful and incredible benefits of the
cucumber fruit.
1. Aids in
Weight Loss and Weight Management.
Cucumbers
are undoubtedly low in calories. According to Rachel Link, MS, one cup of
cucumber serving or 104 grams of cucumbers contains at least 16 calories.
Hence, eating them does not essentially lead to a high-calorie intake.
Moreover,
cucumbers are said to have high water content. Rachel Link states that most
cucumbers are made up of about 96% water.
Studies show
that individuals that consume enough water on a daily basis are likely to
increase their metabolism and lose weight.
Hence,
cucumbers will help keep you hydrated. This plays a part in ensuring a fast
metabolism and improved physical performance. As a result, it will aid in
weight management.
2. Encourages Bone Health.
2. Encourages Bone Health.
Cucumbers
are loaded with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Copper and
Magnesium just to name a few. Vitamin K is essential in promoting and improving
proper bone formation and strength. Moreover, numerous studies have found that an
increased intake of Vitamin K could help prevent Osteoporosis and weak bones.
3. Reduces the Risk of Cancer.
3. Reduces the Risk of Cancer.
As recent
research reveals, cucumbers are loaded with a substance known as lignans. Once
in the digestive tract, the bacteria convert the lignans into compounds known
as estrogen receptors. These receptors, according to numerous studies, may help
prevent cancers that are estrogen related.
Lignans can also be found in flaxseeds,
strawberries and apricots just to name a few.
4. Boosts Cardiovascular Health.
4. Boosts Cardiovascular Health.
Cucumbers,
as previously mentioned, are high in antioxidants such as flavonoids.
Antioxidants fight and prevent oxidation, which is as a result of free
radicals. Free radicals, which then leads to oxidative stress often causes the
development of diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
However, the
antioxidants found in cucumbers fight off free radicals and help prevent the
development of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the antioxidants aid in
the lowering of bad cholesterol and the increase of good cholesterol.
5. Promote Smooth Skin.
5. Promote Smooth Skin.
The pulp of
the cucumber is said to contain caffeic acid, Vitamin C and water. Caffeic acid
is said to contain anti-inflammatory properties which are great in eliminating skin
irritations. Hence, cucumbers can also be used topically to help smooth skin,
treat, skin swellings, sunburns and acne as well.
So, whether
you find the cucumber fruit tasty or not, they are extremely beneficial for
you. By simply adding them to your salad, smoothie or side dish, you can boost
your health considerably.
