Green and succulent, cucumbers are packed with nutrients required by the body for healthy living. They are low in calories and high in soluble fibre and good amount of water. They are not just foods, cucumbers have skin repair properties. They also contains unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and much more.
Here are 5 amazing benefits of cucumber:
1. It protects the brain
Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin which plays a major role in the brain function. Cucumbers improves ones memory and protects nerve cells from deteriorating.
2. It reduces the risk of cancer
Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol) and phytonutrients called cucurbitacins which, which may help to lower the risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
3. It manages diabetes
Cucumbers have been known to be useful for diabetic patients. Cucumbers have a hormone required by the beta cells during insulin production. The carbohydrates present in the cucumber can be easily digested by diabetic patients. Thus, the consumption of cucumbers coordinates their glucose level.
4. It fights bad breath
The rich water component in cucumber boosts the production of mouth saliva upon consumption. This helps wash away the bacteria that causes the odour in the mouth.
5. It cleanses the body
Cucumber has excellent cleansing properties which actively eradicate accumulated toxins from the body system. These properties also help in the removal of uric acid, it has, therefore, been effective for the treatment of arthritis. Cucumber is very good for optimizing urinary bladder, kidney, liver and pancreatic functions. It is also considered a natural diuretic because it aids in urine secretion.
6. It builds the bones
Cucumber is a good source of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for bone health, as low vitamin K intakes have been associated with a higher risk of bone fracture.
7. It protects the heart
Cucumbers contain potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure levels. As an electrolyte, potassium is a positively charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration (about 30 times higher inside than outside your cells) in order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function.