Benefits of Cucumber And What You Need To Know

Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis sativus and belong to the same botanical family as melons (including watermelon and cantaloupe) and squashes (including summer squash, winter squash, zucchini and pumpkin). Commercial production of cucumbers is usually divided into two types. “Slicing cucumbers” are produced for fresh consumption. “Pickling cucumbers” are produced for eventual processing into pickles. Slicing cucumbers are usually larger and have thicker skins, while pickling cucumbers are usually smaller and have thinner skins.

Nutrition

Cucumber also contains a range of B vitamins, vitamin A, and antioxidants, including a type known as lignans.

Health benefits

1) Hydration

Cucumbers consist mostly of water, and they also contain important electrolytes. They can help prevent dehydration in hot weather or after a workout. For people who do not enjoy drinking water, adding cucumber and mint can make it more attractive. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy intestine, preventing constipation, avoiding kidney stones, and more. Cucumber is one of the most hydrating foods.

2) Bone health

Vitamin K helps with blood clotting, and it may support bone health.
A 142-gram (g) cup of chopped, unpeeled, raw cucumber provides 10.2 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin K, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend an intake of: 90 mcg a day for females aged 19 years and over 120 mcg for males of the same age Cucumber also contains 19.9 milligrams (mg) of calcium. Adults need 1,000-1,200 mg of calcium a day, depending on sex and age.
Vitamin K helps improve calcium absorption. Together, these nutrients can contribute to good bone health. Vitamin D is also important for bone health.

3. Cancer

As a member of the Cucurbitaceae family of plants, cucumbers contain high levels of bitter-tasting nutrients known as cucurbitacin.
According to an article in the International Journal of Health Services, cucurbitacins may help prevent cancer by stopping cancer cells from reproducing. A 133-g cup of chopped cucumber with its skin also provides around 1 g of fiber. Fiber may help protect against colorectal cancer.

4. Cardiovascular health

The American Heart Association (AHA) note that fiber can help manage cholesterol and prevent related cardiovascular problems.
A 142-g cup of unpeeled cucumber also provides 193 mg of potassium and 17 mg of magnesium. The Dietary Guidelines recommend that adults consume 4,700 mg of potassium each day and 310-410 mg of magnesium, depending on sex and age.
Reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium intake may help prevent high blood. The cucurbitacins in cucumber may also help prevent atherosclerosis.

5. Diabetes

Cucumbers may play a role in controlling and preventing diabetes. It contains substances that may help lower blood sugar or stop blood glucose from rising too high.

One theory is that the cucurbitacins in cucumber help regulate insulin release and the metabolism of hepatic glycogen, a key hormone in the processing of blood sugar.
One study found that cucumber peel helped manage the symptoms of diabetes in mice. This may be due to its antioxidant content.

Fiber, too, may help prevent and manage type 2 diabetes, according to the AHA. Cucumbers score low score on the glycemic index (GI). This means they provide essential nutrients without adding carbohydrates that can increase blood glucose.

6. Inflammation

Cucumbers may have anti-inflammatory benefits. Inflammation is a function of the immune system. Experts believe inflammation may help trigger the development of various health conditions, such as:

• cardiovascular disease
• diabetes
• autoimmune conditions
• depression cancer

7. Skin care

Some research has suggested that cucumber’s nutrients may provide benefits for skin health. Applying sliced cucumber directly to the skin can help cool and soothe the skin and reduce swelling and irritation. It can alleviate sunburn. Placed on the eyes, they can help decrease morning puffiness. Other cucumber beauty tips include:

Toner:

Blend and sieve cucumber to collect the juice for a natural toner. Leave on the skin for 30 minutes, then rinse. Cucumber may have astringent properties, and it may help clear the pores.

Face pack:

Mix equal amounts of cucumber juice and yogurt to make a face pack that helps reduce dry skin and blackheads. Cucumber is safe for most people to use on the skin. People should start by applying a small amount. If they do not experience an adverse reaction, it is probably safe to use.