How to Understand the Health Benefits of Cucumbers

The lowly cucumber is surprisingly healthy and nutritious, and they make a delicious summertime treat. Here are some of the many health benefits of eating cucumbers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. They’re the perfect low calorie food
   
   Cucumbers are the perfect food for anyone trying to lose a few pounds. One medium cucumber has only forty-two calories and is quite filling due to its high fiber content. Cucumbers dipped into a low-fat, creamy dip is a quick and easy, guilt-free snack that won’t end up on the waistline.

2. They’re good for re-hydration
   
   Cool cucumbers are a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. Not only are they crisp and delicious, but their high water content makes them excellent for replacing fluids lost through sweating. Eating foods with a high water content such as cucumbers is one way to protect against summertime dehydration and heat exhaustion.

3. They help to control blood pressure
   
   Cucumbers are a good source of potassium and magnesium that help to control blood pressure. Studies have shown that diets high in these important minerals helps to lower blood pressure. Some sources recommend drinking a daily cup of cucumber juice to help control blood pressure. The drawback? You’ll miss out on the heart-healthy fiber found in the skin of the cucumber when it’s juiced. Cucumber skin is also a good source of silica which helps to maintain healthy connective tissue.

4. Vitamin Content
   
   Cucumbers are a good source of the antioxidant vitamins A and C as well as folate. Folate is particularly important during pregnancy as it helps to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the unborn baby. Folate also may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of homocysteine.

5. Cucumbers aren’t good just for eating. Cool cucumber slices laid over tired, swollen eyes helps to reduce water retention and puffiness. This is thought to be due to the caffeic and ascorbic acids cucumbers contain.

Tips & Warnings

• To get the maximum health benefits of eating cucumbers, it’s best to eat them unpeeled because the outer skin is a good source of fiber and minerals.
• Conventional cucumbers may be waxed and have pesticide residues on their skin which can be difficult to remove, so it’s safest to buy organic.