Cucumber belongs to the botanical family Cucurbitaceae along with cantaloupe and watermelon. Recently, cucumber takes over the media as it gained popularity for its health benefits.
The USDA National Nutrient Database revealed the nutritional breakdown of cucumber to attest to its health benefits. In one cup of cucumber, it contains 115 grams of water, 16 calories, 0.8 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, 2.9 grams of carbohydrates, 0.9 grams fiber and 1.8 grams sugar. Thus, it is good to combat dehydration because of its water content.
For its vitamins, 11% contains vitamin K, 4% vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, 2% vitamin A, vitamin B complex and minerals like pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc and copper. Furthermore, cucumbers contain lignans which is proven to decrease the risk for cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Cucumber can alter acidity because the contents of cucumber are alkaline minerals. Furthermore, it keeps the body hydrated because it contains 96% water. It is also more nutritious than water so eating cucumber can help the body maintain hydration.
Cucumber is good for skin care. Due to its high water content and vitamins, it is essential to keep the skin smooth, radiant and young looking. It is also used nowadays to fight certain types of cancer. Cucumber contains lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol. These are lignans that have been proven effective in preventing cancers including breast cancer, prostate cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer.
It is high in fiber, potassium and magnesium that are potent in maintaining the blood pressure. Furthermore, it aids in the regulation of the cardiovascular system. Digestion is also made better through eating cucumbers. It can cure and prevent gastrointestinal disorders like gastritis, ulcer and heart burn.
Cucumber has been one of the most popular fruit since the discovery of its health benefits. Aside from aesthetics, it is now used as a major preventive fruit for a lot of illnesses.