Cucumbers are the fourth most cultivated vegetable in the world and are known to be one of the best foods for your body's overall health. Outlined in this article are a few of the numerous benefits of cucumber.
* Rehydrates the body: cucumbers contain over 90% water, so it keeps the body hydrated while clearing toxins from the system.
* Replenishes daily vitamins: cucumbers have 11 vitamins and minerals that your body needs every day.
* An aid for weight loss and improved digestion: due to its low calorie and high water content, cucumber is ideal for weight watchers, and its fibre is very effective in aiding digestion while preventing chronic constipation.
* Reduces cholesterol and controls blood pressure: cucumber contains a hormone which is needed for producing insulin. It also contains a lot of potassium, magnesium and fibre which work effectively for regulating blood pressure. This makes cucumbers beneficial to diabetic patients and good for regulating blood pressure.
* Skin and hair care: The skin of a cucumber can be used against skin irritations and sunburns. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness and swelling. The silicon and sulfur in cucumbers help to stimulate hair growth.
* Relieves bad breath: Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds; the phytochemicals will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.
* Hangover cure: To avoid a morning hangover or headache, eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish many essential nutrients, reducing the intensity of both hangovers and headaches.
* Promotes joint health, relieves gout and arthritis pain: Cucumber is an excellent source of silica, which is known to help promote joint health by strengthening the connective tissues. It is also rich in vitamins A, B1, B6, C & D, Folate, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. When mixed with carrot juice, it can relieve gout and arthritic pain by lowering the uric acid levels.