Cucumbers are the fourth most cultivated
vegetable in the world and known to be one of
the best foods for your body’s overall health,
often referred to as a super food ( 1).
Cucumbers are scientifically known as Cucumis
sativus and belong to the same botanical family
as melons, watermelons, pumpkins and other
types of summer squash.
Cucumbers are extremely beneficial for overall
health, especially during the summer since it is
mostly made of water and important nutrients
that are essential for the human body.
The flesh of cucumbers is rich in vitamin A,
vitamin C, and folic acid while the hard skin of
cucumbers is rich in fiber and a range of
minerals include magnesium, molybdenum, and
potassium.

1. Skin Care
Cucumber is rich in silica, which is the essential
component that aids in developing strong and
healthy connective tissues in the muscles,
ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bone.
Doctors often recommend cucumber juice
because of the silica content to create healthier
and brighter skin.
Cucumber’s high water content makes it
naturally hydrating, and it is well known that
moisture is the best friend to healthy skin, so
why not acquire the hydration naturally?
The extract of cucumbers is often used topically
for treating various types of skin ailments,
including sunburn and swelling under the eyes.
Ascorbic acid and caffeic acid are the two vital
compounds in cucumbers that prevent water loss
from the body. These are some of the reasons
why cucumbers are applied topically for various
skin problems.

2. Prevents Constipation
Cucumbers are a perfect blend of both fiber and
water. Therefore, it helps to protect your body
from constipation ( 2).
The amount of calories in cucumber is very low,
but its fiber content adds to your bowel bulk and
relieves problems like constipation.
So by drinking cucumber juice, you consume
both fiber and water at the same time.
Cucumber is also a good source of vitamin C,
silica, potassium and magnesium; which all have
their own health benefits.
Cucumbers have an extraordinary amount of
water (about 96%) that is naturally purified, thus
making the water content much higher in quality
than ordinary water.
Cucumber skin contains high levels of vitamin A,
so you will gain more nutrition if you eat the
entire thing, skin and all.

3. Manage Diabetes and Controls Blood Pressure
Cucumbers possess a hormone required by the
beta cells of the pancreas for insulin production
and it has been found to be beneficial to diabetic
patients.
The Glycemic Index of cucumbers is actually
zero. Every food item contains essential nutrients
in different percentages.
The carbohydrates contribute in raising the
glucose level, however the carbohydrates present
in the cucumber can be easily digested by
diabetic patients.
Thus, consumption of cucumbers keeps the
glucose level in check.
Cucumber has mild diuretic properties owing to
its high potassium and water content that
regulate the blood pressure and treat both high
and low blood pressure ( 3)

4. Keeps the Body Healthy and Functioning
Cucumbers have excellent cleaning properties,
and actively remove accumulated waste and
toxins from your body.
Since it aids in urine secretion, cucumber is
considered a natural diuretic.
Cucumbers are very good for optimizing urinary
bladder, kidney, liver and pancreatic functions.
Cucumber juice along with carrot juice is
extremely effective for rheumatic conditions
caused by excessive uric acid in the body.
It is good for digestion, especially of proteins,
and it controls blood pressure and diabetes
mellitus. Drinking cucumber juice on a regular
basis also helps to cure gout and eczema .
It also promotes muscle flexibility, while the
magnesium content of cucumbers ensures
proper blood circulation and relaxed nerves.

5. Prevents Cancer
A recent study has found cucumber to be an
effective remedy to fight different kinds of
cancer. Cucumbers are known to contain lignans
that are found to reduce the risks of developing
breast cancer, uterine cancer, and prostate
cancer ( 4).
It has some of the most important ingredients
such as lariciresinol, pinoresinol,
secoisolariciresinol that help in reducing the risk
of all types of cancer.
Vitamin C found in cucumber seeds acts as an
antioxidant and also improves the immunity
system.

6. Promotes joint health, relieves Gout and
Arthritis pain
Cucumber is an excellent source of silica, which
is known to help promotes joint health by
strengthening the connective tissues ( 5).
Vitamin K in cucumbers plays a very important
role in strengthening bones by promoting
orthotropic activity ( 6).
They are also rich in vitamin A, B1, B6, C & D,
Folate, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium.
When mixed with carrot juice, they can relieve
gout and arthritis pain by lowering the uric acid
levels

7. Good for Dental Health
Cucumber also combats bad breath. The fruit
releases phytochemicals that kill the bad breath
causing bacteria ( 7 ).
Cucumber juice can effectively treat gum
diseases like pyorrhoea and weak gums ( .
Cucumber keeps gums and teeth healthy as it
removes bad odor from the mouth. The
photochemical present in it kills the bacteria in
the mouth.
Regular consumption of cucumber with the
seeds neutralizes acids in the mouth and
promotes salivation.

8. Reduces Inflammation
Fresh cucumber extracts are also known to
reduce unwanted inflammation ( 9).
It accomplishes the task by inhibiting the
production of prostaglandin, the inflammatory
compound. Cucumber has a substance called
beta-carotene. This acts as an antioxidant .
It helps fight free radicals and controls damage.
It also promotes healing.
Cucumbers are also rich in flavonoids which are
great for reducing inflammation.


source: http://www.currenthealthtips.com/2017/03/8-amazing-health-benefits-cucumber/

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