Did you ever wonder about the health benefits of eating cucumbers? You may be wondering why this fruit is so special (and yes, botanically speaking they are a type of fruit!), because they are generally a common food we consume, for instance in salads, sandwiches, dips, sauces and juices, to name a few. Other more exotic and tasty fruits like pineapples, passion fruit and lychees are often preferred over the humble cucumber.
However, did you know that this fruit is considered one of the superfoods of the world? Oh yes, they are!
Below are the top 10 health benefits of consuming this wonderful fruit:
They:
1. Lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
2. Help to clear out toxins in your body.
3. Are a natural moisturiser and deodorant.
4. Help you to stay hydrated.
5. Can replace various medicines, such as, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
6. Are rich in antioxidants.
7. Can assist in weight loss and have no fat.
8. Are naturally anti-inflammatory and can help with different types of skin problems, such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and dry skin.
9. Are a very low-calorie food.
10. Are rich in Vitamin C.
They are nutritious, contain a plethora of nutrients and are a rich source of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B1, beta-carotene, and folate. They help to detoxify the body, are a natural diuretic and are known to help treat urinary tract infections.
They are also known to be good for the skin – they are rich in vitamins and minerals that help to tighten the skin and keep it looking youthful. They help to remove blemishes and spots, dark circles and puffiness around the eyes – they are also considered to be a cooling agent for the eyes. This is why some people use the freshly extracted juice of this fruit for face masks.
Risks
Generally speaking this fruit is safe to consume. However, some of the risks associated with eating it include:
- They may cause blood clotting: foods high in vitamin K may counteract blood thinning medications.
- They may cause allergies: symptoms may include break outs in hives, difficulty breathing and swelling.
- They may be toxic for some people to consume: some types may cause illness.
Further, they are known to have a high pesticide exposure, therefore eating organic or home-grown ones may be a safer option for those concerned about the side effects of ingesting pesticides.
Summary
In summary, cucumbers are mild in taste, healthy, great for your skin, an excellent source of nutrients and help to cleanse your digestive system.
They can be bought from your local supermarket or can be home-grown. It is recommended that they be consumed as part of a balanced diet and eaten in moderation.
What are your thoughts about them – do you think your health benefits from them? Do they make a noticeable difference? We would love to know!
