HEALTHY FOOD · JULY 2018
THE GREATNESS OF CUCUMBERS
Originating in India , the cucumbers are a fruit most commonly used for salads and snacks . What people may not know , is that the fruit may be used for skin- , health- , and beauty-care because of its vitamins and minerals . For instance , it ’ s vitamins both C and K , betacarotene , and manganese can be used to help skin and hair .
CUCUMBERS FOR EATING
While cucumbers are commonly eaten throughout the globe , many are not fully aware of its benefits . Cucumbers are 95 % water , which makes them ideal for hydration and cooling . Cucumbers also contain fisetin which is an anti-inflammatory flavonoid that may be important to your brain ’ s health . Studies have suggested that increasing the consumption of plant foods like cucumbers decreases the risk of obesity , diabetes , and heart disease while promoting a healthy complexion , causing increased energy , and overall lower weight . Low intake of vitamin K has been associated with a higher risk for bone fracture . Adequate vitamin K consumption can be achieved by eating a proper intake of fruits and vegetables ( one cup of cucumber provides 11 percent of your daily needs ) and is essential for improving calcium absorption which is vital for optimal bone health . Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans , which can help to lower your risk of breast , uterine ovarian , and prostate cancers . Cucumbers are an excellent source of B vitamins . They are also low on calories but rich in fiber which makes them great for snacking on instead of junk food . Cucumbers are even great for dogs and cats !
CUCUMBERS FOR SKIN-CARE
Cucumbers can also help ease dark circles because of the aforementioned cooling properties along with the antioxidants and silica present in cucumber which can help rejuvenate the skin . It can also restore and even out your skin complexion , as well as being beneficial for firming and tightening skin . This is because of potassium and manganese which reside in cucumbers . The juice can relieve the oiliness of the skin and in turn , help rid your skin of blemishes and acne . The juice due to its substantial water content ( 95 %) can also moisturize your skin and could be natural replacement to creamers . It also contains antioxidants and resolves inflammation on the skin smoothly and it can help lighten the skin and relieve it from clogged pores and excessive oil . Cucumbers are also a natural bleaching agent which makes them useful for reducing scars and skin tan removal .
CUCUMBERS FOR HAIR
Because cucumbers are high in silica , sulfur , and vitamin A they can help keep healthy hair growth and leave you with a shiny , silky texture while preventing hair loss and hair thinning when the juice is applied directly to the scalp and hair . A suggestion from Livestrong . com is to “ Massage the scalp with oil extracted from cucumber seeds through the process of cold-pressing , which preserves the nutritious properties . Some hair thinning and loss can be due to dryness of the scalp , and the oil contains hydrating and restorative nutrients , such as tocopherols and phytosterols .”
HOW ADD CUCUMBERS TO YOUR DIET
Cucumbers can be delicious in salads , and sandwiches while being a great snack food .
By Sarah Roach
38 HEALTHY MAGAZINE