The benefits of cucumber and its effect on health
Cares for You

The benefits of cucumber and its effect on health

By Eloísa Carmona - 2021-06-14T13:35:55Z
Composed mostly of water, the cucumber offers benefits beyond hydration, which is no small feat, as it also provides a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and can be a useful ally when you're looking to lose weight.Cucumbers are low in calories, and a 300-gram unpeeled cucumber contains only 45 calories, 11 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, and 2 grams of fiber. In terms of vitamins and minerals, it provides percentages of the daily intake of vitamin C, K, magnesium, potassium, and manganese ranging from 10 to 15 percent.Additionally, cucumbers are composed of approximately 96% water, so they can help you meet your daily liquid requirements. Next, we will tell you more about the benefits of cucumbers.AntioxidantsAntioxidants are molecules that block oxidation caused by a chemical reaction that forms highly reactive atoms with unpaired electrons, known as free radicals. These harmful free radicals can accumulate and lead to various types of chronic diseases, but they can be fought with fruits and vegetables, including cucumbers, rich in beneficial antioxidants that can reduce the risk of these conditions.This is supported by a petri dish study that investigated the antioxidant properties of cucumbers and found that they contain flavonoids and tannins, two groups of compounds particularly effective in blocking harmful free radicals.May reduce blood sugarSeveral studies have found that cucumbers may help lower blood sugar levels and prevent some complications of diabetes. For example, an animal study examined the effects of various plants on blood sugar and demonstrated that cucumbers effectively reduce and control blood sugar levels. However, current evidence is limited to petri dish and animal studies, so more research is needed to determine how cucumbers may affect blood sugar in humans.Promotes regular bowel movementEating cucumbers may help maintain regular bowel movements due to their high water content. Staying hydrated can improve stool consistency, prevent constipation, and help maintain regularity. Additionally, cucumbers contain fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements. In particular, pectin, the type of soluble fiber found in cucumbers, can help increase the frequency of bowel movements.Cucumber is also very easy to include in your daily meals, from a simple cucumber lemon water to salads, snacks, or cold soups; be sure to try our cucumber recipes at home.Mexican-style stuffed cucumbers with tunaCreamy cucumber, chayote, ham, and celery saladVegan aguachile