Cucumber, a Magic wand for Body and Skin Problems
Even though fresh cucumbers are mostly composed of water, they still pack a lot of nutrition. The flesh of cucumbers is a very good source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid. The hard skin is rich in fiber and a variety of minerals including magnesium, silica, molybdenum, and potassium.
Cucumber is an excellent source of silica, which is a trace mineral that contributes to the strength of our connective tissue.
Connective tissue is what holds our body together. Cucumbers are effective when used for various skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. They also contain ascorbic and caffeic acids. These acids prevent water retention. That may explain why when cucumbers are applied topically they are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns, and dermatitis.
To have a healthy glowing and smooth skin use this recipe
Blend 4 - 5 leafs of fresh mint.
Peel and deseed the cucumber.
Add mint leaves to the cucumber to make a puree.
Beat egg white and keep it separate, then add this egg white to the cucumber mixture.
Apply this evenly on your face for 20 minutes and then rinse it with water and pat it dry.
Nutritional Value of Cucumber
Given below is the amount of nutrients in 100 gm of raw, unpeeled cucumber:
• Carbohydrates - 3.63 gm
• Sugars - 1.67 gm
• Dietary Fiber - 0.5 gm
• Fat - 0.11 gm
• Protein - 0.65 gm
• Thiamin (Vitamin B1) - 0.027 mg
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - 0.033 mg
• Niacin (Vitamin B3) - 0.098 mg
• Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) - 0.259 mg
• Vitamin B6 - 0.040 mg
• Folate (Vitamin B9) - 7 ?g
• Vitamin C - 2.8 mg
• Calcium - 16 mg
• Iron - 0.28 mg
• Magnesium - 13 mg
• Phosphorus - 24 mg
• Potassium - 147 mg
• Zinc 0.20 mg
Here are some of the many health benefits of eating cucumbers.
1. They’re the perfect low calorie food
Cucumbers are the perfect food for anyone trying to lose a few pounds. One medium cucumber has only forty-two calories and is quite filling due to its high fiber content.
2. They’re good for re-hydration
Cool cucumbers are a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. Not only are they crisp and delicious, but their high water content makes them excellent for replacing fluids lost through sweating. Eating foods with high water content such as cucumbers is one way to protect against summertime dehydration and heat exhaustion.
3. They help to control blood pressure
Cucumbers are a good source of potassium and magnesium that help to control blood pressure. Studies have shown that diets high in these important minerals helps to lower blood pressure. Some sources recommend drinking a daily cup of cucumber juice to help control blood pressure. The drawback? You’ll miss out on the heart-healthy fiber found in the skin of the cucumber when it’s juiced. Cucumber skin is also a good source of silica which helps to maintain healthy connective tissue.
4. Vitamin Content
Cucumbers are a good source of the antioxidant vitamins A and C as well as folate.
Folate is particularly important during pregnancy as it helps to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the unborn baby. Folate also may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of homocysteine.
5. Fresh cucumber juice can provide relief from heartburn, acid stomach, gastritis and even ulcer.
6. Daily consumption of cucumber juice helps control cases of eczema, arthritis and gout
7. Cucumber contains Erepsin, the enzyme that helps in protein digestion.
8. Cucumber juice, when mixed with carrot juice, is said to be good for rheumatic conditions caused by excessive uric acid in the body.
9. Cucumber can prove to be beneficial for those suffering from diseases of the teeth and gums, especially in cases of pyorrhea.
10. Being rich in minerals, cucumber helps prevent splitting of nails of the fingers and toes.
11. Cucumber has been associated with healing properties in relation to diseases of the kidney, urinary bladder, liver and pancreas.
12. Those suffering from diabetes have been found to benefit from the consumption of cucumber/cucumber juice.
To get the maximum health benefits of eating cucumbers, it’s best to eat them unpeeled because the outer skin is a good source of fiber and minerals.
Conventional cucumbers may be waxed and have pesticide residues on their skin which can be difficult to remove, so it’s safest to buy organic.
Sources:
ehow.com
everynutrient.com
lifestyle.iloveindia.com
Other links:
Walnuts, one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids
Mint, An Herb with Remarkable Medicinal Properties
Avocados, a super-nutritious, wonderful food
Ginger, Natural Cure to Numerous Disorders
Tomatoes, the best source of lycopene
