My garden is overflowing with cucumbers right now. It is so exciting. Cucumbers have a myriad of health benefits. If you don’t have a garden you will find lots of cucumbers in the farmers market. Most of the nutrients are in the skin. Buy organic so you can leave the skins on. Since they are 95% water they will keep you hydrated this summer. Go out and get some cucumbers, your body will thank you.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers
Keeps You Hydrated
Munching on cucumbers will hydrate your body keeping your energy levels up. Your body needs water to transport nutrients to the cells. Cucumbers are full of vitamin rich water.
Balances Your pH
The water in cucumber is highly alkaline with electrolytes to lower the acids in your system. The cooling effect of cucumber helps reduce heartburn.
Removes Toxins
The water in the cucumber acts like a hose, flushing waste products out of your system.
Good for Your Kidneys
Cucumber lowers uric acid levels in your system, keeping the kidneys happy. Cucumbers and cucumber juice has been shown to dissolve kidney stones.
Stabilizes Blood Pressure
Cucumbers are full of magnesium and potassium the minerals needed for balanced blood pressure.
Boost Your Immunity
Cucumbers are full of vitamin A, B and C (mostly in the skin) which boost your immune system. Juicing cucumbers with celery, spinach and parsley will keep you radiantly healthy.
Good For Your Skin
The minerals magnesium, potassium and silicon along with their hydration increase the elasticity of your skin. Many spas use them to reduce inflammation. You can apply cucumber to a sunburn for relief.
Helps Balance Blood Sugar
Cucumbers contain a hormone needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin. When your blood glucose levels are too high, water plays an important role in flushing excess sugar from your body. Since 95 percent of a cucumber is water it can help lower your blood sugar. They are high in fiber, low in sugar and starch.
Freshens Your Breath
Cucumbers contain a photochemical that fights the bacteria that causes bad breath. Take a slice of cucumber and hold it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to a minute. Remove or chew it up for a healthy snack. Your mouth will be refreshed.
Boosts Your Energy
These portable vegetables are full of vitamins, electolyes and water needed to restore energy and replenish nutrients. Dip some cucumber crunchy cucumber sticks into some tahini dressing. You will feel nourished and energized.
Cancer Prevention
Studies have shown eating cucumbers can reduce your risk of cancer because of certain compounds they contain.
Good for the Digestive System
Cucumber are high in the fiber needed to get rid of toxins from the digestive system, improving the digestive process. Cucumbers can relive constipation. Cucumber juice daily can be beneficial for gastrointestinal problems.
Now that you know how great cucumbers are, here are some delicious recipes for them. Click on the links to get the recipes.
Paleo Cucumber Roll-Ups
Cucumber Water
Trim and discard ends of the cucumber. Cut into 1/2-inch slices. Combine cucumber with 1 quart of water in large pitcher; add in 1 lemon, sliced (optional) steep for 1 hour, and serve over ice.
