Who knew that one simple fruit could have so many health benefits? An article published in The New York Times several weeks ago featured the many uses of cucumber. But what struck me the most were its nutritional properties.
Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day. As a matter of fact, one cucumber contains vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin C, and calcium.
Cucumbers can serve as a quick pick me up. Since cucumbers are a good source of B vitamins and carbohydrates they can be used to provide a quick pick-me-up. So next time you’re feeling tired in the afternoon grab a cucumber instead of coffee or soda!
Cucumbers help your skin stay soft and supple. The phytochemicals present in cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layers. Place slices of cucumbers all over your face, even around the delicate eye area!
Cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating which also contributes to glowing skin. Cucumbers can be used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn.
Cucumbers can help you avoid dehydration that causes hangover headaches. Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed to wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers also contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to help replenish essential nutrients the body looses after excessive alcohol consumption.
Cucumbers can help to reduce stress. Place slices of cucumber in a pot of boiling water, the chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber will react with the boiling water and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma with stress reducing properties.
Cucumber can help to freshen up your breath. Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath. Cucumber juice is also used to help diseases of the teeth and gums such as pyorrhea.
Cucumbers are very high in potassium. This makes them an excellent choice for helping to regulate conditions such as high and low blood pressure.
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