How Cool Are Cucumbers?

Until I began studying nutritional biochemistry,  I didn't think cucumbers were very cool at all.  I saw them as a pretty unimportant vegetable.  Boy!  was I mistaken.   Cucumbers are now a top pick in my book and a vegetable I've listed on my top 25 Super Foods list. 

So What's So Cool About Cucumbers?   They are a great food for anybody,  they are a super food for athletes!

Cucumbers are a great source of vitamin C and caffeic acid which are great for soothing skin irritations and reducing swelling - a natural anti-inflammatory.  Of course, vitamin C is important for a strong immune system.   In addition, cucumbers are  rich in potassium and magnesium, two nutrients that help us with electrolyte balance and bone health.  They contain a mineral called silica which is essential to healthy connective tissue - intracellular connective tissue, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, & bone.

Because of the high water content in cucumbers it is naturally hydrating.  Hydration is vital to everyone, especially since the majority of people are in a constant state of mild dehydration.  Most people simply do not consume enough pure water.  Their high water content also makes them very alkaline so they hekp combat internal acidity.  This in turn helps with disease prevention, strengthens the immune system, helps lower high blood pressure, and helps prevent osteoporosis and/or maintain a healthy bone density.

Cucumbers can be used topically to soothe the skin, especially sunburned skin.   They help prevent water retention.  And when they are eaten skin and all - they provide a great source of dietary fiber which helps with digestion and maintaining a clean, healthy colon. 

So I would say if you like cucumbers - eat up!


 
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To Your Best Health,
 
Melissa Guthrie
Fitness Trainer, Nutrition Coach,  Competitive Athlete, Healthy Cooking Enthusiast
BSc Nutritional Science, BSc  Exercise Physiology