Health Benefits of Cucumbers

Broadway Beauty Lil Spa Room The Healthy Foodie Babble Future Executives Beauty Punk Image Map

 

Posted by Gwyn MacDonald

Cucumber Seeds
I recently planted cucumber seeds and I am forever amazed that a vast, sprawling plant that will feed me is locked away in that tiny, white seed. I look forward to the lovely vine with those gorgeous tendrils and of course the bright yellow flowers that just glow in the sun.

Cuke’ Benefits
While I planted I thought of all the yummy cucumber dishes in my near future. Then I thought about all the other benefits of these fabulous fruits. The few things I knew already had to do with hydration (cukes are 95% water!) and inflammation reduction (think cold cream and cuke slices over the eyes – yes, it works!).

But I did a little research and was pleasantly surprised to learn the following:
• Cucumbers contains loads of vitamin C (especially in the skin)
• They are a good source of B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, fiber and silica (beneficial for joint health)
• A helpful remedy to cool sunburned skin
• One source says rubbing a slice or two on the bathroom mirror helps to prevent the ole fog up from the shower! Who knew? Haven’t tested that one yet, so if you do let me know if it really works.

Incorporate Cucumbers Into Your Diet
My favorite way to reap those health benefits is my old summer stand-by sandwich of cucumber, tomato and onion with mayo, salt and pepper. This recipe does the trick every time!

Also yummy is blending a cuke with some fresh tomato and garlic, a squeeze or two of lemon, some olive oil, pinch o’ salt and your favorite fresh herbs for a quick gazpacho-like cold soup.

Or keep it simple like we do at Judy Moon and Associates…add a few slices of cucumber and lemon to your water for a simple but refreshing boost!

Do you incorporate cucumbers into your daily routine? Lets share! Cheers!

Photo Credits // 1 Broadway Beauty // 2 The Healthy Foodie // 3 Future Executives  // 4 Lil Spa Room // 5 Babble // 6 Beauty Punk