Nutritional Facts Of Cucumber
May 14, 2020 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in Nutrition Facts
Cucumber is a widely cultivated plant belongs to cucurbitaceae family. It is a creeping plant. This article tells you about the amazing nutritional facts of cucumber.
Cucumbers can be eaten fresh or pickled. They can be enjoyed as a low-calorie snack or used to add flavor to many dishes. Cucumbers have mild and refreshing taste and it contains high water content.
There are three main varieties of cucumber; slicing, pickling, and seedless. Within these varieties, several cultivars have been created. Cucumbers can be used to prepare several dishes, salads. It is used as a beauty product, and in ancient times it is also used for medicinal purpose.
Did You Know?
Cucumber peel contains more nutrients. Maximum, cucumbers should be eaten unpeeled. Peeling them reduces the amount of fiber, as well as certain vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Facts
Cucumbers contains various nutrients. They are low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and sodium. But contains several important vitamins and minerals.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants blocks oxidation- a chemical reaction that forms highly reactive atoms with unpaired electrons known as free radicals. Antioxidants help remove substances from the body known as free radicals. The accumulation of these harmful free radicals can lead to several types of chronic illness. Fruits and vegetables, including cucumbers, are especially rich in beneficial antioxidants that may reduce the risk of cancer and heart, lung and autoimmune disease.
Water Content
Cucumber contains high water content, it acts as an hydrater when it enters into body. Especially this helps in summer season, it keeps you hydrated. They can help prevent dehydration in hot weather or after a workout. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy intestine, preventing constipation, avoiding kidney stones etc.
Cucumbers are low in calories, high in water and can be used as a low-calorie topping for many dishes. All of these may aid in weight loss.
Fiber
Cucumber contains high fiber and it keeps you fuller for longtime. Fiber helps to get rid of digestive problems, it maintains gut health and reduces constipation. This also aids in weight loss.
Vitamins And Minerals
Cucumbers contain vitamin C, beta-carotene and manganese, as well as flavonoids, triterpenes and lignans that have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C is well known for its immune system benefits, and beta-carotene has been shown to be beneficial for vision.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K helps with blood clotting, and it may support bone health. It improves calcium absorption. Calcium and vitamin K together, these nutrients can contribute to good bone health.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is also important for bone health.