Although cucumber is commonly referred to as a vegetable it is actually a fruit and belongs to the same plant family as pumpkin, watermelon, and squash. Like watermelon, cucumber has high water content and is a great choice for keeping yourself hydrated. It is a good source of many beneficial nutrients, antioxidants, and plant compounds that may help prevent and treat certain conditions. Here are some health benefits of cucumber according to top dietitians in Pakistan.
Table of Contents
1- Keeps You Hydrated
With 95.2 percent water content, cucumbers are very hydrating and a 5-ounce serving is enough to fulfill 26 percent of your daily water requirement.
2- Good Source Of Nutrients:
Even though cucumbers are low in calories, they are a good source of many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, potassium and manganese. Try to eat cucumbers without taking off the peel as it is a good source of fibre and contains certain vitamins and minerals.
3- Maintains Brain Health:
The anti-inflammatory flavonol fisetin found in cucumber is highly anti-inflammatory and it can protect your brain. Fisetin doesn’t only protect your nerve cells from decline associated with aging and improves your memory, it may also prevent learning impairments and progressive memory in patients suffering from the Alzheimer’s disease.
4- Fight Inflammation:
Cucumbers have a calming effect on the inflammatory response in your body and may even help reduce unwanted inflammation by impeding the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as cyclooxygenase
5- High In Antioxidants:
Antioxidants fight free radicals to prevent oxidation, thereby safeguarding you against various chronic diseases. Studies have linked oxidative stress induced by free radicals to the lung, heart and autoimmune diseases. Intake of fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers, that are high in antioxidants can curtail the risk of these conditions. Cucumbers also contain tannins and flavonoids, which are both very effective at fighting free radicals.
6- Stress Buster:
Cucumbers are a good source of multiple B vitamins such as vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7, all of which have been shown to help with stress and anxiety management.
7- Anti-aging Effects:
Cucumbers are a huge hit in skin care because of their anti-aging properties that are effective at keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay.
8- Help With Weight Loss:
Since cucumbers are low in calories, you can swap them for unhealthy snacks to promote weight loss. They are also a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and appetizers that you can consume in place of higher calorie alternatives. Moreover, the water content of cucumber also helps with weight loss. consumption of foods high in water and low in calories result in a considerable decrease in body weight.
A dietitian can help chart a nutritious diet plan for you that is in line with your health and fitness goals. You can find and book an appointment with top Dietitians in Karachi, Peshawar and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your health concerns.
