Summary of 8 Science-Backed Benefits of Eating Cucumbers:
Eating cucumbers can offer many health benefits. Cucumbers are nutrient-dense and low in calories, containing vitamin K for strong bones and phytochemicals that reduce bacteria in the mouth, helping with bad breath. They also have a low glycemic index, making them beneficial for lowering blood sugar levels in those with diabetes, and they contain high levels of water, helping with hydration. Cucumbers are also suitable for weight loss, relieving constipation, and reducing bloating due to their high potassium content.
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8 Surprising Science-Backed Benefits of Eating Cucumbers
Cucumbers may be a common addition to your favorite salad or tasty dipping sauces, but did you know there are numerous science-backed reasons why eating cucumbers can help optimize your health? Here are eight benefits you may not know about, along with the research that supports them.
1. They help build strong bones
According to research, cucumbers are loaded with vitamin K, which plays a significant role in building and maintaining strong and healthy bones. A single cuke contains about 40% of your daily value (DV) of vitamin K.
2. They can freshen your breath
Cucumbers are known for their high water content, and this can help hydrate your mouth and produce more saliva, which can wash away bacteria and prevent bad breath. Cucumbers also contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath.
3. They may help lower blood pressure
A 2017 study showed that drinking cucumber juice twice a day for seven days had a “significant effect” on lowering blood pressure in older adults with high blood pressure. Despite the small sample size, the findings were promising and suggested that incorporating more cucumbers into your diet could be beneficial.
4. They have a low glycemic index
Foods with a low glycemic index can help reduce insulin resistance and the risk of type 2 diabetes. Cucumbers have a glycemic index of 15, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to avoid highly processed carbs, sugary drinks, and red meat.
5. They can help hydrate your body
Cucumbers are more than 95% water, making them an excellent source of hydration. Snack on some cucumber slices or add them to your favorite drink or smoothie for an extra hydration boost.
6. They promote weight loss
Cucumbers are incredibly low in calories, with only 16 calories in one cup, making them ideal for weight loss. Foods with low energy densities are also linked to weight loss, and cucumbers are very filling due to their high water content.
7. They can help relieve constipation
Cucumbers contain seeds that help prevent constipation, according to a study published in Fitoterapia. They also have a “cooling effect” on the body, which can help relieve discomfort associated with constipation.
8. They reduce bloating and inflammation
Cucumbers are rich in nutrients that help eliminate water retention and inflammation, making them a great food to prevent bloating. Their high potassium content can help decrease water retention, and the fiber in their skin can help keep things moving and promote bowel regularity.
Whether you’re looking to improve your bone health, freshen your breath, or stay hydrated, cucumbers are a delicious and healthy food that can provide numerous benefits for your body. So next time you’re at the store, grab a few cucumbers and enjoy all the surprising ways they can improve your health.
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