Eat Cucumber Everyday!

The title may sound a little radical at first… everyday!? Well after you read on, and learn some of the amazing properties of this alkaline food, you will understand why I chose that title, and why you should eat more cucumbers, everyday.

Even though in some places, cucumbers are only used to make pickles, let’s forget about those for now, and think of the raw produce. The reason for this may be obvios for some of you, but let me state it. When cucumbers are pickled, most of its nutrients are lost, and it becomes an acidic food, loosing all of its alkalizing properties. So stay away from pickles, and embrace the real thing!

Cucumbers are type of melon and some of you may not know this, but they come from the same family, the gourd family, as watermelon, pumpkin, zucchini and other squash and melons. They are very hydrating, as 96% of a cucumber is water. Now it is not just any water, it is naturally distilled water, very alkalizing.

Talking about their nutritional value, cucumbers are rich in vitamin C and A, folate, manganese, molybdenum, potassium, silica, sulfur, vitamin B complex, sodium, calcium, phosphorus and chlorine. Now, keep in mind that a lot of these nutrients are in the peel, so you should eat them unpeeled. Now, as with any fruit or vegetable whose peel you eat, it is advisable to buy organic.

We have talked about the alkalizing powers of cucumbers in other articles for a good reason, they are great for you! When trying to maintain an alkaline diet, cucumbers should be a standard in your menu. They help regulate the pH in your blood, as well as your blood pressure, thanks to their potassium content.

They are rich in folate, which is particularly important during pregnancy as it helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the unborn baby. Folate has also been associated with a reduced the risk of heart disease because it helps lower the levels of homocysteine.

Silica is a mineral present in cucumber that contributes to the proper construction of connective tissues in our body. It is very good for the health of your bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons. It is also a fantastic ally for having healthy nails, hair and skin.

Cucumber is also a natural diuretic, it works as a cleanser, facilitating disposal of waste through urination. It also helps in dissolving those nasty kidney stones. Cucumbers cleanse and alkalize, and for this reason, they have been  used for the treatment of eczema, and gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Alkaline foods in general are very good in fighting inflammation. But cucumbers specifically helps counter act uric acids that cause inflammation in the joints.  When we eat cucumber, it cleanses the joints, removing the uric acid, and alleviating pain. Thanks to this property, it has been said to help with conditions like arthritis, asthma, and gout.

Cucumber contain caffeic acid, which helps prevent water retention in your body. When applied topically, it also helps reduce puffy and swollen eyes.

Cucumbers are a great alternative for anyone trying to lose a weight. A medium size cucumber has only forty-two calories, yet it is quite filling due to its high fiber content. Not only are they a low calorie food, but they help you get rid of toxins, accumulated fat cells, and retained water.

Perfect for the summer, this refreshing food should be part of your next shopping list. Enjoy!