These common salad enhancers are hardly bright and colorful like some of their vegetable counterparts. Their mild taste doesn’t make them the most irresistible to most, but nevertheless, cucumbers provide multiple benefits due to their vitamin, mineral, electrolyte, and phyto-nutrients and can be a refreshing treat.

For those looking to lose weight, cucumbers provide various features to assist in this endeavor and therefore make an ideal diet food. The first most obvious is the low calorie feature. Cucumbers contain only 70 calories per 100 grams, or about 3 ounces. To visualize how little they contain, if a cup is filled half way with sliced and peeled cucumbers, it will contain about 8 calories. Cucumbers also contain an enzyme which helps break down proteins and aide in digestion.  In addition, their healthy fibers can assist with bowel health. Finally, they contain no cholesterol or unhealthy fats.

From a general health perspective, cucumber juice has alkaline features which neutralize acidity in the body and normalize blood pH. Their sodium content helps normalize blood pressure. In addition, cucumbers are natural diuretics which promote urinary tract health and help dissolve kidney stones.

Cucumbers can benefit the hair, skin, tissues, joints, and bones.

Cucumbers may promote the growth of hair due to the silicon and sulfur they contain. Anti-oxidants can provide for a more youthful glow and provide anti-aging benefits as well. For skin conditions like psoriasis, cucumbers can be used as a topical treatment. Cucumbers, because of the silica they contain, can assist to maintain healthy connective tissues. The vitamins and minerals in cucumbers have been shown to reduce the joint soreness and pain associated with uric acid. Due to their vitamin K content, they can strengthen bones as well.

Cucumbers also help hydrate the cells, lower bloating, and overall can increase your energy levels.

The dilemma for many, might be how to eat these. Personally I like them in cucumber and onion salads. Or simple sliced cucumbers can be good. In either case, I like to top them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar with a little salt and pepper to taste. Just olive oil works also. For those who are not lactose intolerant, a blend of sour cream, cucumbers, and onions might fit the bill. Another suggestion is the use of seasoned rice vinegar.

Although cucumbers are not the most apparent and are rather bland compared to other foods, due to their high nutritional content when consumed will provide great benefits. So, have a cucumber feast ! Your body will thank you for it.

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