Health Benefits of Cucumbers - By Dr. P.T. Ezhil Selvan

Cucumbers are not only the perfect summer food, they are also the best sources of potassium. Cucumbers contain antioxidants like vitamin B, A, C zea-xanthin and lutein. These compounds fight free radicals, which cause ageing and age-related diseases. They are also full of minerals like magnesium, potassium and silicon, which are good for both hair and skin. So if you want to look and feel great, include this miracle vegetable in your diet.

♦  Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin B and can boost one’s energy levels. So, the next time you need a pick-me-up, put down your mug of coffee and reach for a crunchy cucumber.

♦  Cucumbers are 95 per cent water, which helps keep the body hydrated and eliminate toxins. Since cucumbers are low in calories and high in water, it is an ideal snack for people who want to lose weight. Daily consumption of cucumbers can also be used to treat chronic constipation.

♦  Cucumbers are a good source of silica, which is known for joint health. 

♦  Cucumbers are also high in vitamins A, B and C as well as folate and vitamin D, which are needed for a healthy body, skin and hair.

♦  Cucumbers can also be used to treat high uric acid levels, by consuming equal parts of cucumber juice with carrot juice. 

♦  Cucumber juice can also be used to treat diabetic patients as they contain a hormone which is needed by the pancreas to produce insulin.

♦  Cucumbers also contain high levels of vitamin C and caffeic acid, which when consumed and applied on the skin can help get rid of wrinkles. The vitamin C present in cucumbers boosts collagen and elastin, which can give you a youthful complexion and the caffeic acid protects the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.