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Cucumbers: Health Facts + 20 Recipes
Cucumbers are abundantly available during their peak season, which is generally May to August. And there’s nothing quite like the flavor of locally grown, vine-ripened, refreshing produce such as cucumbers in the summer!
If you don’t have a fruit and veggie garden at home, no worries. Visit the farmer’s stands and markets to support your local economy and hopefully save yourself some money while getting the freshest veggies in town.
Cucumbers are technically fruits but are typically grouped and grown with veggies due to their use.
They have SEVERAL health benefits, most of which are especially important in the summer. Some of these benefits are:
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Hydrating
Because cucumbers are composed of about 96% water, they help to promote sufficient hydration. It’s vital to drink enough water and stay hydrated year-round, particularly while you’re sweating more in the heat of summer!
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Skin Protection
The vitamin C, vitamin A, water, antioxidants, and other nutrients in cucumbers can help protect our skin from sun damage, cool the skin, reduce irritation and swelling, and boost collagen and elastin, which helps to keep skin looking vibrant. Many people will even apply cucumbers topically on the skin to reduce puffiness in the eyes and soothe sunburns.
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Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory
Cucumbers have natural anti-inflammatory benefits and help to prevent water retention. They’re also rich in antioxidants that may reduce the risk of several chronic diseases.
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Promote Bone Health
According to the FDC, a single cucumber with the peel still on supplies over 41% of the recommended daily target for vitamin K, which is key for bone health. Low levels of vitamin K are linked to osteoporosis and increased fracture risk.
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May Boost Heart Health
Cucumbers contain flavonoids, which help protect against heart disease by decreasing LDL cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol that increases risk of stroke or heart disease.
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Can Aid in Weight Management