I am Madiha, nutritionist at The Kenko Life.
Cucumber is a widely loved vegetable known for its high water content and refreshing taste. These are long, lean, and green garden vegetables. Scientifically classified as Cucumis sativus, it belongs to the gourd family and is eaten raw in salad, Raita, or is added as a cooling ingredient in drinks. These are native in India and have slight melon-like taste or sometimes slightly bitter.
Nutritional value of cucumber
Cucumbers are low in calories but packed with a lot of nutrients.
- Water: About 95% of a cucumber is water, making it excellent for hydration.
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamins K, C and Vitamin B.
- Minerals: Provides potassium and magnesium for muscle and heart health.
- Antioxidants: Contains compounds like flavonoids, Tannins that helps fight oxidative stress.
Health Benefit
1. Promotes Hydration: Cucumbers have high water content that helps your body stay hydrated.
2. Helps in weight management: Cucumbers are low in calories and high in fibre which helps you feel full for a longer time.
3. Supports digestive health: It contains fibre which helps in digestion, improves bowel movement and prevents constipation.
4. Improves Skin: Antioxidants and water content present in them contributes to healthy and glowing skin.
Best ways to include cucumber in daily life.
- In salads : Add cucumber slices to salads for freshness and hydration.
- Cucumber water: Add cucumber in water or juices to make it a refreshing and hydrating drink.
- Smoothies: Blend cucumber salads with green or fruits.
4. Raita or dips: Add cucumber in Raita and dips to make it a cooling and refreshing side dish.
Cucumbers are a versatile hydrating and nutrient dense food that can be easily included into your diet. Enjoy cucumbers daily for a refreshing boost to your overall wellbeing.
