Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a widely cultivated plant in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae family). It is a creeping vine that bears cucumiform fruits that are used as vegetables. There are three main varieties of cucumber: slicing, pickling, and seedless.
The cucumber is originally from South Asia but now grows on most continents. Different types of cucumber are traded on the global market. Much like tomato and squash, it is often perceived, prepared and eaten as a vegetable. Cucumber fruits are usually more than 90% water.
Cucumbers contain unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and much more. Below are some reasons why you should make cucumber part of your daily diet.
- Decrease Your Risk of Cancer
Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol), which may help to lower your risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
- Combat Inflammation
Cucumbers help reduce the inflammatory response in your body, and animal studies suggest that cucumber extract helps reduce unwanted inflammation.
Cucumbers contain numerous antioxidants, including the well-known vitamin C and beta-carotene. They also contain antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol, which provide additional benefits.
- Keeps Your Brain Protected
Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play an important role in brain health
- Gives you fresh Breath
Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid your mouth of odor-causing bacteria. According to the principles of Ayurveda, eating cucumbers may also help to release excess heat in your stomach, which is said to be a primary cause of bad breath.7
- Helps you manage Stress
Cucumbers contain multiple B vitamins, including vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7 (biotin). B vitamins are known to help ease feelings of anxiety and buffer some of the damaging effects of stress.