Top 5 Health Benefits of Cucumber

Cucumber, or scientifically known as Cucumis sativus, is a member of gourd family, which includes squashes, melons and gourds. It is believed to be originated in the northern plains of the Indian subcontinent and is one of the most cultivated vegetable in the world.

Cucumber is also one of the healthiest foods you can eat because of its low calories and fat content. This vegetable contains many essential nutrients like vitamin A, B, C, & K, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. All of these nutrients are needed by the body to function properly and protects against diseases. The following are some excellent health benefits of cucumber.

1. Skin care
   Due to its high water content and rich in vitamins as well as minerals, such as, potassium, manganese, and silica, cucumber is the best ingredient for skin care. Eating cucumber is believed to smoothies and softens the skin. In addition, cucumber also has natural cooling effect, which can shrink your pores naturally.


2. Aids Weight loss
   Cucumber is a great weight loss food as it is extremely low in calories and loaded with a plenty of fiber that help in digestion.


3. Cures bad breath
   The photochemical in a cucumber can kill bacteria in your mouth which cause bad breath. Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds, this will help eliminate the bad breath.


4. Treat diabetes
   The cucumber juice has been found to be beneficial for treating diabetes as it contains a hormone which stimulates the insulin production. Drink a cup of cucumber juice or eat one raw cucumber a day to control your blood sugar levels.


5. Relieves gout and arthritis pain
   Cucumber contains a compound called silica which strengthens the connective tissue and promotes joint health, thereby help in relieving gout and arthritis pain.