A healthy diet definitely contains cucumbers. A lot of good nutrition is packed into that simple package. I’m guessing that there are many more health benefits than you might realize.
Some of The Health Benefits of Cucumber:
- Cucumbers are low in calories and are a perfect nutritional selection on the CardioMender, MD Weight Loss Program. And they are unlimited; eat as many as you want!
- They are high in fiber, aiding in GI (gut) digestive health. The soluble fiber helps you feel full longer, which aids in weight loss.
- Cucumbers are mostly water and help with hydration. Most Americans are dehydrated. Good hydration is critical when on a caloric restricting program. Adequate hydration helps reduce the likelihood of forming kidney stones, gallstones and helps reduce the chance of a gout attack.
- Cucumbers, like many fruits and vegetables, contain antioxidants which reduce free radicals and are believed to decrease ‘wear and tear’ of our body’s cells and help maintain optimal health.
- Fisetin, a flavonoid (antioxidant) found in cucumbers, has anti-inflammatory properties and may ‘help preserve brain function and may have a role in Alzheimer’s Disease prevention’1
- Cucumbers contain lignans, a polyphenol antioxidant; Experimental studies have shown anti-carcinogenic effects of lignans in certain forms of cancer2 i.e. breast, ovarian, uterine and prostate.
- Cucumbers are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, thus heart healthy.3
- Cucumbers are a very good source of potassium and are low in sodium3. Increasing potassium and reducing sodium intake is an integral part of the DASH diet which has been shown to reduce blood pressure.
- Cucumbers are rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin K and are a good source of Vit A, magnesium, phosphorus, mangenese and other important nutrients.
With all these potential benefits, consider making cucumbers a frequent choice when implementing a healthy diet. They are perfect as a quick fix snack! Try one of our cucumber recipes, links just below.
Remember, cucumbers are unlimited on our plan. You’ve Got to Live It!
Dr. Young’s Marinated Cucumbers
Dr. Young’s Cream of Cucumber Soup
Footnotes:
1. https://www.salk.edu/news-release/natural-plant-compound-prevents-alzheimers-disease-in-mice/
2. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci. 2007;44(5-6):483-525. Lignans and human health. Adlercreutz
3. http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2439/2#ixzz4KngHXScI
