Most of us have heard the phrase “cool as a cucumber”, but just how cool are they? After reading this, I’m sure you’ll agree that they are very cool, in more ways than one.
Many people think that cucumbers are a vegetable, but botanically, they are actually a fruit. This is because they contain seeds and grow from a flowering plant. They are a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and are related to pumpkins, squash, and watermelons.
These awesome superfoods are believed to have originated in the northern plains of India over 3,000 years ago. As time passed, they were being cultivated in different lands. As early as 2000 BCE, they could be found in Mesopotamia and then eventually in Europe. They were not only valued as food but for their medicinal properties as well. Today, they are found in many places around the world.
Now let’s learn why we can say they are cool.
The inside of a cucumber can be up to 20 degrees cooler than the outside air. This is probably where the phrase “cool as a cucumber” comes from. We can liken it to a person in a high-stress situation who manages to stay calm on the inside. For example, we could say, “Despite the chaos going on around him, he was as cool as a cucumber.” So basically, the person is cool on the inside, just like a cucumber.
Now let’s discuss three health benefits of this incredible food.
Cucumbers Are Great For Hydration
Because of their high water content, cucumbers are great for hydration. They are 96% water and hold the record for the highest water content of any solid food. Furthermore, the water they contain hydrates you twice as much as regular water of the same volume. It also cleanses your body as it passes through your system.
Great For Weight Loss
One cup of cucumber contains only 16 calories and zero grams of fat. This makes them a great addition to your diet if you are trying to lose weight, or are simply trying to maintain your weight. The most common way people eat them is by putting them on salads, but there are many other ways to consume them. Not only are they delicious on sandwiches, but you can also make dressings and dips out of them. You can even add them to your morning smoothie. Or, just add salt and vinegar to them for a tasty snack.
Highly Nutritious
Cucumbers are powerhouses when it comes to nutrition. The skin of this incredible fruit is full of beta-carotene. This is a type of antioxidant that your body converts to vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for keeping your skin and eyes healthy. It is also important for building and maintaining healthy teeth. They also contain other antioxidants that help your body remove free radicals. Reducing these free radicals helps lower your risk of conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. They are also high in potassium, which helps your muscles contract and your kidneys function better.
This superfood is also rich in Vitamin K. Your body needs vitamin K for several reasons. One is that it plays a key role in helping your blood to clot. Another is that it keeps your bones healthy by producing the protein osteocalcin. This protein is vital for keeping your bone tissue healthy.
Other important things they contain are vitamins B and C, as well as copper, phosphorus, and magnesium.
So, as you can see, cucumbers are pretty cool! Remember this the next time you’re in the produce aisle. Grab a few and start reaping all the health benefits they provide.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is to simply provide information. It does not intend to replace medical advice from a professional.
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