Cucumbers are one of Americas commonly known vegetables that’s really a fruit (why do I have déjà vu)? Never the less we still love, love, love our pickles on the side and relish on our hot dog or in your tuna; and we all have the cucumber to thank for that. So, today we won’t debate what came first the cucumber or the pickle, we’re just going to have an easy read on why cucumbers are GREAT!
Now let’s learn something we didn’t know about the cucumbers: Did you know the cucumber originated in India, it has been cultivated for at least 3,000 years and was probably introduced to other parts of Europe by the Greeks or Romans. Records of cucumber cultivation appear in France in the 9th century, England in the 14th century, and in North America by the mid-16th century. Talk about food history!!!
Why start eating cucumber?
Well, if you are all excited about the cucumbers, let me tell you there is 95 % of water in a cucumber, can someone say zero calories? It’s not zero, but it’s pretty low. Along with those low calories, we also add K to its nutrient profile. Studies have proven that the daily consumption of cucumbers facilitates lowering the risk of obesity, heart disease and even CANCER! Now, this next line is for my nerdy readers that love big words. Cucumbers are known to contain lignans such as lariciresinol, secoisolariciresinol, and pinoresinol. These three elements are associated with reducing the risk of ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, uterine cancer, and breast cancer. Research confirms that cancer cells cannot live in an alkaline environment and this is why a cucumber diet is recommended. Cucumber alkalizes food by correcting its acid imbalances, therefore, ensuring an alkaline environment. Cucumber also contains microelements such as cucurbitacins which blocks cancer cells from developing and even hindering their survival. How ROCKSTAR is THAT!?!?! At this point, I could drop the mic and walk off the stage, but the cucumber wants an encore.
Cucumbers are high in magnesium, potassium, and fiber which work effectively in regulating our blood pressure. They also contain a juice hormone which is required by pancreases cells in producing insulin that is beneficial for diabetic patients. Research has shown that cucumbers have compound elements known as sterols which also reduce the levels of cholesterol. These cucumber elements are beneficial to our health, and that is why we all should try including cucumbers in our daily diet.
The next time you’re out shopping for food, remember to buy a handful of Cucumbers and yes; Congrats! You just bought yourself a fresh fruit which will take your health to another level.
Try these COOL cucumber recipes!
Poco Pickles
As I mentioned earlier, who doesn’t LOVE a pickle (or 5) on the side? Try this super easy recipe for homemade pickles. You’ll probably never go back to store bought!
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Cucumber Sushi Roll
Sushi. It’s trendy, it’s hip, it’s cool, it’s a buzz-wordy food no matter how you look at it. Step out of your culinary comfort zone, and get rolling (some sushi)!
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Refreshing Mini Cucumber and Honeydew Salad
When all else fails salad is generally the go-to for cucumber dishes. Toss in some diced honeydew melon for a fruity kick and you’ll never fail to impress with this one!
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