Great Cucumber Health Benefits Anyone Would Want to Know
The first benefit of cucumbers is that they are filled with vitamins. We all require a certain number of vitamins and nutrients every day to function normally. Surprisingly enough, a single cucumber can provide all the vitamins that the body requires for the day. Some of the vitamins that can be found in cucumbers include phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, potassium, iron, calcium, folic acid, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B2 (riboflavin, Vitamin B3 (niacin) and Vitamin B1 (thiamine).
If you are experiencing a slump in energy, don’t reach for that energy drink or go to get a cup of coffee, have some cucumber. The carbohydrates and vitamin B in the cucumber provides that natural, healthy energy boost that the body requires. For those women who are fighting to get rid of cellulite, cucumbers can help. Cucumbers contain phytochemicals which cause the outer layers of the skin to become firmer and the collagen to tighten. The cucumber simply has to be sliced and a piece rubbed on the affected area for a couple minutes. This process can be continued on a daily basis until the desired result is achieved. It can also be used to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
For those who tend to binge eat snacks in between meals, the cucumber can help to curb those cravings. Eating a cucumber can satiate the appetite until it is meal time and it is a healthier snack option in the long run. The water content and vitamins help to curb those hunger pangs. If you had a bit too much to drink and are suffering from headaches and the dreaded hangover you simply need to have a couple slices of cucumber before retiring to bed. Eating the cucumber replaces electrolytes, vitamin B and sugar that may have been lost while you were consuming all that alcohol. The cucumber will not only prevent a headache but will stop the hangover as it puts the body back in balance. Are you unduly stressed and need to find a way to get rid of that stress. All you have to do is place a cucumber in a pot of boiling water. The result is that the steam will contain properties that relax you. Of course, having a glass of cucumber juice would not hurt as the fiber, magnesium, and potassium in the cucumber helps to control blood pressure.
Other than helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and cellulite, the cucumber has other cosmetic benefits. Those who are troubled with dark circles under the eyes will find it extremely beneficial. One slice of cucumber placed on each eye helps to lighten those dark circles. Simply lay down close the eyes and place a slice on each eye. It is also very soothing for tired eyes. Last but by no means least, the cucumber helps to keep the breath fresh. Simply press a slice of cucumber to the roof of the mouth and hold it in place with your tongue for half a minute. The bacteria that cause bad breath will be destroyed by the phytochemicals present in the cucumber.
A bonus benefit is that it also helps with sunburn. Some thin slices placed on the area that is sunburnt will help to soothe the skin. The slices should be removed when they start to feel warm. It can be used on the neck and face which are delicate areas.
