What are the benefits of eating cucumber and what are the harms?

Cucumbers have properties that benefit the body in different ways, making it a really good fruit, bringing benefits to the body such as the following…

HELP YOUR SKIN

It has potential antidiabetic, lipid-lowering and antioxidant activity. Cucumber has a cleansing action within the body by removing accumulated pockets of old waste materials and chemical toxins. Fresh fruit juice is used to nourish the skin. Gives a soothing effect against skin irritations and reduces swelling.  Source: Phytochemical and therapeutic potential of cucumber. 

HYDRATION BENEFITS

The cucumber is 95% water ( Study that mentions it), making it exceptionally effective at promoting hydration. They also act well as an energy booster, so they can be used as a mid-afternoon energy lift instead of a second coffee.

THEY ARE FULL OF VITAMINS

Cucumber is a carbohydrate source providing only ~16 kcal per fruit. Although they have so little caloric value, they provide many micronutrients to the body, such as vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and folic acid.

They are also packed with phytochemicals, compounds created by plants in a defense system, lignans that are linked to many health benefits, such as the prevention of estrogen-related diseases, including cancer.

CANCER

Cucumbers contain two phytonutrient compounds ssociated with anticancer benefits: lignans and cucurbitacins . In recent years, pharmaceutical companies have been paying special attention to cucurbitacins, hoping to use them in new cancer drugs.

STRONGER BONES

Cucumber is an excellent source of vitamin K , an essential nutrient for bones. This vitamin increases calcium absorption. Their deficit makes them more fragile and susceptible to fractures.

SOME BENEFITS WITHOUT A SCIENTIFIC BASE FOUND ARE:

• Excess or fluid retention (due to the high content of potassium and very low in sodium).
• Eliminate styes. Applying cucumber topically.
• Regulate blood sugar.
• Protect the stomach.
• Relieve tired, red or puffy eyes (apply a few slices on the eyelids for a few minutes).
• Expel intestinal parasites such as tapeworms.
• Relieve tired feet and legs.
• During the hot season its consumption is very beneficial, as it is very moisturizing and refreshing.
• If you have gout or uric acid, cucumber helps to improve it.
• Reduces dark circles and bags under the eyes.
• Cleanses the intestine.
• Applied locally cares for the skin. You can apply it alone or include it in the preparation of masks.
• Strengthens weak hair and nails.
• It is beneficial for people with high blood pressure or hypertension.
• Cucumber is especially recommended for overweight and obese people, since it is very low in calories (13 kcal per 100 grams) and the fat content is practically zero.
• Contributes to the improvement of cases of arthritis.
• It is used to remove skin blemishes.
• Fight constipation.
• It is an excellent home and natural remedy to improve skin burns.
• Helps fight cystitis.
• It has an anti-wrinkle effect (also applied locally).
• Fight oily skin and pimples (applying its juice externally).
• Due to its folic acid content, it contributes to the proper development of the fetus during pregnancy. This vitamin is also essential for the immune system.

DISADVANTAGES OF EATING CUCUMBERS

• Cucumber is highly diuretic, this is because about 95% is water ( Study that mentions it). By increasing diuresis, it causes mineral salts to be eliminated in greater quantities, which can cause a feeling of weakness, muscle fatigue or decreases in sexual appetite.

Diuretic food means that… they help eliminate excess water from the body through urine  , some of them are watermelon and celery from Spain, for example. These fruits and vegetables help control high blood pressure and reduce fluid retention in the body.

• Consumption can cause indigestion problems, gas and bloating in some people. In addition, the fiber it contains favors and stimulates the digestive processes, which is why it is not recommended for people with stomach problems or diarrhea.
• Large amounts of potassium (hypercalcemia) can damage the heart and overwork the kidneys.
• There are toxins in cucumber (triterpenoids and tetracyclic cucurbitacins) that give it a bitter taste and, if taken in excess, can produce lethal results.
• Many people also report indigestion, gas, and bloating problems after eating cucumbers. Cucurbitacin is also responsible for this effect and mainly affects those who already have digestive problems.
• If you suffer from allergies to melon, banana, sunflower seeds, chamomile and pollen, you may also have allergic rejection to cucumber.
• People who have allergies to milk should pay special attention regarding the consumption of cucumbers. Some farmers pass a wax over the fruit in order to protect them from pests. This wax contains casein, a milk protein.

Disclaimer: As with any meal, moderation is key. Too much cucumber can provide too much vitamin C and K. Too much vitamin C can lead to the spread of free radicals, which can put you at risk for acne, premature aging, and chronic disease. Too much vitamin K can affect the way your blood clots.