Cucumber
Not many people eat it, but that is because they are ignorant of its numerous health benefit. Call it the wonder fruit, and one will not be far from it. Truly, Cucumber which belongs to the same plant family as squash, pumpkin, and watermelon, can help to avoid nutrient deficiencies that are widespread. Like watermelon, cucumber is made up of mostly 95 per cent water, which means eating them on a hot summer day can help one stay hydrated. That is not all. With its vitamins K, B and C content, together with copper, potassium, and manganese, Cucumber also contains unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce ones risk of chronic diseases.
It has been noted that Cucumber possesses an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin which play an important role in brain health. In addition to improving memory and protecting nerve cells from age-related decline, fisetin has been found to prevent progressive memory and learning impairments in mice with Alzheimer’s disease. Cucumber contains polyphenols called lignans pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol, which may help to lower the risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers. They also contain phytonutrients called cucurbitacins, which also have anti-cancer properties.
Studies has also shown that Cucumber extract may help reduce unwanted inflammation in part, by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes including cyclo-oxygenase 2, or COX-2. Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid the mouth of odor-causing bacteria. In addition, the skin of a Cucumber contains insoluble fiber, which helps stool to move through the digestive tract more quickly for healthy elimination. Moreso, the soluble fiber in cucumber dissolves into a gel-like texture in the gut, helping to slow down digestion.
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