Cucumber is commonly thought to be a vegetable, but is actually a fruit. It is highly abundant in beneficial nutrients, as well as certain plant compounds and antioxidants that may help treat and even prevent some conditions.

Studies have suggested that there are only about 16 calories in a cup of cucumber with its peel ( and 15 without). One can get about 4% of your daily potassium, 3% of your daily fiber and 4% of your daily vitamin C. They also to have small amounts of vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, manganese and vitamin A.

It also contain a good amount of water and soluble fiber, hence they are ideal for helping hydration as well as weight loss.

Here we have gathered a list of the top health benefits of eating cucumber:

1. High in nutrients

They are low in calories but abundant with many important vitamins and minerals, have high water content. Facts show that cucumbers are made up of about 96% water.

Eating cucumbers unpeeled helps you maximize their nutrient content. If they are eaten peeled, there is a reduction in the amount of fiber, as well as certain vitamins and minerals in them.

2. Helps hydration

Water is very crucial and helps one’s body to function properly, even play other numerous important roles.

In a human body, water is involved in the processes such as temperature regulation, the transportation of waste products and nutrients. Hence, proper hydration can impact everything ranging from physical performance to metabolism.

Although one may meet the majority of one’s fluid needs by drinking water or other liquids, some individuals can get as much as 40% of their total water intake from food from fruits and vegetables.

See Also: The 7 Amazing Health Benefits Of Carrot

So since cucumbers are abundant with water to about 96%, they are especially handy when it comes to increasing hydration and they can help one meet daily fluid needs.

3. May aid weight loss

Consider these facts; each one-cup ( about 104-gram) serving contains just 16 calories, while a wholesome 11-ounce (about 300-gram) cucumber contains only 45 calories.

This is a good indication that one may consume plenty of cucumbers without accumulating the extra calories that lead to weight gain.

Cucumbers may be added to bring about freshness and flavor to salads, sandwiches and side dishes and so may be used as a replacement for other higher calorie alternatives.

4. It can aid detoxification

If you are looking to ease off the bloated look around your stomach, the body needs to continuously flush out toxins. So, the cucumber seeds act as diuretic which help pass urine and flush out excess water and toxins. This can be handy in helping one reduce bloating and tighten the  stomach muscles.

5. Easy to Add to Your Diet

Cucumbers are often enjoyed fresh or introduced in everything ranging from salads to sandwiches.

A lot of people enjoy eating itas raw as a low-calorie snack or can be added to hummus, olive oil, salt or salad dressing to have a bit more flavor.

See below a few recipes to help add cucumbers into your diet:

• Quick Pickled
• Thai Salad
• Baked Cucumber Chips
• Strawberry, Lime, Cucumber and Mint-Infused Water
• Cucumber Goat Cheese Grilled Cheese
• Cucumber and Mint Sorbet

6. Cucumber has less amount sugar

In any form, sugar tends to hike the risk of obesity, which is why it is generally suggested that one should avoid it as much as. Studies has proved that cucumber has negligible amount of sugar that will help you lose weight effectively.

7. Cucumber reduces constipation

Indigestion and constipation can result to bloating up of the stomach. But fortunately, cucumber can be handy in reducing the effects; thanks to the fiber and water content of cucumber. A diet abundant in it will improve a clean gut that’s free from constipation and indigestion.