Did you know cucumbers come from the same family as melons?! The Cucurbitaceae family includes squash, pumpkins, zucchini and melons.
Hydration
Did you know cucumbers are 95% water?! Their high water content is important in helping to control body temperature, metabolism, heart and blood pressure. Water also is necessary to flush waste products out of our body.
Vitamin K
The humble cucumber is a delicious source of Vitamin K. which helps to keep bones strong and healthy. Vitamin K is integral in preventing bone deterioration and osteoporosis later in life. It’s important to be mindful about getting enough of this now as the adverse effects of not getting enough Vitamin K only come into play later in life when it’s already too late.
Antioxidants
Cucumbers contain lignans, a very powerful antioxidant with disease fighting properties. Lignan has been shown to play a role in keeping our immune systems healthy and has been linked with a reduced risk of many cancers and other chronic diseases.
Low in energy (kilojoules)
Not surprisingly (due to their high water content), cucumbers are naturally low in energy (kilojoules/calories). Bulking out meals with vegetables like cucumbers is important for weight management and to prevent obesity, a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
- Try our homemade quinoa sushi recipe with cucumber
- Added to plain yoghurt with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dash of garlic :)
- Added to summer salads!
