Photo by Markus Winkler

While most think of cucumbers as a vegetable, cucumbers are actually a fruit in the watermelon family of Cucurbitaceae. Cucumbers have a long and cylindrical shape. Cucumbers originated in India and have been cultivated for over 3000 years and spread to other parts of the world through trade and exploration. They come in different sizes and there are about a 100 types in the world.

June marks National Cucumber Month and June 14th National Cucumber Day. They are a great choice for the hot summer months and have health benefits.

Hydration

• Cucumbers are 96% water so keep your body and cells hydrated

Nutrients

• Provides fiber(gut healthy), Vitamin K(helps bone health), Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium(helps regulate blood pressure and muscle contraction), and chlorophyll(phytonutrient)

Antioxidants

• Contains several types of antioxidants, including cucurbitacins, beta-carotene, fisetin

Can help with Weight loss

• Low calorie food-about half a cup serving is 8 calories
• The high water content helps you feel fuller longer

Blood sugar friendly

• has a low glycemic Index
• low in calories and carbohydrates and high in fiber and water so does not tend to increase blood sugar level

Skin benefits

• Eating cucumbers provides nourishing vitamins for your skin
• Topical application can can reduce dark, puffy circles, prevent premature aging, soothe irritation, aid acne prone skin

To maximize the nutrients you get from cucumbers, eat them unpeeled. There are many ways to enjoy cucumbers. Add them to salads, smoothies, sandwiches, eat them raw or with a dip, or add to a glass of water.