There are more than 6 varieties of Cucumber that can be found in different countries of the world. Some of the varieties include English cucumber (dark green), Armenian cucumber (dark green with few or no seeds), Japanese Cucumber (also dark green but very narrow), Kirby, lemon, and Persian cucumbers. All these varieties offer almost the same health benefits to the body....CONTINUE READING
In Nigeria, English cucumbers are mostly cultivated. It is usually dark green and ranges from small to big sizes. They are slightly tasty, especially when they are fresh. How often do you take this cucumber? If your answer is no, then you need to patiently read this article as it discloses an easy way to use cucumbers to cleanse and protect your heart.
According to a publication by MedicalNewsToday.com, cucumber has been shown to help cleanse and protect the cardiovascular system. The cardiovascular system is composed of the heart and interconnected blood vessels.
The fruit contains numerous nutrients which are super beneficial to the body. It is loaded with vitamins, fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, etc. It also contains cucurbitacin, another special compound that benefits the heart.
American Heart Association (AHA) confirmed that the rich amount of fiber found in Cucumber helps to manage blood cholesterol levels and protect the heart and blood vessels. A 142-gram cup of unpeeled cucumber contains 193 mg of potassium and 17 mg of magnesium. These two substances are electrolytes which help to remove excess fluid and toxins from the cardiovascular system. This relaxes the heart and blood vessels and normalizes blood pressure.
Also, cucurbitacins found in cucumber help to cleanse the cardiovascular system and prevent the development of atherosclerosis. This prevents plaques and fat from blocking the blood vessels around the heart. Thus, it ensures the free flow of blood around the entire part of the body. Cucumber also helps you stay hydrated. This also benefits the body in terms of maintaining efficient blood circulation.
How can you make use of Cucumber to achieve this benefit? The answer is very simple. Firstly, you need to constantly start consuming Cucumber. Eating one or two pieces of fresh, unpeeled cucumber daily is considered safe and effective
. Chewing cucumber is the easiest way to add it to your diet. Secondly, you can also make use of Cucumber in preparing fruit salad, stews, and other delicacies.
However, raw, fresh, and unpeeled cucumber is said to contain all its nutrients still intact. Therefore, you tend to gain more if you eat Cucumber raw. Alternatively, blending Cucumber into a juice is also another convenient way to get it into your system.