The Many Sides of Cucumbers

Cucumbers add a nice crunch to any salad.  I love the dark green color, and it adds a  refreshing flavor to plain water.  Often salons and spas offer this little treat to customers while they wait.  This lovely vegetable has many wonderful nutritional values that I did not know about.

The outside or flesh of a cucumber is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid, plus minerals such as magnesium, silica, molybdenum, and potassium.  Silica is a wonderful mineral that strengthens connective tissues.  For all of those concerned about aging beautifully, healthy connective tissue includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone.  These tissues help us with our ability to move.  Silica also helps to improve the complexion and health of the skin.  The ascorbic acid and caffeic reduce swelling and prevent water retention.  These elements help with inflammation in the body which is one reason many people use cucumbers on sunburns, dermatitis, and swollen eyes.  Also, studies have shown that people who add foods high in potassium, magnesium and fiber to their diets can lower their high blood pressure to healthier levels.

Cucumbers are cool and refreshing both inside and out.  The value this little vegetable adds to our health makes it a great addition to water or salad any day of the week. And ladies, this little marvel will help us prevent water retention.  There is nothing worse in my own personal book than water weight.  I guess if you are looking for a beauty secret that works inside and out then you have found it.