Plain water may get a bit boring, and adding some flavorful ingredients can help improve the taste and encourage you to drink more. Cucumbers are one flavor option that enhances the taste of your beverage while also boosting the nutrition as well. The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods notes that cucumbers are made up primarily of water but pack a nutritional punch that also jazzes up your regular glass of water.
Encourages You to Drink More Water
Water is the healthiest beverage you can consume, but many people fall short of drinking enough for proper hydration. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that water is the most beneficial and nutritious drink and it contains all you need to replenish your fluid balance. If you struggle to consume enough water during the day, it may help if you add some flavor from sliced cucumbers. If your water tastes better, you may be willing to drink more of it throughout your day.
Provides Necessary Silica
Adding cucumber to your water will supply you with many important nutrients, including silica. According to The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods, silica is a trace mineral that you need for your connective tissues. The health of these tissues,which includes the muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bones, is essential. Cucumber is a good source of silica, and adding it to your water will supply you with a small amount.
Provides Vitamin C
Slicing some cucumber into your glass of water will add some vitamin C to your diet as well. Vitamin C plays an important role in increasing your immunity and helping to prevent infection. This vitamin is also considered an antioxidant that helps destroy free radicals, notes the Harvard School of Public Health, which may keep you healthy and prevent illness and disease. One cup of sliced cucumbers contains 3.8 mg of vitamin C.
Supplies Potassium
Another nutrient that sliced cucumbers provides in your glass of water is potassium. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, potassium encourages the proper function of your cells, muscles and heart. You also need potassium to regulate your heartbeat and your blood pressure. Potassium is present in fruits and vegetables, including cucumbers, and adding them to your water will help you get more in your diet. One cup of sliced cucumber will provide you with 162 mg of this beneficial mineral.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Water: How Much Should You Drink Everyday; April 2010
- Harvard School of Public Health; Healthy Beverage Guidelines
- "The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Michael T. Murray, Joseph Pizzorno and Lara Pizzorno; 2006
- USDA Niutrient Database; Nutrient Data Laboratory
- Harvard School of Public Health; Vitamin C
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Potassium; May 2009



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