Nutritional Properties In Cucumbers

Cucumbers are one of the most widely cultivated foods in the world -- China produces the largest quantity of cucumbers, followed by Turkey, Iran and the United States. The vegetables contain a range of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that have benefits to human health. Many different types of cuisine use cucumbers, which can be cooked in a variety of ways.

Nutrients in Cucumbers

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1/2 cup of sliced cucumbers contains about 10 calories. Cucumbers have vitamins A and C, which are both powerful antioxidants. Cucumbers also contain the minerals potassium, manganese, folate and magnesium as well as the nutritional compounds molybdenum, tryptophan and dietary fiber.

Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are plant-based compounds that can be beneficial to human health. Cucumbers have multiple different phytonutrients, classified into three categories: flavonoids, lignans and triterpenes. Flavonoids are biological compounds with antioxidant properties, whereas lignans and triterpenes are precursors to hormones in the human body and can increase natural hormone production. Lignans, for example, are considered phytoestrogens because of their ability to mimic the hormone estrogen.

Antioxidant Properties

The antioxidants contained within cucumbers have been investigated for their ability to boost the immune system. Vitamins A and C, as well as the mineral manganese, all have antioxidant benefits, according to the book "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport." Flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin, luteolin and kaempferol, also possess antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help your body fight off disease and inflammation, and can protect your cells from oxidative damage caused by environmental toxins.

Anti-Cancer Properties

According to a study published in the March 2010 "Scientific World Journal," a nutrient in cucumbers might have cancer-fighting properties. Researchers found that cucurbitacins, types of triterpenes unique to cucumbers, can block the cell signaling pathways that cause cancer to spread. Another study published in July 2009 by the journal "Cancer Research" found that cucurbitacin has protective effects against human pancreatic cancer cells. More research is necessary to better understand the role that nutrients in cucumbers play in cancer prevention and treatment.