Cucumbers, a member of the squash family, contain essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that provide a number of health benefits. The green vegetable is often used in salads, culinary dishes, pickles and beauty treatments. The cooling quality of a cucumber is due to the water content of the vegetable. Cucumbers come in several varieties, including Persian, pickling and English cucumbers.
Macronutrients
According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 cup of sliced cucumbers contains 20 calories. The fat-free vegetable has 4 g of carbohydrates and 2 g of sugar. A whole 8-inch cucumber contains just 45 calories, 2 g of protein and 11 g of carbohydrates.
Vitamins
One cup of sliced cucumbers contains 4 percent of the recommended daily amount, or RDA, of vitamin A and 10 percent of the RDA of vitamin C. Vitamin A helps maintain eyesight, while vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system. Other vitamins found in cucumbers include folate, niacin and vitamins B-6, E and K. This information is based on a 2,000-calorie daily diet.
Minerals
Cucumbers contain trace amounts of various minerals, including potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, molybdenum, magnesium and silicon. These minerals contribute to cellular functions and promote a healthy immune system. Silicon contributes to bone formation and healthy connective tissue, while molybdenum aids kidney function and energy production of the cells. Potassium and magnesium may help lower blood pressure and help regulate fluids in the body.
Fiber
Cucumbers contain both fiber and water, which contribute to a healthy digestive system. Although raw cucumbers contain less than 1 g of fiber per 1-cup serving, the high water content in the vegetable improves the value of the small amount of fiber. According to a report by Dr. Warren Enker, vice chairman of the Beth Israel Medical Center's Department of Surgery, a balance of water intake and fiber consumption is necessary for healthy bowel function. The water and fiber content of cucumbers help you feel full longer, which makes them a healthy and beneficial snack for those watching their weight.
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