Cool as a Cucumber

 

This is the best time of year to be “cool as a cucumber".  Did you know a few slices of cucumber can provide an afternoon pick-me-up that can last for hours and help ward off the munchies until mealtime?

 

A single cucumber also contains a healthy portion of most of the vitamins we need every day, including vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6; vitamin C, folic acid (vitamin B9), as  well as calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

 Cucumbers belong to the same family as watermelon, zucchini, pumpkin, and other types of squash and are known for helping lower blood pressure and others uses listed below:

• The silica in cucumber is an essential component of healthy connective tissue, which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bone.


• Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin.


• Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn.


• Two compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis.

SOURCE: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=42

 

Velonda Thompson, PhD - Nutritionist, Professor, Speaker and Author of "Pass the Sweet Potatoes, Please!" and "Calm Under Fire".

www.befitinc.com  http://hhcextracts.com/5618