Eat healthy : Cool as a cucumber

The most clichéd, yet effective way to cool oneself on a hot summer day is to take two fresh slices of cucumber and place them over your eyes

Put on some soothing music and relax while you feel like the cucumber takes away all your heat and you remain, so to speak, as cool as a cucumber. Doesn't it already sound so relaxing? Have you ever wondered why cucumbers are so refreshing on a scorching sunny day?

Cucumbers are extremely high in water and this is what makes it so refreshing, their water content is about 96.4%. Apart from that, cucumbers are beautifying. This is certified by the fact that cosmetic products claim to use cucumber extracts. Using fresh cucumber for the same is infinitely more powerful for your body. It is even granny's favourite thing to feed and apply during the summer.

The cucumber flesh is primarily composed of water but also contains vitamin C which is not only good for your skin but also helps in the absorption of iron and protein. This vitamin is also essential in protecting you against bacteria and viruses.

Cucumber's hard skin is rich in dietary fiber, making it a natural laxative. They are also a great digestive aid. You must remember that it is important to keep your bowels clean all the time because constipation is the father of all diseases. Its skin is also rich in some important minerals such as silica, magnesium and potassium. Silica is an essential component of your connective tissue, which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone. It also helps improve the complexion and health of your skin. Its potassium and magnesium content makes it beneficial in regulating blood pressure. Magnesium also helps in the relaxation of nerves.

Cucumbers is also a great kidney cleanser. They help to wash off stones and debris from the kidney as well as bladder. Therefore, they can work well against other kidney-related problems like urine infections and even dehydration. Cucumbers are low in calories as well as sugar. For thousands of years, they have been the favourite food of dieters.

Have them in any form! Kakdi ka raita is one of my favourites. Often, I even simply slice them, add some rock salt and eat them. You could also chop them into fine pieces and make a salad with some chopped carrots, tomato and lettuce. This salad can also be mixed with some roasted mumura to which you could add some green chutney and date chutney making a tasty bhel.

(The writer is a Mumbai based nutritionist, obesity and health consultant)