Cucumber and gherkins belong to the same species but are from different cultivar groups. Cucumber originated in India where a large genetic diversity has been observed. It has been cultivated for at least 3000 years in Western Asia, including China, and was spread to Europe, first in Greece and Italy
Cucumbers contain Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6, folic acid, Vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Who needs a multivitamin?
Cucumbers are made up of mostly water, but also contain vitamins A, C and B6. Cucumbers were thought to be poisonous when they first originated. Cucumbers are considered a fruit. A cucumber’s flavour comes from the seed.
Cucumbers are a good source of potassium, magnesium and dietary fibre. These nutrients are known to lower blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of heart diseases. Research has also proved that regular consumption of cucumber juice was helpful in reducing blood pressure, in elderly people with hypertension.
Cucumbers contain electrolytes, such as potassium, that help regulate blood pressure levels during pregnancy. This is beneficial for pregnant women as they may experience blood pressure fluctuations due to hormonal changes. As a diuretic, cucumbers help reduce sodium levels in the body and maintain fluid balance
Common fruits that are good food for ulcer relief and healing stomach ulcers are apples, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, cherries, and bell peppers. Studies have shown that these foods carry polyphenols that help either heal the stomach lining faster or kill bacteria such as H. pylor
Cucumbers are plant foods with potential benefits, such bone health promotion, reduced cancer risk, and added hydration. There are few risks for eating cucumbers. However, there are plenty of ways to enjoy them, including in sandwiches and noodle dishes or as a standalone snack. Food & Nutrition Magazine
In Latin, the crunchy vegetable was known as the cucumerem, which then either passed up through Old French as cocombre, and then to English, or was just pulled straight from the Roman root in Wycliffe’s first English-language translation of the Bible (which does mention the veggie by name a few times).23 Aug 2013
BY CATHELINE ANKUNDA
