We’re barely halfway through summer and we already feel exhausted. The extreme heat is taking a toll on our mood, energy levels as well as overall health. It is necessary that we modify our diet according to the season and opt for summer-friendly foods. We should not only include more hydrating ingredients but also stay away from ingredients that have a heating effect on our body. Many fruits and vegetables are popular during summers because of their high water content. One such ingredient is cucumber. Although botanically a fruit, Cucumbers Widely considered a vegetable – mainly because they are used in savory rather than sweet preparations. Here’s why you need to include cucumber in your diet:
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What are the health benefits of cucumber? , Health Benefits of Cucumber:
1. Provides relief from digestive problems
Cucumber can help in dealing with problems like indigestion, acidity and Swelling. It has a diuretic effect and thus can provide relief from constipation. It helps promote regular bowel movements as well as overall intestinal health.
2. Detoxes the body
Cucumber helps flush out toxins from your body due to its high water content as well as digestion-friendly properties. Cucumber juice is a simple and effective detox drink that you can opt for.
3. Good for Your Heart
Cucumber contains plant compounds that reduce the risk of heart diseases and also reduce the amount of bad cholesterol.
4. Rich in Antioxidants
there are cucumbers antioxidant Which can help combat free radical damage and oxidative stress. Cucumbers also contain vitamins C and K, magnesium, potassium and manganese.
Learn more nutrition facts about cucumbers Here. Last, but not the least, find out how it can help you with weight management.
Is cucumber good for weight loss?
Cucumbers have a high water content (about 96%), and consuming them can help you feel fuller for longer. This, in turn, can curb cravings and aid in weight loss. Fat and sugar are negligible in cucumber. They provide natural hydration and can improve metabolism, thus helping you shed extra kilos. Consuming cucumber alone will not help with your weight loss goals. But making them a part of your regular diet and combining them with nutrient-rich foods can help you lose weight. Here are some easy recipes to get you started:
Here are 5 healthy and interesting ways to include cucumber in your summer diet:
1. Cucumber Curd Rice
bowl of yummy curd rice For many of us it is the definition of comfort food. This simple dish refreshes us after a long day in the summer heat and also lightens the body. We recommend taking the regular version up a notch by making Cucumber Curd Rice. This is an easy and healthy way to diversify your diet. Click Here For step-by-step recipe.
2. Cucumber Idli and Chutney
Want to taste a different kind of idli? So this is a must try! Cucumber Idli is a delicious flavored dish that can be enjoyed with any chutney of your choice. It also has the fragrance of coconut which makes it even more delicious. This idli is ready in less than 30 minutes. Click here for the full recipe. If you’re looking for a unique side dish, you can also add the flavor of cucumbers to a South Indian-style chutney. find recipe Here.
3. Cucumber Buttermilk
Who doesn’t want to enjoy soothing buttermilk in summers? Add some cucumber to buttermilk to make it even more hydrating and delicious! This drink is not only good for digestion but also suitable for weight loss diet. It can be prepared in just 10 minutes. Click Here For full recipe.
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4. Cucumber Cooler
There are many ways to use cucumbers to make nutritious drinks. A simple option is to combine cucumber and mint/coriander to make a beautiful green concoction. Full recipe here. You can also give it a twist by freezing cucumber melon — and take advantage of both of these summer-friendly ingredients. Click Here For full recipe.
5. Cucumber Salad
You can use cucumber as an ingredient for many vegetables salad. If you want a traditional option, choose the Kosambari Salad. This Moong Dal Salad is packed with nutrients and flavor that you will love. Click here for the recipe. You can also make a simple and refreshing Curd Cucumber Salad using only 5 ingredients. It is a bit like raita but does not contain onions. Find the full recipe Here.
Read also: This Traditional Moong Dal Salad Can Help You Lose Weight (Easy Recipe Inside)
Which of these dishes are you going to try first? Let us know in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This content provides general information only including advice. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult an expert or your own physician for more details. NDTV does not take responsibility for this information.