Summer is fast approaching and we will soon find ourselves enjoying activities in the baking, hot sun. Who amongst us doesn’t look forward to good old DIY, gardening, jogging on outdoor trails, and swimming?

When our bodies begin to overheat, we need to look for foods that are cooling and replenish lost moisture. There is nothing better than cucumbers!

Steve Gagne is the best-selling author of ‘The Energetics of Food’. In his book he states, ‘Generally, those foods that fall into the category of cold or cool, are foods of a plant origin, that is high in water (juice), grown in water, high in vitamins and anti-oxidants, grown in tropical or semi-tropical climates, fermented, and lower in fat and protein’.

Cucumbers are the personification of a cold, cooling food. Properties of cold, cooling foods include relief of thirst, dissipation of heat and reduction of oedema. Now you know where the saying, ‘cool as a cucumber’ came from!

Cucumbers are ready for slicing when they feel firm, fresh and cylindrical shaped (avoid misshapen cucumbers). They should have a vibrant medium to dark green colour.

Cucumbers that are soft to the touch, shriveled, dull or lightly yellow in colour (due to aging) should be avoided. Although cucumbers are available year round, they are in ‘peak season’ between the months of May and June.

The flesh of cucumbers is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C and folic acid. The skin is rich infibre, magnesium, potassium, molybdenum and silica. Cucumbers are not only cooling, they are exceptionally healthy. Let’s look at a few good reasons to eat them:

Cucumbers are amazing for your skin

Cucumbers are the ultimate natural beauty aide. They are a rich source of silica, a trace mineral that contributes to healthy connective tissue. Connective tissue, like tendons, cartilage and ligaments, hold the body together.

The silica in cucumber juice improves the complexion and health of the skin. Everyone knows that water is extraordinarily important for your skin. Cucumbers are nearly 80% water. Its juice will leave your skin feeling soft and supple.

Cucumbers contain ascorbic and caffeic acid, which prevents water retention, soothes skin irritations swelling. We live in an overworked society that spends a tremendous amount of time staring at computer screens, smart phone screens, etc. The eyes can take a beating.

Purchase a ripe cucumber, cut a few thin slices, lie back in bed and place the slices over your eyes. Five to ten minutes later, you will feel refreshed and relaxed.

Cucumbers are great for your hair

Cucumbers are an exceptional source of nutrition for your hair. They nourish the scalp, improve circulation and reduce itching. If you suffer from dandruff, run to the market for fresh cucumbers. You can either consume them or apply cucumber pulp or juice to your scalp.

If you opt to do a scalp application, rub the pulp or juice directly into the scalp and let it sit for at least ten minutes. Looking to grow hair, fill in missing patches of hair or simply ‘keep what you have’? Yes, rub some cucumber pulp or juice into your scalp on a daily basis.