Cucumber

Definition

Cucumber, otherwise known as Cucumis sativus, is a vegetable of the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. This vegetable contains no saturated fat or cholesterol and is a very good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Potassium.

Health considerations

Aside from being a nutrient rich, and low calorie food, cucumbers have been shown to provide anti-cancer benefits as well. Cucurbitacin B, a chemical found in cucumbers and other plants, has demonstrated anti-tumor properties in prostate cancer.

May be found in

Salads, dressings, sauces, flavoured water

References

Cancer Letters
Self Nutrition Data
The World’s Healthiest Foods

Alternative Spellings and Names

Cucumis sativus