Crunchy, cool cucumber is hard to resist, whether it’s the highlight of a salad or dipped in creamy hummus. However, cucumbers—which are technically fruits—offer much more to meals than just a tasty, subtle flavor and texture. They are a great source of important nutrients.

Cucumbers (scientific name: Cucumis sativus) are an ancient food that have been used in cuisine for over 3,000 years. They were first popularized in India and quickly spread throughout Asia and eventually the world.1 In theory, cucumbers are fruits since they are members of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes squash, watermelon, and pumpkin. Enjoying these cucumbers and their many health advantages will never get old thanks to the more than 100 types that are available.

Here are a few of the most compelling arguments for continuing to chew on cucumbers.

They are very hydrating, cucumbers.

Cucumbers are high in water content, as you may have heard if you’ve studied any of the health benefits associated with them. Clinical dietician Dana Melink, RD, states, “Cucumbers are high in water content, helping to keep you hydrated.” They’re actually one of the most hydrating foods you can eat because they contain at least 95% water. Since water makes up the majority of our bodies, maintaining proper hydration is essential for the proper operation of all organ systems, especially the kidneys.2. Additionally, it maintains our detoxification systems operating at full capacity and aids in the maintenance of appropriate blood pressure.

Vitamin K content is high in cucumbers.

You’ll get closer to meeting your daily requirements for vitamin K with each serving of cucumbers. Most significantly, vitamin K promotes appropriate blood clotting throughout the body. As a necessary precursor to the protein osteocalcin, which is required to form bone tissue, it is also critical for the healthy growth of bones.

Cucumbers have anti-inflammatory properties.

Melink adds, “Cucumbers are also full of antioxidants.” Cucumbers are a rich source of plant chemicals, or polyphenols, particularly lignans and cucurbitacins, just like many other plant-based foods. These plant-based substances combat free radicals, which have been linked to chronic illnesses including cancer and heart disease, as well as inflammation throughout the body.45 According to a study in the International Journal of Health Sciences, cucurbitacins work well to both destroy and stop the spread of cancer cells throughout the body.

Cucumbers aid in a healthy digestive system.

Cucumbers are a good item to eat to help digestion because of their water and fiber levels. Particularly rich in soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol and encourages regularity and a healthy metabolism, are cucumbers.7. Water is essential for healthy digestion since it aids in the body’s nutrient absorption and breakdown. Additionally, it aids in avoiding bloating and constipation.

Cucumbers provide potassium and vitamin C.

Cucumbers are a notable source of potassium and vitamin C in low but noticeable amounts. Another antioxidant that strengthens the immune system is vitamin C.8 Potassium, an electrolyte that helps keep fluid equilibrium throughout the body, increases the hydrating properties of cucumbers.

Cucumbers could aid with blood sugar regulation.

Additionally beneficial to blood sugar regulation and the avoidance or management of diabetes are cucumbers. A review that was published in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine discovered a link between cucumber eating and improved blood sugar regulation, which has anti-diabetic benefits.10 Notably, a study conducted on animals revealed that cucumbers can prevent the inflammatory consequences of diabetes by reducing oxidative stress in the body.

Typical Cucumber Types

As previously stated, this summer you can produce a plethora of varieties of cucumbers in your garden or choose from.

English cucumbers, also known as hothouse cucumbers: These long, dark green cucumbers are meant to be eaten (after washing), and you may frequently find them individually wrapped in plastic at the grocery store.

Japanese cucumbers: The skin of these slim, dark-green cucumbers is uneven and thin enough to consume without peeling.

Persian cucumbers: Despite being shorter and larger than English cucumbers, Persian cucumbers nevertheless have a crunch factor. There’s no need to peel them, and the grocery shop carries them easily.

Armenian cucumbers: Also known as snake cucumbers, Armenian cucumbers have exquisite wrinkled stripes that alternate between bright and dark green colors. These are great as a snack or pickling cucumbers.

Lemon cucumbers: If you come across this kind of cucumber at a farmers’ market, you ought to try it. Lemon cucumbers derive their name from being similar to the sour fruit in form and size, but with a lighter hue. That’s about the extent of the similarities between the two fruits, though, as these cucumbers have a delicate, sweet flavor.