Cucumber water might not be the first thing you think of for a healthful drink since cucumbers are often relegated to eye de-puffers or hummus companions. Yet, when aiming to elevate your hydration and health routine, don't overlook this crisp vegetable. On my latest grocery run, cucumbers were a top pick. Sipping cucumber water daily for a month, I encountered a range of impressive perks that might just pique your curiosity.
Here's the Motivation Behind My 30-Day Cucumber Water Journey
You might be curious about what led me to commit to this cucumber-infused regimen for an entire month. Amidst the bustle of wedding preparations, I was on a quest for that bridal radiance. The claim that cucumber water could give my skin a luminous glow immediately caught my eye. After all, which bride doesn't yearn for that perfect wedding day shine?
I'll hold back on the details for now but continue reading to discover the positive changes I experienced from a month-long dedication to cucumber water.
The Positive Effects I Encountered from my Cucumber Water Routine:
1) Drinking Cucumber Water Refreshed my Skin and Boosted Its Health
My skin often becomes parched under the intense summer sun and then again during the biting cold of winter. However, sipping on cucumber water seemed to bestow a healthier, more moisturized look upon my skin. I can't tell if it was just an exceptionally good skin month, but alongside a brighter complexion, I noticed my skin stayed remarkably clear of any blemishes. I'm not prone to frequent breakouts, but during that month with my steadfast cucumber water intake, my skin appeared exceptionally clear and felt revitalized. The changes became apparent after two weeks.
Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, a dietitian on our Medical Expert Board, explained that cucumbers are laden with silica, a nutrient that is beneficial for the skin. Additionally, cucumbers have vitamin B5, which may aid in addressing acne.
2) Inspired me to Drink More Water Than Usual
I've always appreciated the importance of staying hydrated, but refilling my water glass regularly can be a challenge amidst a hectic work schedule. Plus, let's be honest, plain water can become quite boring. That's why I jazzed up my hydration habit with something more visually appealing and invigorating: cucumber water. It became a delightful ritual to anticipate each morning, spurring me to keep my glass filled throughout the day.
I must mention, cucumber water is particularly appealing during hot summer days for its cooling and refreshing qualities. The convenience of grabbing cucumbers from the farmer's market right below my apartment sweetened the deal.
However, there's a downside: cucumber water acts as a diuretic, meaning it can increase the frequency of urination. For someone who already visits the bathroom frequently, this wasn't a welcome effect, especially since it could lead to more disruptive trips during the night if consumed before bed. Despite its benefits, this aspect of cucumber water was less than desirable for me.
3) Easy to Prepare
Savoring a fresh pitcher of cucumber water became my daily pleasure during the summer's warmth, amounting to roughly six generous glasses each day. I got into the habit of preparing it the evening before, ensuring it was chilled and ready to serve at the break of dawn. The preparation couldn't be more straightforward: acquire a cucumber, slice it, place the slices in a pitcher of water, and refrigerate overnight. Simplicity at its best! The bonus? No peeling required, which I appreciated because no matter how beneficial a health practice might be, if it's too labor-intensive, it's unlikely to last.
In my exploration, I stumbled upon popular cucumber water twists, like adding mint, lemon, or ginger. For those who enjoy a little extra flair, matching lime green straws and a stylish mason jar mug can elevate the hydration experience to new heights.
4) Reduces Belly Bloating
I often find that various foods and drinks, from pasta to seltzer, trigger stomach discomfort and lead to unwelcome bloating. Yet, to my relief, cucumber water seemed to mitigate this issue, which was particularly beneficial as my wedding day approached.
Curious about this effect, I consulted Goodson, who suggested that the fiber in cucumbers might enhance digestion, aiding in regular bowel movements and lessening bloating.
Moreover, Goodson noted the low-calorie nature of cucumber water, making it an excellent alternative to sugary or high-calorie beverages, especially for those mindful of their weight. "It's a sensible choice when you're controlling your calorie consumption," she remarked.
Cucumber water may not suit everyone, but it has definitely become a staple for me. Successfully incorporating this wholesome practice for an entire month has motivated me to explore more simple, healthful habits to include in my daily life. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go refill my cucumber water!