I loved hearing from all of you on my sesame seed article. It’s great to see how many of you in our active worldwide community are following Step 3 of the Save Our Bones Program and looking for additional ways to use the Foundation Foods.
Also, I heard your message loud and clear – you want more articles about specific foods. So here’s another in what will be a series on bone-supporting Foundation Foods. I give you… the cucumber.
Paul Bragg, a pioneer in healthy eating back in the 1920’s, said:
“There is nothing more nourishing for the skin to have than the liquid juice from the cucumber. The nutrition-rich water that it contains, when taken into the body, adds lustre to the hair, sparkle to the eye, color to the lips, tone to the skin, and spring to the step.”
As poetic as that sounds, there’s solid science behind it. These cool, crunchy treats are alkalizing, and their skin is loaded with…
Silica for Healthy Bones
As we age, our bones tend to become less dense. And our hair drier and nails more brittle. Does this have to happen? No. Feed your body what it needs, and you can keep your strong bones and the glow of youth long into your “senior” years. One of the things your body needs is silicon, often referred to as silica.
The loss of bone density, as well as the dry hair and brittle nails, happens in part because our bodies lose silica as we age. To replenish your store of silica, look no further than the humble cucumber, which has extremely high levels of silica.
Silica aids in bone health in two major ways:
It’s instrumental in collagen formation. Collagen is a fibrous protein that is responsible for holding us together. Without this connective tissue, we would essentially fall apart in a gooey mess.
It facilitates the assimilation of calcium. Without adequate silica, our bodies can’t make use of bone-building calcium, and it can be leeched from the bones.
If you’ve heard about silica/silicon, you may be wondering what the difference is. Here’s the scoop. Silicon is one of the most common elements found in the Earth’s crust, but it’s never seen in its raw state. Silicon combines with oxygen to form a silicate ion (SiO4). Silica-rich rocks include obsidian, granite, and sandstone. In the human body, silica is a vital component of collagen and is found in all our connective tissues. For the purposes of this article, I’ll use silica, but don’t be confused the next time you see one or the other.
Cucumbers also contain magnesium, which works in synergy with calcium to keep bones healthy. I go over magnesium and how it assists in bone health in more depth in the Save Our Bones Program.
Cucumber Tidbits, Trivia & Cautions
Did you know that cucumbers are really fruits, and that they’re close relatives of that other cool summer treat, watermelons?
Most of cucumbers’ nutrients, including most of the silica, are in the skin, so to get the most out of your cucumbers, don’t peel them. If you can get organic, unwaxed cucumbers, you can safely eat the skin. Otherwise, make sure you use a vegetable wash to get rid of the wax and other toxins.
Even though cucumbers don’t have a ton of fiber (about 1 gram in an average cucumber), the fiber they do contain can hold up to 30 times its weight in water. Wheat bran, usually considered a star in the fiber universe, holds only four to six times its weight in water.
Many popular cucumber recipes involve pickling, or the use of vinegar. The acidifying effects of vinegar neutralize the cucumbers’ health benefits. If you want to enjoy a vinegary cucumber dish, substitute apple cider vinegar, which is alkalizing and will actually boost the nutritional value of your dish.
Other Benefits of Cucumbers
Cucumbers’ flesh is almost 96% water, which makes them extremely hydrating. Perfect during a detox regimen and for maintaining that healthy, youthful glow. In addition to water, cucumber flesh contains ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which can be helpful in counteracting water retention.
You’ve probably heard of putting cucumber slices over your eyes to reduce swelling – well, it actually works!
The caffeic and ascorbic acids in cucumbers make them effective for soothing tired eyes, taming the ouch of sunburn and other burns, and providing soothing relief for many types of dermatitis. Next time you burn yourself, reach for a cucumber.
Note: Even though coffee contains caffeic acid, caffeic acid has no relation to caffeine.
Selecting and Storing Cucumbers
True to their “cool as a cucumber” reputation, cucumbers don’t like heat, so make sure to keep them in your refrigerator – they’ll stay fresh for several days.
Once you’ve sliced into a cucumber, be sure to put it into a sealed container or wrap it tightly in plastic.
Don’t let your cucumbers sit at room temperature for too long, or they’ll lose their crispness.
Puffiness is a sign that they’re getting long in the tooth. Cucumbers should be firm, and a bright medium to dark green.
How to Enjoy Cucumbers
Cucumbers are one of my favorite veggies, so I try to incorporate them into my meals every chance I get. Here are a few examples and I’d love to hear some of your ideas:
I add a few slices of raw cucumber to veggie burgers instead of pickles.
One of my go-to quick meals is a healthy cucumber sandwich. I use hearty, alkaline sprouted whole-grain bread and spread on some of my homemade tahini. Then I layer on sliced, unpeeled cukes, tomatoes and onions and top it off with fresh alfalfa sprouts – is your mouth watering yet? If you don’t have access to sprouted grain bread, any whole grain bread will do.
I sometimes juice cucumbers along with other bone healthy Foundation Foods for a refreshing taste and an additional nutritional boost.
And now, I’d like to share a very special cucumber salad with you. I know you’ll love it as much as I do:
California Cucumber Salad
4 Servings
Ingredients:
2 red apples, unpeeled and cut into cubes
1 cucumber, unpeeled and cut into small pieces
5 dates, pitted and diced
Juice of half a lemon
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon honey
1/8 teaspoon basil
1/8 teaspoon parsley flakes
1/8 teaspoon cilantro
1 tablespoon chopped almonds
Directions
1. In a medium-sized bowl combine the apples, cucumber, and dates. Pour the lemon juice and mix well.
2. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt with the honey, basil, parsley, and cilantro.
3. Pour the dressing on the apple-cucumber mixture and sprinkle with almonds.
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June 8, 2011
My husband is Vietnamese and he makes me some cucumber soup . He stuff these cucumbers with a little ground turkey and produces a great tasting soup.
Does the heating of cucumbers alter it’s properties?
I am glad I found this website. Gives me HOPE.
January 9, 2011
Cucumber recipe really great. I feel better and think alcaline all the time when i am shopping.We enjoy the meals for stronger bones . Thank you for your time Vivian.
Catherine
January 4, 2011
California Cucumber Salad
I must say , this salad is not just good for the bones , but is also great stasting.
My whole family loves it. So everybody benefits
from it.
Thanks for all the great recepies.
Karin
November 26, 2010
Thanks for so many great hints to incorporate in my diet.
Couple questions: (1) Milk substitutes – can you provide examples
(2) Am allergic to soy and almost everything has it – any suggestions on acceptable types and amounts
January 3, 2011
Try unsweetened coconut milk. It is full of MCFA’s -
medium chain fatty acids, that are very healthy for the body. and it tastes great. Coconut oil is the
BEST cooking oil you can buy. Be sure to purchase the
COLD pressed oil. heat destroys the nutrition. LaVerne
November 27, 2010
Hi Jeanne,
Due to its phytoestrogen content, I don’t recommend soy anyway!
Almond milk is a great alternative.
January 3, 2011
But, Almond milk has no protein. and, it’s hard to find unsweetened. try Coconut milk laverne
November 15, 2010
I love cucumbers, and eat as much as I can in summer.
Q Do courgettes, melons, marrow also have these benefits?
I enjoy these fruit/veg too, and it would be great if they had health and bone benefits.
My current favourite cucumber recipe is to mix some plain yogurt (I use Greek) with small amount of mayo and seasonings to your own taste (I uses Maggi, liquid garlic, sometimes season-all). Add very finely chopped red onion, fainely chopped cucumber and fairly finely chopped tomato. Mix in well and put in the fridge. It’s lovely with baked potato, savoury baked egg, quiche, savoury bread pudding….. Or instead of pickle in a sandwich (drained first).
October 6, 2010
Thanks for all the info. I would like to know the name of a good protin drink, Will try the cucumber recipes today. Thanks so much for all your research, love hearing from you,Keep up the good work, your friend,
August 29, 2010
I have tried repeatedly to connect with you on Facebook, but always get the message that my password – and now even the confirmation Code are incorrect.
I love your recipies for steeamed broccoli and
that cucumber salad!!! What a treat!
Thanks, Elisabeth
August 17, 2010
I am glad to know about the healthiness of cucumbers. I thought I just liked them!
My favorite way to eat cucumbers, other than in a salad, is on whole wheat (thin-sliced Pepperidge Farms) with a little scraping of mayonnaise and WATER-CRESS. The water-cress helps with iron, the cucumber with calcium and they taste wonderful together.
August 14, 2010
I think I have excellent bones, shiny hair and strong nails. I’m not young, but I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 17 and vegan now for about 35 years.It’s a family joke that i’ve always included seaweed in just about every meal – if possible. I eat organic food and a lot of it raw and as fresh as possible.I’ve now discovered brown seaweed extract – concentrated seaweed which will take heavy metals out of the body as well as supplying organic minerals. I’m also a fan of organic silica (liquid) and a positive outlook. We should always be thinking health not disease.
August 9, 2010
Thanks for nice receipes!
Does plain raw yogurt lose any of it’s good effects if honey and alkali fruits are added to it?
August 9, 2010
1-Do pickles have the same benefits as cucumbers?
2-Do blood types and people vary in how people benefit from foods?
3-I try to eat alkali foods, but get burning when I urinate, pain there and also a sore throat from fruits and veggies. This problem is called vulvodynia. So how do I cope with a -3.5 osteoporosis , when the things that are supposed to be good for me either burn me, or give head or stomach aches? For this skin irritation it is necessary to eat the opposite of your osteoporosis diet. Meat&dairy are recommended,and going light on veggies and fruits. so it would be your 80/20 theory in reverse! I’m between a rock and a hard place! HELP!!! roseinthewoods@gmail.com if anybody has real help for this please respond!
August 8, 2010
Vivian, I juice the English cucumbers are they the same as organic? After reading Shirley’s comment of 7/1/2010 I would like information of the program she’s own. Thanks!!!
August 2, 2010
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in my spine today after having a bone density scan. My doctor wanted to put me on medication, but I told her I wanted to try a natural approach. I already am excercising for my high cholesterol and eat a nutritional low fat diet including lots of fruits, vegetables, fish, buffalo, chicken, seeds and nuts. I love cucumbers and grow them in my garden. This article definitely gave me a positive attitude toward treating myself without medication. Thank you.
January 3, 2011
Add to your diet, a product found in the dairy case.
KEFIR. It is full of bone building Vit K laverne
August 1, 2010
Until now I was just-sometimes taking look at the articles, today first time I read the comments and I liked to be a part of you, who share information.
Thank you Vivian. From now on I’ll try my best to have time for more reading of comments, and make comments.
Thank you all, sincerely
Tanya
July 30, 2010
THAN YOU EVER SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR INFO. AND
RECIPES. WILL HAVE MY BONE DENSITY IN OCT. SO
WILL LET YOU KNOW I AM DOING. HAVE NEVER CARED
THAT MUCH FOR CUCUMBER BUT NOW I REALLY LIKE IT
AND HAVE IT EVERY DAY. I LIKE YOUR SALAD (cuke). KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK YOU ARE DOING.
BLESS,
July 24, 2010
Thank you Vivian. you are indeed a gift to the world and to us who suffer from osteo, you are a God send.
July 23, 2010
I love reading everything you write. I’m gaining in intelligence and wisdom. You are so correct, Mother Nature knows best. Thanks again for everything. Kimberly Cook
July 21, 2010
Thank you for the fascinating and useful info on cucumbers and sesame seeds – and the tasty and healthy recipes – all very very helpful.
Please keep up these ‘healthy eating’ tips.
Bless you – Barbara
July 14, 2010
I just had an appointment with my doctor and mentioned that statins and biphosphonates reduce the bodies natural ability to produce CoQ10, ubiquinone. He replied that he had never seen a study that reflected that information. Is there such a study and if so was there a “P” factor that showed a statisical significance? I would love to obtain a copy and enlighten him!
Sue
Northern Calif
January 3, 2011
Try Dr Mercola’s website. He cites research info.
laverne
July 14, 2010
There are lots of studies on this.
Here’s one by Fisher, Reszka, et al.: “In Vivo Effects of bisphosphonates on the osteoclast mevalonate pathway”, published in Endocrinology, 2000.
And this one by Hargreaves et al.: “The effect of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors on Coenzyme Q10: possible biochemical/clinical implications”, Drug Safety, 2005.
Luckman wrote “Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates inhibit the mevalonate pathway and prevent translational prenylation of GTP-binding proteins, including Ras”, published in the Journal of Mineral Research, 1998.
July 12, 2010
Thank for the cumcumber receipe. I had my regular check up on Friday.She couldn’t understand why I wasn’t taking Fosamax. I told her I choose not to. My insurance won’t pay for a another bone density but every two years. So, I will keep doing what I’m doing and feeling good about. I like hearing about everyone improved bone density. Next year you can hear mine.
July 24, 2011
I use my VITA-MIX (best thing I’ve ever bought) and I put : filtered water, (Arizona or California) carrots, and organic cucumbers, with a bit of stevia. Blend till its pulverized / smooth, and drink.
healthy and delicious. Thank G-d I grow my own cucumber, so in the summer we have it home grown…
July 7, 2010
Thanks for all the healthy suggestion! God bless you and your readers with good health! Keep up the goodwork of updating us…..
Grateful,
Grace C.
July 6, 2010
Hi Vivian
I knew the cucumber is good for you. But this article was very interesting.
I just made one of your recipes last night. It was really great.
Thanks
Hester
July 6, 2010
Well, have been following the program, and looking forward to having a check-up bone density test in October. Feeling great.
Pamela
July 5, 2010
Hi Vivian:
Again, thanks so very much for the info re: cucumbers. I have always loved them and did not know that they were so beneficial to our heath. I love the cucumber recipe and hope you will be making this addition a regular to your emails. Stay well and safe. Love to hear from you.
July 5, 2010
Hi! Vivian,
Thank you very much for the interesting foods that are good for our bones. Yes I enjoy cucumbers in Salad & Tahini spread with cucumber, olive oil & a sprinkle of pepper.
God Bless,
Millie.
July 4, 2010
Dear Vivian: Thanksyou so very much for the cucumber Salad. I eat it olmost every day. But de Salad with all toguether sound delicius.
I want to ask you If the green planters, is good to eat , than the ripe ?…..I eat very often. The same sesame seed.
Sincerely , Maria
July 4, 2010
As I know cucumbers can help strong our immunization, but now I know also can help strong our bones too.
You always look after our diet. Thank you Vivian
July 3, 2010
I love cucumbers but find that it does not agree with me. I have used silica in a liquid form before. What are your thoughts on that?
July 3, 2010
Hi,Vivian,
Thank you for info of cucumbers.
I love cucumbers. I did not know
cucumbers are good for bone health.
Thanks again.
Susan
July 3, 2010
Vivian,
Thank you for the cucumber salad recipe. It sounds delicious.
Keep the recipes coming. It’s what I need.
Instead of sour cream in the Creamy Rasberry Pie I substitute plain yogurt and it cooks up the same but has less calories. And it’s still yummy!
July 23, 2010
I would be interested in the receipe for creamy raspberry pie if it is still available.
Thankyou.
July 2, 2010
i like cucumbers and i am growing them in my garden. A friend has always told me there is not value to them and even a pig will not eat them. No ans for them I just know there good and i guess i am not a pig. lol. went back to the doctors and he asked abt fosmax and i said i did not take it because i did not think it is right for me. he said ok and maybe they will come out with something new in a few years and we would wait a couple of years before doing another bone desinty test but i do not care if i do another or not. the doctor was good and will work with me. i am thankful Elaine
July 2, 2010
I really love cucumbers on a salmon sandwich. It may sound strange, but it is awesome! We live in the country and have a beautiful garden, so we enjoy fresh vegs.all summer.Really love cukes! Thanks for the tips!
July 2, 2010
I bought your book “The Bone Health Revolution.
May family does not think I eat enough protein.
Do you have a book with menues and recipes,telling me what and how much to eat each day.
I am very interested in purchasing such a booke
Thank you for your time and helping us.
Louise
July 2, 2010
I Love cucmbers and never knew they were healthy for my bones. I have hyperparathyroidism and wonder if your program will still work for me? Having surgery for this condition is not a consideration for me since they may have to remove most of the glands and leave me on calcitiol for the rest of my life.
We are growing cucumbers in our garden and love them.
Thank you
Jan
August 4, 2010
I TOO HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH HYPERPARATHYROIDISM,SEVERE OSTEOPOROSIS OF THE SPINE.(have had osteo for yrs0 will not take meds.
suggestion is tumor on the gland,possible exploratory surgery…NOT all testing (nuclear,as well),ct scan,thyroid ultra-sound showed No adenoma.
will this program work for me,and help to correct hpt situation ?
July 2, 2010
I keep a jug of filtered water in the fridge with slices of cucumber in it. The cucumber imparts a really lovely, subtle, thirst-quenching taste to the water. I don’t know if it makes the water any healthier but it does make me drink more water so that’s good in itself.
July 2, 2010
I am so appreciative for all your info & the reader comments, despite the warnings, due to 3 vertebral fractures over 2 years combined with the fact my source of month to month income is very physically labor intense, I have made the decision after 2 years of study, to start Forteo on July 9. I have been less than impressed with the coordination & incredibly confused office personnel who have been less than compassionate, totally inefficient & filled with conflicting info, yet always able to warn me about the side effects. If anyone out there would like to communicate regarding their experience or info regarding this medication, I am anxiously here to listen.
July 18, 2010
I took Forteo for 2 years and actually felt great. I am a very busy person and I walked as much as possible for exercise. My bone loss was 33% and that scared me into doing something. I came out of the osteoporisis catagory and haven’t so far felt any effects of the drug. I do have a little joint pain but I think that is age. I am 62 and I stopped taking Forteo last Oct.2009. My doctor wants me to take something else now but I have not decided?????
July 2, 2010
One of your guests asked for input from people who have taken Forteo. It is the only drug I have consented to take, doing so after 5 collapsed vertebrae and two broken knees. My doc, a lovely man, convinced me it was necessary declaring 95% of the people had great results. I didn’t. Was very sick every day of the 17 month treatment. Gained only 5% bone density, and that was in the first couple months. His physical therapy dept. was of more help than the Forteo.
July 3, 2010
thanks for this reply….I am beginning to believe it might be a good idea to somehow find Forteo clients & make comparison results as it seems the so called confidential patient registry is solely for the drug company. I have requested my doctor inform his other clients, I would love to communicate with them….but I hope those HEPA laws do not prevent this. I was very disappointed to read your story however 5% increase is better than nothing but maybe not if you feel il the whole time. If as you say PT helped more, that is important info.Keep doing it!!!! Our bones are the structure that holds us together literally & figuratively.
July 2, 2010
Thanks for all the infomation. Very informative.
July 2, 2010
Hello Vivian, Your food goodies are most interesting. I put ground sesame seeds in and on all sorts of dishes. I shall eat more cucumber in future. Thank you Best wishes Monica
July 1, 2010
My recpie: Slice cucumbers chop sweet vidalia onion, mix plain acidolopolis (Dannon or homeade) yogurt with dill mix and serve
July 14, 2010
Thanks for sharing yet another scrumptious cucumber recipe!
August 1, 2010
I have one more receipy, as salad:
2tomatoes
2 persian cucumbers
1/2 red-sweet onion
Chop the onion very thin slices; than the cucumbers and tomatoes in cubes; put all in a small salad bowl add olive oil(Bertolli-Classico) and viniger(vegy)-a lot;
You can add feta cheese cubes and some fresh belpeper if you want to.
Oregano goes very well with it, too.
Thank you:)
August 1, 2010
I also didn’t know that cucumber could help with our bons. I love to use its skin as refreshening for my face each time I peel one. Here another receipy with yogurt;
3 tbs of plain yogurt
1-2 persian cucumber(cubs w/skin)
galic(powder or fresh choped)
Dill(dry or fresh)
Chop all in a small bowl and mix. Optional; You can add 1-2tbs water and 1teasp olive oil and a little sea salt.Refreshing snack for all time.:))
July 1, 2010
I have heard about the many uses there are for cucumbers. Not only are they healthy to eat but they are very good for many other things. Since I have learned about them, I have been using them more than ever. You are a gem to share the cucumber information.
July 1, 2010
Thanks again Vivian for the lovely cucumber salad – I use a fair amount of cucumber and always buy Continental or Lebanese – should I look for organic – as well as use any variety of other cucumbers?? Blessings Kelsey AUSTRALIA.
July 1, 2010
Thanks for the info. I always put cucumbers in my garden type salads, but I use flavored rice vinegar because it tastes so good. Do I need to switch to cider vinegar?
July 1, 2010
Love cucumbers. My mother always washed the cucumber well and then scraped down the side with a fork – then when you slice them they look very pretty on the plate or in a salad. I like them sliced super thin. The cucumbrs this year seem to be better than in the past. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMlove them.
July 1, 2010
THANK YOU VIVIAN FOR THE INFORMATION ABOUT CUCUMBERS; I HAVE TO INCORPORATE THEM IN MY SALADS.
I CONSIDER IT A GREAT PIECE OF INFORMATION; THANK YOU FOR SHARING IT WITH US VIVIAN.
July 1, 2010
Thanks for your cucumber salad recipe. I stopped taking Actonel couple of years ago. I am fine cause I go to the Y daily and do my daily exercises. I ate a lot of fruits and veggies and fruit juices. I take supplements instead of prescription drugs and your book is my reference all the time. Thanks for the good work.
July 1, 2010
I heard about the “wonderful cucumber”
from a friend’s email but the detail about it will make me sure to use it.
Than you, Vivan.
July 1, 2010
I love cucumbers and have 2 plants growing and 2 tomato plants. The cuke skin would kill my stomach, but I might use the skin for a quick facial. My Dr.told me if I fall and break my hip, because I refused Forteo, that I will probably die. Having broken my back twice in the last year I prefer being careful than poisoning my body and paying 880. a month to do it.So I am now very careful and use the quad cane and less activity…..
July 1, 2010
Hi Vivian! Thank you so much for your advice on sesame seeds. I love them and sprinkle them on so many things. Also I am anxious to try your cucumber sandwich idea! It looks yummy! Thanks for all your help and for being in my ‘corner’!
July 1, 2010
I really appreciate these recipes and yes, my mouth is watering for the cucumber sandwich. I also appreciate the pages in your book about what is alkalized and what is not.
July 1, 2010
Thanks Vivian for that very helpful information. My hair skin and and eyes certainly could use the cucumber – I really need to boost collagen levels!
I eat heaps of cucumbers in the summer but slow down in the winter.
My mother always made a simple salad using cucumber, tomato, onion, a bit of parsley and a dressing made from lemon, a little sugar (I use honey) some olive oil and pepper. It is quick, easy and quite delicious.
I am going to start that doing again. The salad keeps for ages in the fridge which is another added bonus.
July 14, 2010
Thanks for sharing your mother’s recipe, Coby.
July 1, 2010
Thanks Vivien for the information on cucumbers. I eat them most days of the week, it is lovely to no how much they are doing me good. I do appreciate all the tips you give us please keep up the good work. God Bless Pat