As a member of the Cucurbitaceae family of plants, cucumbers contain high levels of bitter-tasting nutrients known as cucurbitacin. According to an articleTrusted Source in the International Journal of Health Services, cucurbitacins may help prevent cancer by stopping cancer cells from reproducing. A 133-g cupTrusted Source of chopped cucumber with its skin also provides around 1 g of fiber. Fiber may help protect against colorectal cancer.