1 serving (150 grams) contains 22 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, and 5.4 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
18 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2.4 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4.4 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g | 2% | |
| Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| protein | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 19.2 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 176.4 mg | 3% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Cucumber
Cucumber is a widely consumed vegetable that originates from South Asia and is integral to many global cuisines, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean dishes. Known for its high water content (about 95%), cucumbers are refreshing and low in calories, making them an excellent hydrating choice. Nutritionally, they offer modest amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and essential minerals like calcium and iron. With just 15 calories per 100 grams, cucumbers are versatile and often enjoyed raw in salads or infused in drinks, providing a crisp and cooling element to meals.
Health Benefits
- Hydration support due to its 95% water content, helping maintain fluid balance in the body.
- Vitamin C (2.8 mg per 100g) boosts immune health and aids in skin repair and collagen production.
- Rich in antioxidants, cucumbers may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress due to compounds like flavonoids and tannins.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cucumbers in the crisper section of the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Avoid excess moisture to prevent spoilage; wrap in a paper towel if not refrigerating immediately.
Common Questions About Cucumber Nutrition
Is cucumber high in protein?
Cucumber is not high in protein, providing only 0.65 grams of protein per 100 grams. It is mostly composed of water (around 95%), making it a hydrating food rather than a significant protein source.
Can I eat cucumber on a keto diet?
Yes, cucumber is keto-friendly due to its low carbohydrate content of 3.63 grams per 100 grams. It is an excellent choice for a keto diet as it contains minimal net carbs while being refreshing and hydrating.
What are the health benefits of eating cucumber?
Cucumber is rich in water and low in calories, making it great for hydration and weight management. It contains small amounts of vitamins such as vitamin K and antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and support bone health. However, its nutrient density is relatively low compared to other vegetables.
How much cucumber should I eat per serving?
A typical serving size for cucumber is about half a medium cucumber or 100 grams. This provides roughly 15 calories, making it a low-calorie addition to meals or snacks. You can adjust portions based on specific dietary goals.
How does cucumber compare to zucchini?
Cucumber and zucchini are similar in appearance but differ nutritionally. Zucchini contains more fiber (2 grams per 100 grams vs. cucumber's 0.5 grams) and slightly more calories (17 vs. 15). While both are hydrating, zucchini is richer in nutrients like vitamin C and potassium, making it better for nutrient-dense meals.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Cucumber DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Nutritional and Health Benefits of CucumbersNational Library of Medicine (PubMed Central)Discusses the antioxidant properties, hydration benefits, and overall health impacts of cucumbers.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesHighlights the importance of vegetables like cucumbers as part of a balanced dietary pattern.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
