Many people refer to cucumbers as vegetables, even though they’re actually fruits. Nonetheless, due to their nutrients and high water content, cucumbers are in almost every dieter's meal plan. But how many calories do they contain?
Read on to find out.
Calorie and Nutrient Content in a Cucumber
Cucumbers are an important source of nutrients. This includes up to 30 calories, protein, soluble fiber, and carbohydrates. They also have hydration properties, since 95% of their content is water.
Cucumbers contain vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. Better still, they have antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins that protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Cucumbers Role in Weight Loss
The soluble fiber in cucumbers adds bulk and helps to promote feelings of fullness. This helps you to avoid snacking before main meals.
Low in calories, there is only around 16 calories in a single-cup serving of cucumber. As such, they’re a good food to satisfy your appetite and control your calorie intake.
Ways of Incorporating Cucumbers to Your Diet
It's best to eat cucumbers unpeeled since most of the nutrients are on the skin. Some people prefer to juice them along with other fruits. However, you can also chop and crunch them whole as snacks or add them as a salad topping.
Another great option is to cut the cucumber into vertical slices and dip them in a high-protein drink such as plain Greek yogurt.
Nutritious and Refreshing
Cucumbers are a low-calorie option that is also high in nutrients. Adding them to a meal or snack helps to keep you hydrated and boosts the flavor of any dish.