Stephen Fry has spoken about his favourite food, which can be just as good for you as drinking a glass of water. Discussing the low-calorie, antioxidant-rich food on Waitrose’s Dish podcast with Radio 1’s Nick Grimshaw and Michelin star chef Angela Hartnett, the BBC QI star said he never regrets eating it.
During the episode, Angela said: “We hear you love cucumbers.” Stephen replied: “Cucumbers are probably my favourite.” The chef added: “I mean, I’ve never heard anyone love them so much.”
The British actor and comedian continued: “Fruit? I think they’re a fruit, technically, aren’t they?” Angela agreed with him. “I know, they hardly taste of anything,” he went on. “It’s just the texture, the crisp, watery texture.”
Nick commented: “You never regret a cucumber.” To which Stephen replied: “You don’t.” The Radio 1 presenter said: “You’re never like, ‘Oh, I’veoverate the cucumber.’ Do you know what I mean? It’s always an enjoyable little snack.”
Cucumbers are often mistaken for vegetables, but they are actually classified as fruits because they contain seeds. They are packed with water, up to 96%.
Including cucumbers in your diet can help reduce blood sugar levels, help with digestion, and assist in weight management. To get the most nutrients from cucumbers, eating them with the skin on is best. Removing the skin decreases the fibre content and removes some essential vitamins and minerals.
Incredibly hydrating
Water is essential for your body to function properly, serving many vital purposes. It plays a key role in regulating temperature and transporting nutrients and waste products. Staying well-hydrated can influence everything from your physical performance to your metabolism.
While you can fulfil most of your fluid requirements by drinking water and other beverages, it’s interesting that up to 40% of your hydration can come from your food. Fruits and vegetables are particularly great sources of water in your diet.
A study conducted in 2013 evaluated the hydration levels and dietary habits of 442 children. The results showed that a higher intake of fruits and vegetables was linked to better hydration. Cucumbers, composed of about 96% water, are especially beneficial for hydration and can help you achieve your daily fluid intake.
Cucumber’s high water content may also support weight loss efforts. A 2016 review examined 13 studies with 3,628 participants and discovered that consuming foods rich in water and low in calories was linked to a notable reduction in body weight.
Staying hydrated is vital for your overall health since water plays a key role in the body’s ability to function properly. It helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, transport nutrients to cells, and ensure that organs work efficiently. When you’re well-hydrated, you can experience better mood and cognitive performance, and it can also help ward off problems such as kidney stones, constipation, and headaches.
Boost gut health
Dehydration significantly contributes to constipation by disrupting your body’s water balance, making it harder for stool to pass. Cucumbers, being rich in water, are excellent for staying hydrated. Proper hydration enhances stool consistency, prevents constipation, and supports regular bowel movements.
Cucumbers are a good source of fibre, which aids in regulating digestion. Specifically, the soluble fibre known as pectin found in cucumbers can boost the frequency of bowel movements. A study conducted in 2014 with 80 participants who took pectin supplements revealed that it accelerated the movement of intestinal muscles while also nourishing the beneficial gut bacteria that promote digestive health.
Rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that prevent oxidation, a chemical process that produces highly reactive atoms called free radicals. The buildup of these damaging free radicals can contribute to various chronic diseases. Oxidative stress in the body caused by free radicals has been linked to conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung issues, and autoimmune disorders.
Fruits and vegetables, particularly cucumbers, are abundant in beneficial antioxidants that may help lower the risk of these health problems. A study in 2015 examined the antioxidant effects of cucumber by giving cucumber powder to 30 older adults. After 30 days, the results showed a notable increase in several indicators of antioxidant activity and an overall improvement in antioxidant levels.
Additionally, a 2010 study using test tubes explored the antioxidant qualities of cucumbers and discovered that they contain flavonoids and tannins, which are particularly effective at neutralising harmful free radicals.
How to add cucumbers to your diet
Cucumbers have a mild taste and a crisp and refreshing quality. They are often fresh or pickled, making them popular for salads and sandwiches. Many people also like to eat raw cucumbers as a low-calorie snack, and they pair beautifully with hummus, olive oil, lemon, or salad dressing for extra flavour.
Cucumbers are usually safe for most people, but always consult your doctor before making any drastic diet or lifestyle changes.