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Cucumbers are effective body coolants during summers. They are the perfect low-calorie snack to control hunger pangs at work or to add to your weight loss salad. But is it a good idea to have cucumbers during pregnancy? Can they have any negative impact on you or your baby? Continue reading this post to know how much cucumber is safe during pregnancy, its health benefits, and possible adverse side effects.
Key Pointers
- Cucumber offers numerous health benefits during pregnancy.
- It is a good source of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, electrolytes, minerals, and more.
- Due to its high water content and low calorie count, cucumber can aid in treating digestive problems.
- Cucumber salad, sandwiches, and soup are among the best ways to consume cucumber during pregnancy.
Is It Safe To Eat Cucumbers During Pregnancy?
You can eat small amounts of cucumber, although it is not usually recommended in the pregnancy diet. Cucumbers are known to cause allergic reaction, frequent urination due to excess water and salt content, and belching and indigestion (1). So, discuss with your healthcare provider during your prenatal care visits before adding it to your regular diet, because they can do good too.
Infographic: How To Consume Cucumber In Pregnancy?
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
How Cucumber Can Be Beneficial During Pregnancy
Cucumbers are a healthy snack for pregnant women. They possess high amounts of water, vitamins, and minerals that benefit overall health. The low fat and minimal calorie content make it ideal for weight management during pregnancy. Colorado-based dietician Staci Gulbin says, “Cucumber can be a great way to support hydration during pregnancy when fluid needs are increased to support fetal circulation, amniotic fluid, and a higher blood volume.”
1. Low-calorie food
Cucumbers are low in calories and can prevent obesity. They help in weight management and can keep you full for a longer time, and prevent excess eating, thus avoiding weight gain.
Experts say2. High water content
Cucumbers contain about 96% water (2). Consuming cucumber is a great way to maintain hydration levels (in addition to drinking water). Vegetables with high water content might also help manage pregnancy-related nausea.
3. Natural diuretic
The water content of cucumber acts as a diuretic (3), thus supporting the elimination of toxins. It also reduces swelling (4).
4. Cooling and cleansing
The cooling and cleansing property of fresh cucumber juice is helpful for skin nourishment and tightening (4).
5. B and K vitamins
Cucumber is rich in B vitamins, and vitamin K. B vitamins are known to boost your mood. They ease anxiety and might help reduce stress (5). Additionally, a cup of unpeeled cucumber provides 15-18% of daily vitamin K, vital for blood clotting and bone health (6).
6. Fiber
Cucumbers are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels (helpful for women with gestational diabetes), whereas insoluble fiber softens stools and treats constipation, which is common during pregnancy (7).
7. Essential micronutrients
Rich in antioxidants (8), including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and manganese, cucumbers help boost the immune system function and thus prevent contracting infections. Also, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, iodine, and sulfur (11) (9) are all important for fetal development and can prevent growth abnormalities.
9. Electrolytes
The availability of sodium and potassium electrolytes in cucumber juice can help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy (10).
Next, we will tell you about the nutritional facts of cucumber.
Quick factNutritional Value Of Cucumber
According to the USDA, the nutrition present in 100g of raw cucumber with peel is as follows (11):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 95.23g |
| Calories | 15kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3.63g |
| Protein | 0.65g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Fat | 0.11g |
| Sugars | 1.67g |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin C | 2.8mg |
| Thiamine (Vit B1) | 0.027mg |
| Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.033mg |
| Niacin | 0.098mg |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) | 0.03mg |
| Pantothenic acid | 0.259mg |
| Pyridoxine (Vit B6) | 0.04mg |
| Folate | 7mcg |
| Alpha-carotene | 11mcg |
| Beta-carotene | 45mcg |
| Vitamin A | 105IU |
| Vitamin K | 16.4mcg |
| Electrolytes | |
| Potassium | 147mg |
| Sodium | 2mg |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium | 16mg |
| Iron | 0.28mg |
| Magnesium | 13mg |
| Zinc | 0.2mg |
| Phosphorus | 24mg |
| Copper | 0.041mg |
| Zinc | 0.2mg |
| Manganese | 0.079mg |
| Selenium | 0.3mcg |
| Fluoride | 1.3mcg |
g=grams; mg=milligrams; mcg=micrograms; IU=international unit
Though cucumbers have a high nutritional value, they can pose some risk when taken in excess amounts.
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Cucumber During Pregnancy?
The downside of consuming cucumbers in excessive amounts include:
- Cucumbers may cause gas and indigestion, which may aggravate acid reflux, particularly in those with sensitive digestive systems (12).
- The excess water content in cucumbers will increase the frequency of urination, which could make you uncomfortable.
- Sometimes, cucumbers can cause allergic reactions, resulting in itching and swelling. If you have known pollen allergies, such as ragweed, it’s best to be cautious when consuming cucumbers (1).
- Cucumbers contain toxic substances such as cucurbitacins and tetracyclic triterpenoids, which are responsible for the bitter taste and are life-threatening when taken in excess amounts (15).
Can You Drink Cucumber Juice During Pregnancy?
Yes, you can have freshly made cucumber juice. Select firm and dark-colored cucumbers, blend them and consume.
Quick tipHow To Consume Cucumber In Pregnancy?
Consuming raw vegetables during pregnancy can be a healthy choice, but you need to wash them thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses. Consider selecting organic varieties to minimize pesticide exposure, which can be harmful during pregnancy. First, peel the cucumbers, since their skin contains toxic pesticides. Wash them at least for three to four minutes in running water and scrub them using a vegetable brush. Washington-based nutrition consultant Alicia Chacha Miller advises, “If eating cucumbers raw, wash them thoroughly to remove any contaminants. Lightly pickling them can provide a probiotic boost for gut health, while blending them into smoothies makes for a hydrating and refreshing snack. However, for those with acid reflux or sensitivities to fiber-rich foods, peeling cucumbers may help reduce discomfort.”
Katie Hlucny, registered dietician from North Dakota suggests “One of the best ways to enjoy cucumbers is as a base for nutrient-packed snacks. Slice them into rounds and top with a dollop of hummus, cottage cheese, or mashed avocado for a satisfying bite. You can also blend cucumbers with mint and a squeeze of lemon to make a cooling drink that’s great for soothing nausea.”
Here are the best ways to consume cucumbers during pregnancy:
- Salads: Combine cucumbers with tomatoes, onions or any other vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, vinegar, and pepper. You can also make a delightful salad by combining cucumbers, black olives, chopped dill, avocado, and cress. This tastes good with kosher salt, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Point to consider
- Soup: Blend sliced cucumbers, red onions, garlic clove, chopped dill, olive oil and some sour cream. Once the puree is ready, refrigerate for about one to two hours. This is an excellent soup to have on hot and long summer days.
- Sandwiches: Cut thin slices of cucumber and put in between two slices of bread along with some unsalted butter, chopped mint leaves, and sour cream cheese. These make an ideal snack to go with a cup of green or mint tea.
- Tzatziki sauce: Combine one large, sliced cucumber, three tablespoons of plain or Greek yogurt, one tablespoon of fresh mint or dill, and one minced garlic clove. Add one tablespoon of salt and three tablespoons of lemon juice. Refrigerate the mixture for five to six hours, and serve as a salad dressing.
- Homemade pickle: If you have been craving pickles during pregnancy, here is a simple recipe you can try. Take three to five cups of water, one tablespoon of sugar, one tablespoon salt and 25 cups white vinegar. Boil the mixture and let it cool. Take four cups of cucumber spears, two heads of fresh dill, and two garlic cloves in a container. Add the chilled mixture over the vegetable, cover the lid and refrigerate for two to three days before consuming.
Next, we answer a few commonly asked questions about eating cucumbers when pregnant.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is pickled cucumber safe during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat pickled cucumber but be watchful about the sodium intake. Go for home-made pickles, that too in minimal quantities.
2. Does craving cucumbers when pregnant tell something about baby’s gender?
According to old wives’ tales, craving cucumbers can indicate that you are carrying a boy. However, this has no scientific value.
3. Can I eat cucumber seeds during pregnancy?
You cannot have excess amounts of cucumber seeds since they contain a compound called cucurbitacin (15). This is toxic and might result in digestive issues in some people, especially those with a sensitive digestive system.
4. Can cucumber cause miscarriage?
Cucumbers are not known to cause miscarriage; there are no studies to show an association between them.
Nevertheless, add cucumbers to your pregnancy diet in tiny quantities. If you feel alright, you might add a few more pieces but do not over-consume.
5. Can I drink cucumber water during pregnancy?
Yes, you may drink cucumber-infused water during pregnancy. You may also add lemon juice and mint leaves to the infusion to enhance its taste.
6. Is it safe to eat cucumbers at night?
Yes, it is safe to eat cucumbers at night. Cucumbers are a healthy and low-calorie food that can be consumed at any time of day. They contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help support overall health. Eating cucumbers in moderation as part of a balanced diet is generally considered safe for most people.
7. How do I pick fresh cucumbers?
When picking fresh cucumbers, look for firm ones that have a bright and even color and are free from bruises, soft spots, and yellowing. Also, it’s best to choose cucumbers that are heavy for their size, as this is an indicator of freshness.
8. What are some healthy vegetable alternatives to cucumbers during pregnancy?
Nutrient-rich vegetables with a mild flavor, like cucumbers, include bell peppers, squash, celery, sweet potatoes, asparagus, broccoli, and leafy greens. Their crisp texture and mild taste make them ideal for similar uses in recipes, such as salads and other dishes (17).
Cucumbers are loaded with nutrition. They are high in water content, fiber and are excellent for cooling and cleansing the body. However, cucumber during pregnancy is not an ideal choice because it causes indigestion, gas, frequent urination, and allergies. That said, consuming cucumbers in small quantities will not cause any harm. Consume them after peeling and washing them properly. This reduces the toxic effects of pesticides and ensures food safety. Include them in your diet of salads, soups, and pickles. If you have any medical condition, talk to your doctor before consuming cucumbers during pregnancy.
Illustration: Excellent Health Benefits Of Cucumber During Pregnancy
Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team
References
- Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome.
https://www.rush.edu/news/pollen-food-allergy-syndrome - Cucumber: A Brief History.
https://ipm.missouri.edu/MEG/2014/3/Cucumber-A-Brief-History/ - S. Vimala, et al.; (2018); Effectiveness of Cucumber in reduction of Blood Pressure among hypertensive clients in selected Rural Area.
” https://rjptonline.org/HTMLPaper.aspx?Journal=Research%20Journal%20of%20Pharmacy%20and%20Technology;PID=2018-11-7-36″ - Pulok K Mukherjee et.; (2013); Phytochemical and therapeutic potential of cucumber.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23098877/ - Kathleen Mikkelsen et al.; (2016); The Effects of Vitamin B in Depression.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27655070/ - Cucumber: Health Benefits and Nutritional Value.
https://www.natural-cure.org/cucumber-health-benefits-and-nutritional-value/#:~:text - Constipation.
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/constipation - Are Cucumbers Good for You? Examining Their Health Benefits & Downsides.
https://foodrevolution.org/blog/cucumber-health-benefits/ - Cucumbers.
https://www.chhs.colostate.edu/fsi/food-articles/produce/cucumbers/ - Sumirah Budi Pertami et. al.; (2017); Effect Of Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) Juice On Lowering Blood Pressure In Elderly.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330442483_EFFECT_OF_CUCUMBER_CUCUMIS_SATIVUS_JUICE_ON_LOWERING_BLOOD_PRESSURE_IN_ELDERLY - Cucumber with peel raw; FDC ID: 168409.
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168409/nutrients - Tips on Controlling Gas.
https://iffgd.org/gi-disorders/symptoms-causes/intestinal-gas - How Pregnancy Can Affect Your Eyesight.
https://www.all-eyes.org/how-pregnancy-can-affect-your-eyesight-2021/ - Cucumbers.
https://ucsdcommunityhealth.org/work/eat-ca/cucumbers/ - Ujjwal Kaushik et. al.; (2015); Cucurbitacins – An insight into medicinal leads from nature.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4441156/ - Have a healthy diet in pregnancy.
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/have-a-healthy-diet/ - An Essential Guide on What to Eat During Pregnancy.
https://www.fhcsd.org/prenatal-care/what-to-eat-during-pregnancy/
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Read full bio of Jyoti Benjamin
Staci Gulbin is a registered dietitian, freelance writer, health editor, and founder of Lighttrack Nutrition. She has been a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration since 2010 and has over a decade of experience in the nutrition and dietetics industry.Staci Gulbin is a registered dietitian, freelance writer, health editor, and founder of Lighttrack Nutrition. She has been a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration since 2010 and has over a decade of experience in the nutrition and dietetics industry.
Katie Hlucny is a registered dietitian with over 2.6 years of experience in the field. She holds an MS in Human Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Wyoming and a BS in Dietetics from the University of North Dakota. In addition to her professional experience, Katie is a mom with a baby starting solids using a baby-led weaning approach.Katie Hlucny is a registered dietitian with over 2.6 years of experience in the field. She holds an MS in Human Nutrition and Food Science from the University of Wyoming and a BS in Dietetics from the University of North Dakota. In addition to her professional experience, Katie is a mom with a baby starting solids using a baby-led weaning approach.
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