Source
Vitamin K
17.9 μg · 15% DV target
A crisp, water-dense gourd valued for its cooling culinary properties and hydrating profile, the cucumber is a foundational element of fresh salads and Mediterranean cuisine.
Cucumbers are a staple component of the Mediterranean diet, which is well-established by systematic reviews to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and support cognitive function in older adults .5
Because they are primarily composed of water, cucumbers are a low-energy-density food, providing very few calories per cup while contributing to daily hydration .4
The nutritional profile of cucumbers can vary significantly based on cultivation methods; for example, those grown in natural soil may take up a wider range of micronutrients compared to those grown in hydroponic (soil-less) systems optimized solely for yield .6
Early research indicates that cucumber juice may have a beneficial effect on blood pressure in hypertensive patients, though more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm these specific therapeutic effects .2
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
17.9 μg · 15% DV target
Store in the crisper drawer; sensitive to ethylene gas from fruits like bananas.
Outdoor grown varieties have very low impact, though hothouse production increases energy use.
Botanically classified as a fruit, the cucumber is a member of the same family as watermelons and pumpkins.