Cucumbers contain about 95-96% water, low carbohydrates and a very low glycemic index (GI).
According to nutrition experts, foods with low GI often raise blood sugar more slowly after eating, thereby helping to limit blood glucose fluctuations.
A nutritional analysis published on Livestrong shows that cucumbers have a GI of about 15 - which is very low, so it is suitable in the diet of people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
Not only has a low GI, cucumbers also contain fiber, vitamin C, potassium and plant compounds with biological activity.
This is a low-calorie drink but creates a relatively good feeling of fullness thanks to the high amount of water. This helps limit the consumption of sugary soft drinks or high-energy drinks - factors related to the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Cucumbers also contain antioxidants such as flavonoids and tannins. According to modern studies, oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms contributing to insulin resistance and blood vessel damage in people with diabetes.
Supplementing with foods rich in antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and improve the metabolic environment in the body.
Cucumber juice can be used as part of a blood sugar control diet. A simple recipe includes:
1 fresh cucumber
1/2 small lemon
A few mint leaves
150 ml of water.
You can press or grind it, drink it without adding sugar. The combination of lemon and peppermint helps enhance the flavor without increasing the sugar load.
However, medical experts note that vegetable juice should not completely replace pure vegetables. When juiced, a portion of fiber is lost, while fiber is an important factor in stabilizing blood sugar. Therefore, if possible, you should prioritize smoothies or eat cucumbers directly to retain more fiber.
Another important point is that effective blood sugar control needs to be based on a balanced diet, physical activity, maintaining a reasonable weight and complying with medical treatment when necessary.
