Persian Cucumber and Gut Health
Persian cucumbers are a crisp, mild fruit vegetable popular in salads and snacks. They are low in calories, contain some fiber, and are generally easy to digest. Their FODMAP content is low, making them suitable for most people with sensitive guts. However, they may cause issues for those with histamine intolerance or rare allergies.
- Low FODMAP and usually well tolerated in IBS
- Low in histamine, but may act as a histamine liberator in sensitive individuals
- Contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, supporting gut health
- High water content aids hydration and digestion
- Rarely causes allergies, but possible cross-reactions with pollen
- Peeling may improve tolerance for very sensitive guts
FODMAP Content of Persian Cucumber
Persian cucumbers are considered low in FODMAPs, making them a safe choice for people following a low-FODMAP diet or managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Typical serving sizes do not contain enough fermentable carbohydrates to trigger symptoms, so they are generally well tolerated even by those with sensitive digestion.
| FODMAPs | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Monosaccharides (Fructose)
|
Low |
|
|
Disaccharides (Lactose)
|
Low |
|
|
Fructooligosaccharides (Fructans)
|
Low |
|
|
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
|
Low |
|
|
Polyols (Mannitol)
|
Low |
|
|
Polyols (Sorbitol)
|
Low |
|
Histamine and Persian Cucumber
Persian cucumbers are naturally low in histamine, but some people with histamine intolerance may still react. This is because cucumbers can act as histamine liberators, triggering the release of histamine in sensitive individuals. If you have histamine intolerance, monitor your response when consuming Persian cucumber, especially in larger quantities.
| Histamine & Related | Level | Portion Guidance |
|---|---|---|
|
Histamine Level
|
Low |
|
|
Other Biogenic Amines
|
Low |
|
|
Histamine Liberator
|
Low | — |
|
DAO Blocker
|
Low | — |
Fiber Content and Gut Benefits
Persian cucumbers provide about 0.5 grams of fiber per 100 grams, with a mix of soluble and insoluble fibers. These fibers support gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria and promoting regular bowel movements. While the fiber content is modest, eating Persian cucumber with the skin increases its fiber contribution.
Total Fiber
Digestibility and Water Content
The high water content of Persian cucumbers makes them easy to digest and helps hydrate the digestive tract. Most people tolerate them well, but those with very sensitive guts may find the skin slightly irritating. Peeling the cucumber can improve tolerability if you experience bloating or discomfort.
Allergies and Cross-Reactivity
Allergy to Persian cucumber is rare, but possible, especially in people with pollen allergies due to cross-reactivity. Symptoms may include itching or tingling in the mouth. If you have a known allergy to melon or ragweed pollen, be cautious and monitor for any reactions when eating Persian cucumber.
Details
- Absent Wheat / Spelt
- Absent Rye
- Absent Barley
- Absent Oats
Details
- Absent Crabs
- Absent Prawns
- Absent Shrimp
- Absent Lobsters
- Absent Crayfish
Details
- Absent Almonds
- Absent Brazil Nuts
- Absent Cashews
- Absent Hazelnuts
- Absent Macadamia Nuts
- Absent Pecans
- Absent Pistachios
- Absent Walnuts
Details
- Absent Clams
- Absent Mussels
- Absent Octopus
- Absent Oysters
- Absent Snails
- Absent Squid
Preparation: With Skin or Peeled
Persian cucumbers can be eaten with or without the skin. The skin contains most of the fiber and nutrients, but may be harder to digest for some people. Peeling the cucumber can help reduce symptoms for those with sensitive digestion or during flare-ups of gut conditions.