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| - Last Updated on September 7, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that cucumber can dissolve kidney stones. We did the fact check to term this claim as False.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that cucumbers, due to their high water content, can dissolve kidney and bladder stones. The post further suggests that cucumbers can heal stomach ulcers, regulate blood pressure, and have anticancer potential.
Fact Check
Can cucumbers dissolve kidney and bladder stones?
No, cucumbers cannot dissolve kidney or bladder stones. Kidney stones are solid mineral deposits that cannot be broken down by consuming cucumbers or any other food. Cucumbers contain about 90% water which is similar to other hydrating fruits and vegetables. But, their water content only helps prevent the formation of kidney stones by keeping the body hydrated. This can possibly dilute the concentration of minerals in urine.
Drinking plenty of water is important for preventing kidney stones. However, it does not dissolve them once formed. Medical treatments such as shock wave therapy or surgical procedures are necessary for larger stones. You can also take care of your diet to reduce the chances of kidney stone formation.
We checked with Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad P, MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) and DrNB (Nephrology), Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru. He says, “In tropical countries, kidney stones are common due to the high humidity, which can lead to dehydration. There are several types of kidney stones, each forming for different reasons, such as hormone imbalances or infections. Once kidney stones develop, they are difficult to remove without medical intervention, but there are ways to reduce the risk of new stones. The treatment depends on the type of stone. There’s no evidence that cucumbers can prevent any type of kidney stone. Instead, individuals should focus on lifestyle changes like staying hydrated, reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, consuming calcium-rich foods, and avoiding high-oxalate foods. If you’re prone to uric acid stones, limiting meat, sugar, carbohydrates, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can help manage the risk.”
Can cucumbers heal stomach ulcers?
Not really. Stomach ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach. These ulcers often develop due to infections like Helicobacter pylori or the overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cucumbers may have a soothing effect due to their cooling nature, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that they can heal stomach ulcers in humans.
However, a few animal studies have explored the potential anti-ulcer properties of cucumber extracts. A 2013 study in rats showed that cucumber extract significantly reduced ulcers caused by NSAIDs, with the highest dose (400 mg/kg) lowering the ulcer index by 73%, suggesting that protective compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols in cucumbers may help reduce ulcer severity. Additionally, a 2023 study on rats confirmed cucumber’s anti-ulcer potential, demonstrating that its extracts reduced ulcers in animal models by protecting the stomach lining and lowering gastric acidity.
These findings show promise, but cucumbers cannot replace standard ulcer treatments, as of now. According to NHS UK, proper treatment for ulcers usually involves antibiotics for infections and medications to reduce stomach acid. Cucumbers alone cannot serve as a substitute for these medical treatments.
Do cucumbers regulate blood pressure?
Maybe, to some extent. Cucumbers contain potassium, which helps balance sodium levels in the body, a factor linked to maintaining healthy blood pressure. However, the effect of cucumbers alone on blood pressure regulation is minimal. This should not serve as a cure or primary treatment for high blood pressure.
The American Heart Association recommends a diet rich in fruits and vegetables for hypertension. This also includes potassium-rich foods like bananas and spinach, to help regulate blood pressure. Cucumbers can be part of this healthy diet, but they are not a standalone solution.
Do cucumbers rehydrate the body?
Yes, but only as part of a balanced hydration routine. Cucumbers contain about 90% water, making them a good hydrating snack, especially in hot weather. However, they cannot replace drinking water or fluids. Hydration is important for overall health, but it requires a combination of drinking enough water and eating water-rich foods, not just relying on cucumbers.
Can cucumbers relieve headaches?
Not specifically. The claim that cucumbers can relieve headaches lacks scientific support. Dehydration is a common cause of headaches, and because cucumbers are water-rich, they may help relieve dehydration-related headaches. However, they do not have any specific properties that target headaches beyond their water content.
For more effective relief from headaches, it is important to address the underlying cause, whether it is dehydration, stress, or other factors.
Do cucumbers promote healthy skin?
Yes, cucumbers are often used in skincare due to their high water content and cooling effect, which can soothe the skin and reduce puffiness. However, the idea that cucumbers alone can dramatically improve skin health is an overstatement. While cucumbers contain antioxidants and vitamin C, which are beneficial for the skin, other factors like a balanced diet, hydration, and skincare routines play a more significant role in maintaining healthy skin.
Can cucumbers act as an anticancer food?
Cucumbers may not directly act as an anticancer food. During our research, we found out cucumbers contain cucurbitacins, which have shown potential in laboratory studies and animal models to inhibit cancer cell growth and induce cell death. But, these studies mainly focus on concentrated forms of cucurbitacins and are conducted on cancer cell lines in controlled settings in labs. Eating cucumbers in their natural form does not provide these concentrated amounts of cucurbitacins.
Cancer development depends on multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. A healthy, balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of cancer. And, you should not rely on cucumbers alone as a treatment or prevention method. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper cancer treatment and prevention.
Dr P. Rammanohar, Research Director at Amrita School of Ayurveda in Kollam, advises against relying on a single ingredient or solution for cancer treatment. He explains that cancer is a complex group of diseases, and no single remedy works for all types. Treatment approaches vary based on the cancer type, and there is no universal cure.
Dr Pooja Khullar, a Radiation Oncologist at Dharamshila Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, stresses the need for a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention. She highlights that no single food or exercise can completely prevent cancer. Instead, prevention requires a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, reducing exposure to carcinogens, avoiding smoking and alcohol, limiting sun exposure, and keeping up with medical check-ups. Dr. Khullar advises focusing on overall health and consulting medical professionals for guidance.
THIP Media Take
The claim that cucumbers can dissolve kidney stones, heal ulcers, and offer various other health benefits is false or misleading. Cucumbers are hydrating and can be part of a healthy diet. However, they should not be considered a cure or treatment for serious medical conditions. Staying hydrated, following a balanced diet, and seeking medical advice when necessary are far more effective ways to maintain health.
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