Foodstruct Nutrition Search | Diet Analysis | Food Comparison | Glycemic Index Chart | Insulin Index Chart | Blog | Subscribe | Sign Up

Tomato vs. Cucumber — Health Impact and Nutrition Comparison

Compare
Article author photo Erna Harutyunyan by Erna Harutyunyan | Last updated on November 13, 2023
Medically reviewed by Elen Khachatrian Article author photo Elen Khachatrian
Tomato
vs
Cucumber

Summary

Cucumbers are richer in vitamin K, containing 16.4 g, approximately twice the amount found in tomatoes, which contain 7.9 g. However, tomato surpasses cucumber in vitamin C content, making it 12% higher in daily vitamin C coverage. Tomatoes are slightly richer in calories and almost as rich in fiber

Introduction

Tomatoes and cucumbers are common and well-known foods. We'll review the key distinctions and similarities between cucumbers and tomatoes, emphasizing their effects on health and nutrition.

Classification

While tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a fruit native to South America, cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a member of the Cucumis genus. Both are typically consumed and served like vegetables, even though they are technically fruits.

Appearance

While green cucumbers are the most prevalent, cucumbers can also be found in whiteyellow, and orange varieties, typically distinguished by their varying skin colors. In contrast, tomatoes, usually red when ripe, showcase a wide spectrum of colors, including yelloworangegreen, and purple

Taste and Use

Tomatoes are frequently used to add a burst of rich flavor and a hint of acidity. They are also commonly used as a main ingredient in pizzas, salsas, and pasta meals. On the other hand, because of their crispchilly texture and somewhat pleasant flavor, cucumbers are frequently used in saladssandwiches, and pickles. In addition, cucumbers are utilized in various appetizers and cool drinks like cucumber-infused water or cocktails

Varieties

Cucumbers are available in various types, including the English cucumber, Persian cucumber, Kirby cucumber, lemon cucumber, Armenian cucumber, and sliced cucumber. On the other hand, the tomato family boasts an array of varieties, such as beefsteak tomatoRoma tomatocherry tomatogrape tomatoheirloom tomato, and plum tomato. These diverse types offer unique flavors, textures, and uses, making them versatile options for various culinary creations.

Nutrition

This article presents the nutritional values of raw tomatoes and raw cucumbers.

Macronutrients and Calories

Although neither of these foods is especially high in macronutrients, potatoes provide more protein than cucumbers. Both veggies contain small levels of essential amino acids. Additionally, they include a deficient fat level. They are not present in trans fats or cholesterol. The carbohydrate content of tomatoes and cucumbers is equal; each has about 3.89 grams of carbs. They both contain roughly 94.52% water, which is another similarity between them.

Macronutrient Comparison

Macronutrient breakdown side-by-side comparison
Contains more Protein +35.4%
Contains more Fats +81.8%
Contains more Other +34.2%
Equal in Carbs - 3.63
Equal in Water - 95.23
4% 95%
Protein: 0.88 g
Fats: 0.2 g
Carbs: 3.89 g
Water: 94.52 g
Other: 0.51 g
4% 95%
Protein: 0.65 g
Fats: 0.11 g
Carbs: 3.63 g
Water: 95.23 g
Other: 0.38 g
Contains more Protein +35.4%
Contains more Fats +81.8%
Contains more Other +34.2%
Equal in Carbs - 3.63
Equal in Water - 95.23

Calories

Cucumbers and tomatoes are low in calories. Cucumbers with peels give 15 calories per 100g serving; cucumbers without peels only have 10 calories. A serving of tomato containing 100 grams has 18 calories.

Vitamins

Cucumbers contain significantly more vitamin K than tomatoes, with 16.4 g in cucumbers compared to 7.9 g in tomatoes. On the other hand, tomatoes are notably richer in vitamin Awith 833 IU compared to 105 IU in cucumbers. 

Tomatoes also provide more Vitamin ARAEVitamin EVitamin CVitamin B1Vitamin B3, and Vitamin B6 compared to cucumbers. However, cucumbers have a higher content of vitamin B2 and vitamin B5 when compared to tomatoes. Additionally, tomatoes contain more folate than cucumbers. 

Vitamin Comparison

Vitamin comparison score is based on the number of vitamins by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Tomato
7
:
Contains more Vitamin A +693.3%
Contains more Vitamin E +1700%
Contains more Vitamin C +389.3%
Contains more Vitamin B1 +37%
Contains more Vitamin B3 +506.1%
Contains more Vitamin B6 +100%
Contains more Folate +114.3%
Contains more Vitamin B2 +73.7%
Contains more Vitamin B5 +191%
Contains more Vitamin K +107.6%
Vitamin A Vitamin E Vitamin D Vitamin C Vitamin B1 Vitamin B2 Vitamin B3 Vitamin B5 Vitamin B6 Folate Vitamin B12 Vitamin K 50% 11% 0% 46% 10% 5% 12% 6% 19% 12% 0% 20%
Vitamin A Vitamin E Vitamin D Vitamin C Vitamin B1 Vitamin B2 Vitamin B3 Vitamin B5 Vitamin B6 Folate Vitamin B12 Vitamin K 7% 1% 0% 10% 7% 8% 2% 16% 10% 6% 0% 41%
Contains more Vitamin A +693.3%
Contains more Vitamin E +1700%
Contains more Vitamin C +389.3%
Contains more Vitamin B1 +37%
Contains more Vitamin B3 +506.1%
Contains more Vitamin B6 +100%
Contains more Folate +114.3%
Contains more Vitamin B2 +73.7%
Contains more Vitamin B5 +191%
Contains more Vitamin K +107.6%

Minerals

Cucumber contains more calcium and sodium compared to tomatoes. Selenium content was not detected in tomatoes, while cucumber contains a minimal amount of 0.3µg. On the other hand, tomatoes contain higher levels of potassium (237mg). Cucumbers and tomatoes are equal in ironphosphoruszinc, magnesium, and copper.

Mineral Comparison

Mineral comparison score is based on the number of minerals by which one or the other food is richer. The "coverage" charts below show how much of the daily needs can be covered by 300 grams of the food.
Contains more Potassium +61.2%
Contains more Copper +43.9%
Contains more Manganese +44.3%
Contains more Calcium +60%
Contains more Magnesium +18.2%
Contains less Sodium -60%
Contains more Zinc +17.6%
Contains more Selenium +∞%
Equal in Iron - 0.28
Equal in Phosphorus - 24
Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Zinc Copper Manganese Selenium 3% 11% 8% 11% 21% 1% 5% 20% 15% 0%
Calcium Iron Magnesium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Zinc Copper Manganese Selenium 5% 11% 10% 11% 13% 1% 6% 14% 11% 2%
Contains more Potassium +61.2%
Contains more Copper +43.9%
Contains more Manganese +44.3%
Contains more Calcium +60%
Contains more Magnesium +18.2%
Contains less Sodium -60%
Contains more Zinc +17.6%
Contains more Selenium +∞%
Equal in Iron - 0.28
Equal in Phosphorus - 24

Fiber

Tomatoes contain a higher fiber content, providing 1.2 grams compared to the 0.5 grams found in cucumber.

Glycemic Index

Tomatoes and cucumbers are low-GI, diabetes-friendly foods. The glycemic index of a tomato is 23, and the glycemic index of a cucumber is 21.

Acidity

Vegetables are both acidic. Cucumbers range in pH from 5.12 to 5.78. Cucumber pickles range in pH from 4.20 to 4.60. Tomatoes range in pH from 4.3 to 4.9. Cucumber has a potential renal acid load value of -2.4, while tomato has a higher alkaline PRAL value of -4.1. These foods are base-producing due to their negative PRAL ratings.

Weight Loss and Diets

Both cucumber and tomato are relatively low in carbs and can be included in Keto and Atkins diets. Cucumbers and tomatoes are suggested during the Mediterranean diet, which is based on traditional cuisine from GreeceItaly, and other Mediterranean Sea countries. Tomatoes and cucumbers are excellent choices for the Paleo diet. Additionally, both work well with vegetarianvegan, and pescatarian diets. Both cucumbers and tomatoes are recommended in the Dukan diet, particularly during the cruise phase. Cucumbers and tomatoes are naturally low in fat and calories, making them suitable for low-fat and low-calorie diets. Tomatoes' antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties make them a good choice for anti-inflammatory diets. Cucumbers also have anti-inflammatory potential. Cucumbers can be suitable for the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) due to their mildness and digestibility. Tomatoes may not be recommended due to their acidity.

Health Benefits

Cardiovascular Health

Both tomatoes and cucumbers offer various health benefits, particularly those related to heart health. Rich in lycopene and beta-carotene, tomatoes have reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes (1, 2). Clinical trials have indicated that lycopene supplementation might help lower LDL (harmful) cholesterol levels. At the same time, tomato products have displayed anti-inflammatory properties and protection of blood vessels, potentially decreasing the risk of blood clotting (3, 4, 5). Conversely, cucumbers have been linked to lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure, likely due to their diuretic effect, which reduces the heart's workload (6, 7)Their consumption may also lead to decreased levels of 'bad' cholesterol and triglycerides, potentially preventing or slowing down the development of atherosclerosis, a primary cause of severe cardiovascular diseases (8, 9). Additionally, cucumbers contain cucurbitacin I and B, which may offer protection against cardiac hypertrophy and oxidative stress. However, some studies suggest a potential risk of cardiac hypertrophy and cardiac cell death from cucurbitacin I (10, 11, 12, 13). 

Diabetes

Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is linked to a reduced risk of obesity and diabetes due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, lycopene has shown efficacy in managing diabetic neuropathynephropathy, and other related complications (14). On the other hand, cucumbers, known for their low glycemic index and dietary fiber content, are often included in weight-loss diets. Their low glycemic index values contribute to a decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes or the need for medication (15). Studies have revealed that cucumbers contain active components with anti-diabeticanti-hyperglycemic, and hypoglycemic effects, suggesting their potential use in treating and managing diabetes mellitus (16, 17, 18). Furthermore, cucumber extracts have demonstrated the ability to protect the liver and pancreas from the detrimental effects of diabetes (19). 

  Cancer

Cucumbers have been found to possess anticancer effects that can aid in preventing and treating cancerCucurbitacins present in cucumbers have the potential to impede the development of tumor cells and signaling pathways, leading to the death of cancer cells. Various groups of cucurbitacins have exhibited antitumor activity against various cancers, including lungpancreaticcolonbreastliver, and cervical cancers (20, 21, 22, 23). In contrast, observational studies have indicated a connection between tomatoes and tomato products and reduced prostate, lung, and stomach cancer incidence (24, 25). While the high lycopene content in tomatoes is considered responsible for these benefits, further high-quality human research is required to confirm the causal link (26, 27). Additionally, a study in women has suggested that high concentrations of carotenoids found abundantly in tomatoes may offer protection against breast cancer (28, 29)

Skin Health 

Cucumbers are crucial in maintaining hydrated and healthy skin due to their polysaccharide content, which helps retain skin elasticity and firmness

Cucumbers, with a water content of around 96%, provide great hydrationreducing dryness and flakiness, which can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles (30). Tomatoes, on the other hand, are known for their skin-health benefits. Tomato-based diets, which are high in lycopene and other plant chemicals, have been linked to sunburn protection (31, 32). 

Notably, research indicates that individuals consuming tomato paste with olive oil daily experienced 40% fewer sunburns, highlighting the potential skin benefits of tomatoes and their derivatives (33).  

Downsides and Risks

Cucumbers and tomatoes have the potential to trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. Cucurbit allergy, also known as oral allergy syndrome, can lead to various symptoms, including itchingburningredness, and swelling of the lipsmouthtongue, and soft palate. Additionally, it may cause nauseadiarrheaasthma, rhinitiswatery eyes, or contact urticaria (34, 35)Individuals allergic to aspirin containing salicylate may need to avoid cucumberstomatoes, and other foods such as applesalmondsoranges, and berries (36)While tomato allergies are rare, people allergic to grass pollen may experience allergic reactions to tomatoes due to pollen-food allergy syndrome or oral allergy syndrome (37, 38). Individuals with latex allergies might also experience cross-reactivity to tomatoes (39). 

Sources

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22158914/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23045517/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22965217/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16569044
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16929242/
  6. http://perpustakaan.poltekkes-malang.ac.id/assets/
  7. https://www.banglajol.info/index.php/
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/
  9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16407729/
  10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29682157/
  11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26296085/
  12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28390176/
  13. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27836799/
  14. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/ 
  15.  https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/
  16. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33966619/
  17. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8569244/
  18. https://academicjournals.org/journal/
  19. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33214339/
  20. https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/
  21. https://www.nature.com/articles/srep36594
  22. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/
  23. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
  24. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10050865/
  25. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12424325/
  26.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23883692/ 
  27. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ 
  28. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12010859/
  29. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22760559/
  30. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23098877/
  31. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16465309/
  32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15830922/
  33.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11340098/
  34. https://www.sciencedirect.com/sdfe/pdf/download/eid/1-s2.0-S2213219821011053/first-page-pdf
  35. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/allergolint/64/1/64_S1323-8930-14-00013-6/_article/-char/ja/ 
  36. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1805260/pdf/bullnyacadmed00102-0098.pdf
  37. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20306812/ 
  38. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7943997/
  39. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12440950/
Article author photo Erna Harutyunyan
Education: General Medicine at YSMU
Last updated: November 13, 2023
Medically reviewed by Elen Khachatrian

Infographic

Tomato vs Cucumber infographic
Infographic link

Fat Type Comparison

Fat type breakdown side-by-side comparison
Contains less Saturated Fat -24.3%
Contains more Monounsaturated Fat +520%
Contains more Polyunsaturated fat +159.4%
20% 22% 58%
Saturated Fat: 0.028 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.031 g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.083 g
50% 7% 43%
Saturated Fat: 0.037 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.005 g
Polyunsaturated fat: 0.032 g
Contains less Saturated Fat -24.3%
Contains more Monounsaturated Fat +520%
Contains more Polyunsaturated fat +159.4%

Carbohydrate type comparison

Carbohydrate type breakdown side-by-side comparison
Contains more Glucose +64.5%
Contains more Fructose +57.5%
Contains more Starch +∞%
Contains more Sucrose +∞%
Contains more Maltose +∞%
48% 52%
Starch: 0 g
Sucrose: 0 g
Glucose: 1.25 g
Fructose: 1.37 g
Lactose: 0 g
Maltose: 0 g
Galactose: 0 g
33% 30% 35%
Starch: 0.83 g
Sucrose: 0.03 g
Glucose: 0.76 g
Fructose: 0.87 g
Lactose: 0 g
Maltose: 0.01 g
Galactose: 0 g
Contains more Glucose +64.5%
Contains more Fructose +57.5%
Contains more Starch +∞%
Contains more Sucrose +∞%
Contains more Maltose +∞%

Comparison summary table

Pay attention to the rightmost column. It displays the amounts side by side, giving a clearer understanding of the difference.
Tomato Cucumber
Lower in Saturated Fat ok
Rich in vitamins ok
Lower in Sugar ok
Lower in Sodium ok
Lower in Glycemic Index ok
Lower in Cholesterol Equal
Lower in price Equal
Rich in minerals Equal

All nutrients comparison - raw data values

Nutrient Tomato Cucumber Opinion
Net carbs 2.69g 3.13g Cucumber
Protein 0.88g 0.65g Tomato
Fats 0.2g 0.11g Tomato
Carbs 3.89g 3.63g Tomato
Calories 18kcal 15kcal Tomato
Starch 0g 0.83g Cucumber
Fructose 1.37g 0.87g Tomato
Sugar 2.63g 1.67g Cucumber
Fiber 1.2g 0.5g Tomato
Calcium 10mg 16mg Cucumber
Iron 0.27mg 0.28mg Cucumber
Magnesium 11mg 13mg Cucumber
Phosphorus 24mg 24mg
Potassium 237mg 147mg Tomato
Sodium 5mg 2mg Cucumber
Zinc 0.17mg 0.2mg Cucumber
Copper 0.059mg 0.041mg Tomato
Manganese 0.114mg 0.079mg Tomato
Selenium 0µg 0.3µg Cucumber
Vitamin A 833IU 105IU Tomato
Vitamin A RAE 42µg 5µg Tomato
Vitamin E 0.54mg 0.03mg Tomato
Vitamin C 13.7mg 2.8mg Tomato
Vitamin B1 0.037mg 0.027mg Tomato
Vitamin B2 0.019mg 0.033mg Cucumber
Vitamin B3 0.594mg 0.098mg Tomato
Vitamin B5 0.089mg 0.259mg Cucumber
Vitamin B6 0.08mg 0.04mg Tomato
Folate 15µg 7µg Tomato
Vitamin K 7.9µg 16.4µg Cucumber
Tryptophan 0.006mg 0.005mg Tomato
Threonine 0.027mg 0.019mg Tomato
Isoleucine 0.018mg 0.021mg Cucumber
Leucine 0.025mg 0.029mg Cucumber
Lysine 0.027mg 0.029mg Cucumber
Methionine 0.006mg 0.006mg
Phenylalanine 0.027mg 0.019mg Tomato
Valine 0.018mg 0.022mg Cucumber
Histidine 0.014mg 0.01mg Tomato
Saturated Fat 0.028g 0.037g Tomato
Monounsaturated Fat 0.031g 0.005g Tomato
Polyunsaturated fat 0.083g 0.032g Tomato

Which food is preferable for your diet?

ok
ok
is better in case of low diet
Tomato Cucumber
Low Fats diet ok
Low Carbs diet ok
Low Calories diet ok
Low Glycemic Index diet ok

People also compare

Vitamins & Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score

The summary scores indicate the extent to which this food can fulfill your daily vitamin and mineral requirements if you consume 3 servings, consisting of 100 grams of each (an approximation of 3 serving sizes).
Vitamins Daily Need Coverage Score
16%
Tomato
9%
Cucumber
Minerals Daily Need Coverage Score
9%
Tomato
8%
Cucumber

Comparison summary

Which food is lower in Saturated Fat?
Tomato
Tomato is lower in Saturated Fat (difference - 0.009g)
Which food is richer in vitamins?
Tomato
Tomato is relatively richer in vitamins
Which food is lower in Sugar?
Cucumber
Cucumber is lower in Sugar (difference - 0.96g)
Which food contains less Sodium?
Cucumber
Cucumber contains less Sodium (difference - 3mg)
Which food is lower in glycemic index?
Cucumber
Cucumber is lower in glycemic index (difference - 2)
Which food contains less Cholesterol?
?
The foods are relatively equal in Cholesterol (0 mg)
Which food is cheaper?
?
The foods are relatively equal in price ($0.4)
Which food is richer in minerals?
?
It cannot be stated which food is richer in vitamins. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information. See the charts below for detailed information.

References

All the values for which the sources are not specified explicitly are taken from FDA’s Food Central. The exact link to the food presented on this page can be found below.

  1. Tomato - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170457/nutrients
  2. Cucumber - https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168409/nutrients

All the Daily Values are presented for males aged 31-50, for 2000-calorie diets.

Data provided by FoodStruct.com should be considered and used as information only. Please consult your physician before beginning any diet.