Stephen Fry has revealed his favourite food, which is as beneficial as drinking a glass of water. The beloved BBC QI presenter discussed his love for the low-calorie, antioxidant-rich food on Waitrose’s Dish podcast, hosted by Radio 1’s Nick Grimshaw and Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett.

He confessed that he never regrets indulging in it. During the episode, Angela asked: “We hear you love cucumbers?” To which Stephen responded: “Cucumbers are probably my favourite.”

The chef expressed surprise, saying: “I mean, I’ve never heard anyone love them so much.” The TV legend then said: “Fruit? I think they’re a fruit, technically, aren’t they?” Angela agreed.

“I know, they hardly taste of anything,” he continued. “It’s just the texture, the crisp, watery texture.” Nick added: “You never regret a cucumber.” Stephen replied: “You don’t.” The Radio 1 host added: “You’re never like, ‘Oh, I’ve overate the cucumber.’ Do you know what I mean? It’s always an enjoyable little snack.”

Despite often being mistaken for vegetables, cucumbers are technically fruits due to their seed content. They are incredibly hydrating, containing up to 96% water, reports Surrey Live.

Incorporating cucumbers into your diet can help reduce blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and manage weight. For maximum nutritional benefit, it’s best to consume them with their skin intact. Peeling them reduces their fibre content and eliminates some vital vitamins and minerals.

Water is crucial for the body’s optimal functioning, playing a pivotal role in temperature regulation and the transportation of nutrients and waste. Good hydration can impact everything from your physical performance to your metabolism. Up to 40% of your hydration needs can be met through food, with fruits and vegetables being particularly rich water sources.

A 2013 study analysing the hydration levels and dietary habits of 442 children found that increased fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with improved hydration. Cucumbers, which are about 96% water, are especially beneficial for hydration and can contribute significantly to your daily fluid intake.

The high water content of cucumbers may also aid weight loss efforts. A 2016 review of 13 studies involving 3,628 participants found that eating foods high in water and low in calories was linked to a significant decrease in body weight.

Keeping hydrated is crucial for overall well-being, as water is instrumental in maintaining the body’s functionality. It aids in regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, delivering nutrients to cells, and ensuring organs operate effectively. Adequate hydration can enhance mood and cognitive performance, and also help prevent issues such as kidney stones, constipation, and headaches.

Dehydration can significantly contribute to constipation by disrupting your body’s water balance, making it more difficult for stool to pass. Cucumbers, with their high water content, are excellent for maintaining hydration. Proper hydration improves stool consistency, prevents constipation, and supports regular bowel movements.

Cucumbers are a rich source of fibre, which helps regulate digestion. In particular, the soluble fibre known as pectin found in cucumbers can increase the frequency of bowel movements. A 2014 study involving 80 participants who took pectin supplements found that it sped up the movement of intestinal muscles while also nourishing the beneficial gut bacteria that promote digestive health.

Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation, a chemical reaction that produces harmful free radicals. The accumulation of these destructive free radicals can lead to various chronic diseases. Oxidative stress in the body, caused by free radicals, has been associated with conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung problems, and autoimmune disorders.

Fruits and vegetables, especially cucumbers, are rich in beneficial antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of these health issues. A 2015 study investigated the antioxidant effects of cucumber by administering cucumber powder to 30 elderly adults. After 30 days, there was a significant increase in several markers of antioxidant activity and an overall enhancement in antioxidant levels.

A 2010 test-tube study examined the antioxidant properties of cucumbers and found they contain flavonoids and tannins, which are particularly effective at neutralising harmful free radicals.

Cucumbers have a mild flavour and a crisp, refreshing texture. They’re often eaten fresh or pickled, making them a favourite addition to salads and sandwiches. Many also enjoy munching on raw cucumbers as a low-calorie snack, pairing them with hummus, olive oil, lemon, or salad dressing for added taste. Cucumbers are generally safe for most people, but it’s always wise to consult your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Stephen says he enjoys eating cucumbers with mayonnaise, admitting he sometimes makes his own at home. He told Nick: “I find if, as sometimes happens, I wake up at three in the morning. Can’t go back to sleep. You know, that ‘tossy and turny’ feeling. I go down and I start to make mayonnaise.”

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