Salad has a special significance in Indian food and cucumber is definitely included in it. Eating cucumber in summers gives freshness and keeps the body hydrated. But sometimes cucumber is bitter and knowingly or unknowingly we eat it which is harmful for our health. Today we will know in which condition eating bitter cucumber can lead to death of a person. And how should we avoid it.
why cucumber is bitter
Cucumber contains an element called cucurbitacin, which makes it bitter. This element is naturally present in cucumber, but its level can increase under certain circumstances. Let us know what causes bitter cucumber.
- Environmental stress: Extreme heat or drought can increase the amount of cucurbitin in cucumbers. This makes the cucumber bitter.
- Use of excessive fertilizer: If excess fertilizer is used in cucumber cultivation, then this bitter element can increase in cucumber.
- Choosing the wrong variety: There are some varieties of cucumbers that have a high amount of cucurbitin. Such cucumbers are more bitter.
Disadvantages of eating bitter cucumber
- Abdominal pain: Cucurbitacins can cause severe abdominal pain and cramps. This can be very uncomfortable.
- Vomiting and diarrhea: Eating bitter cucumber can cause problems like vomiting and diarrhea. This can cause dehydration in the body, which is harmful for health.
- Effects on the nervous system: Consuming cucurbitacins in large amounts can have a negative effect on the nervous system. This can lead to serious health problems.
- Death: Consuming too much cucurbitacin can cause death. Although this is very rare, it is possible.
How to avoid bitter cucumber?
- Taste it: Before eating a cucumber, cut a small piece of it and taste it. If it is bitter, do not eat it.
- Use fresh cucumber: Always use fresh and good cucumber. The amount of cucurbitacin may increase in old cucumber.
- Pay attention to growing methods: If you are growing cucumbers yourself, grow them in the right way and use the right amount of fertilizer.
- Choose a good variety: Choose a variety of cucumber that has less amount of cucurbitacin. This will reduce the risk of bitter cucumber.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
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