Japanese Chef Sheds 11kg by Eating Cucumbers

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Japanese chef, Nozaki Hiromitsu, lost 11 kilograms in just two months by eating cucumbers before meals and chewing each bite 20 times.

Nozaki Hiromitsu is the head chef of the two-Michelin-starred restaurant "Buntokusan." He began considering weight loss after being diagnosed with fatty liver and high cholesterol during a health check in 2011. The idea of "cucumber weight loss" came to him shortly after.

Hailing from Fukushima, a renowned cucumber-growing region, Nozaki often ate raw cucumbers from a young age. He recalled that this habit helped curb his appetite and prevented snacking. Since then, he started eating cucumbers when hungry, even replacing breakfast and dinner with them.

"As a result, I lost 11 kilograms in two months, urinated more frequently, and my stomach became smaller. It's been almost 5 years since I started this method, and I haven't gained any weight back," he shared.

Based on his personal experience, Nozaki has shared the "cucumber weight loss" method with those aiming to lose weight. The method is very simple: just follow two rules: eat one to two cucumbers before each meal and chew each bite at least 20 times. Additionally, people can still eat regular meals with healthy foods and combine it with exercise for desired results.

He documented the method in his book "Kyuuri Taberu dake Diet" (Cucumber Only Diet), sharing his experiences and recipes for this familiar and easy-to-buy vegetable.

In fact, many people want to lose weight but are afraid of strict diets. The "cucumber weight loss" method could be the answer, allowing them to eat normally while still achieving their desired weight.

Nozaki's eating habits have been adopted by many celebrities. On TBS's "Ashita wa Wagamama Meeting Special" program, female soccer player Maruyama Karina revealed she successfully lost 6.6 kg and 7.5 cm in waist circumference after three weeks of following the method. Former Morning Musume member, Fukuda Asuka, also tried it and achieved positive results. She shared her weight loss journey on Nippon TV's "Tokusuru Hito, Sonsuru Hito" program.

Why do cucumbers help with weight loss?

Cucumbers contain enzymes that can promote fat metabolism. Since enzymes are heat-sensitive, eating raw cucumbers helps absorb the enzymes more effectively. Additionally, cucumbers are rich in potassium, which has diuretic properties and regulates blood pressure. Frequent urination reduces water retention and swelling.

Cucumbers are low in calories. Each 104-gram serving contains 16 calories, and a 300-gram cucumber contains 45 calories. The vegetable is suitable for raw consumption, salads, sandwiches, and as a side dish. Cucumbers can be a good substitute for higher-calorie foods.

The fiber in cucumbers can regulate the intestinal environment, prevent constipation, and inhibit the rapid increase of blood sugar or cholesterol levels.

Cucumbers also contain vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are good for blood vessels, mucous membranes, and skin, and can prevent dry skin even during weight loss.

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