Japanese chef sheds 11 kg in two months with cucumber diet

Japanese chef Nozaki Hiromitsu. Photo from Nozaki's Instagram

Nozaki, the executive chef at the Michelin two-star restaurant Buntokuyama, advocates for the "cucumber weight loss" method, which consists of two simple rules: eat one to two cucumbers before every meal and chew each bite at least 20 times. This strategy allows individuals to still enjoy their regular meals, provided they consist of healthy foods, and to enhance results through exercise.

A native of Fukushima, a prefecture in northeastern Japan renowned for its cucumbers, Nozaki grew up eating raw cucumbers, which he credits with helping him control his appetite and minimize snacking.

The idea of using cucumbers specifically for weight loss came to Nozaki after a medical check-up in 2011 revealed he had fatty liver disease and high cholesterol, prompting him to develop his weight loss strategy. Adopting this approach, Nozaki began substituting cucumbers for meals whenever he felt hungry, sometimes even replacing breakfast and dinner with them.

"As a result, I lost 11 kg in two months, urinated more frequently, and my belly shrunk," he explained, adding that he has maintained his weight loss for nearly five years now and has not regained the weight.

He has documented this method in his book "Kyuuri Taberu dake Diet" (The Cucumber-Only Diet), sharing both his personal experiences and various cucumber recipes.

Many people are reluctant to try strict dieting to lose weight, and Nozaki’s "cucumber weight loss" method offers a viable alternative, enabling individuals to continue eating normally while still achieving their weight loss goals.

Maruyama Karina, a female soccer player, revealed she lost 6.6 kg and trimmed 7.5 cm from her waistline after three weeks following the method. Former Morning Musume member Fukuda Asuka also tried it, experiencing positive results.

Cucumbers aid weight loss because they contain enzymes that promote fat metabolism. These enzymes are heat-sensitive, making raw cucumbers the ideal form for consumption. Furthermore, cucumbers are a rich source of potassium, which acts as a diuretic to help regulate blood pressure and reduce water retention and swelling.

Incorporating cucumbers into your daily diet may aid in weight loss. Illustration photo by Pixabay

At only 45 calories per 300-gram cucumber, they are perfect for eating raw, making salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish, and they can replace higher-calorie foods.

The fiber content in cucumbers helps regulate gut health, prevent constipation, and inhibit rapid spikes in blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Cucumbers also contain vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are beneficial for blood vessels, mucous membranes, and skin health. They can even help prevent dry skin while dieting.