Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cucumber vs Brown Rice: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Brown Rice is generally healthier

Brown Rice comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (2.6g vs 0.7g), more fiber (1.8g vs 0.5g), less sugar (0g vs 1.7g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Cucumber

16 kcal

More Protein

Brown Rice

2.6g

More Fiber

Brown Rice

1.8g

Less Sugar

Brown Rice

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cucumber
16
Brown Rice
111
Proteinper 100g
Cucumber
0.7g
Brown Rice
2.6g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cucumber
4g
Brown Rice
23g
Fatper 100g
Cucumber
0.1g
Brown Rice
0.9g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCucumberBrown RiceDifference
Calories16kcal111kcal-95.0kcal
Protein0.7g2.6g-1.9g
Carbohydrates4g23g-19.0g
Fat0.1g0.9g-0.8g
Fiber0.5g1.8g-1.3g
Sugar1.7g0g+1.7g
Sodium2mg5mg-3.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cucumber

Per 100g:16 calories
Per cup (150g):24 calories
Per serving (85g):14 calories

Brown Rice

Per 100g:111 calories
Per cup (150g):167 calories
Per serving (85g):94 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cucumber

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Brown Rice

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cucumber

  • Lower in calories (16 vs 111)
  • Lower in carbs (4g vs 23g)
  • Lower sodium (2mg vs 5mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Cucumber nutrition →

When to Choose Brown Rice

  • Higher in protein (2.6g vs 0.7g)
  • More fiber (1.8g vs 0.5g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 1.7g)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Brown Rice nutrition →

Cucumber vs Brown Rice: Nutritional Analysis

Brown Rice is more calorie-dense at 111 calories per 100g compared to 16 for Cucumber, a difference of 95 calories. On the protein front, Brown Rice delivers more with 2.6g per 100g versus 0.7g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Cucumber and Brown Rice tell different nutritional stories. Cucumber provides 4g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0.5g of fiber per 100g, while Brown Rice contains 23g carbs, 0.9g fat, and 1.8g fiber. The higher fiber content in Brown Rice supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Cucumber contains 1.7g while Brown Rice has 0g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Cucumber is the lower-calorie choice at 16 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Brown Rice provides more protein (2.6g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Brown Rice offers more fiber (1.8g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Cucumber or Brown Rice?

Brown Rice has more calories with 111 kcal per 100g, compared to Cucumber with 16 kcal. That's a difference of 95 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cucumber healthier than Brown Rice?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Brown Rice is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Brown Rice has 111 calories, 2.6g protein, and 1.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Cucumber and Brown Rice?

Brown Rice has more protein with 2.6g per 100g, compared to Cucumber with 0.7g. Brown Rice provides 1.9g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cucumber or Brown Rice?

For weight loss, Cucumber is the better choice with only 16 calories per 100g compared to 111 calories in Brown Rice. Brown Rice also offers 1.8g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cucumber or Brown Rice have fewer carbs?

Cucumber has fewer carbs with 4g per 100g, compared to Brown Rice with 23g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cucumber is the better option with 19.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.