Short Answer: It is generally safe to eat bitter gourd and cucumber together or one after another. Because there is no scientific proof that they can cause any harm to your health.
Bitter gourd and cucumber both are healthy vegetables.
Bitter gourd contains vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, potassium, zinc, iron, and several antioxidants and bioactive compounds.
Cucumber has vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and water.
According to Ayurveda, bitter gourd and cucumber are not compatible because they have opposite qualities.
Bitter gourd is heating, pungent, and bitter, while cucumber is cooling, sweet, and moist.
Eating them together can cause indigestion, gas, bloating, and imbalance of the doshas.
But according to science, there is no evidence that eating bitter gourd and cucumber together can harm your health.
In fact, some studies suggest that bitter gourd may help lower blood sugar levels and improve diabetes management.
Cucumber may also have benefits for hydration, skin health, and weight loss.
As a nutritionist, my advice is to try first.
If after eating bitter gourd and cucumber together you experience any digestive discomfort, then stop combining them.
And if you can tolerate, then continue.
However, you should be mindful of the quality and quantity of bitter gourd and cucumber you consume.
Because bitter gourd may have some side effects such as hypoglycemia, stomach irritation, and liver damage if consumed in excess or with certain medications.
Cucumber may also cause allergic reactions, oral allergy syndrome, or belching in some people.
Whether you eat them together or not, you should always choose fresh, organic, and firm bitter gourd and cucumber.
Because they may have more nutrients, less pesticides, and better taste than wilted, sprayed, or soft ones.
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped in a paper towel or a plastic bag.
Do not store them in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or with ethylene-producing fruits like bananas or apples.
Finally, remember, bitter gourd and cucumber are nutritious vegetables that can be enjoyed in various ways.
You can cook bitter gourd as a curry, stir-fry, soup, or pickle, or drink its juice as a herbal remedy.
You can eat cucumber raw as a salad, snack, or smoothie, or make it into a raita, tzatziki, or gazpacho.
However, moderation is the key, and you should always consult your doctor before making any dietary changes, especially if you have any medical conditions or take any medications.