Watermelon is a hydrating fruit related to summer. Since it is low in calories and will keep you hydrated and provides many nutrients that will help you maintain overall health. Health benefits of watermelon include preventing dehydration and lowering blood pressure which possibly reduces muscle soreness and potentially protects against chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s dig deeper and find out more about the health benefits of watermelon and how to incorporate it into your diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is a hydrating, micronutrient-rich fruit. A cup or about 150g of watermelon has approximately 46 calories with at least 0.6g of fiber along with 11.5g carbohydrates of which is about 9g of sugars. Although it is not a good source of protein, the benefits of eating watermelon daily contribute to a protein-rich diet with about 1 gram of protein in every serving. Also, it has 4% of each recommended Magnesium and Potassium consumption.
Interesting Facts about Watermelon:
Let’s find out some interesting facts about the watermelon:
The first watermelons are said to have appeared in South Africa 5000 years ago.
In ancient Egypt, watermelons are placed under the burial tomb as a sign of nourishment for the tomb.
Some of the varieties of watermelon require 130 summery days in order to ripen.
Is Watermelon Good for You?
Before thinking to toss the rinds in the trash, just take a second to think about the several health benefits of watermelon rinds and seeds. Since watermelon rinds have less sugar. These seeds have the types of fatty acids that will reduce bad cholesterol in your blood. You can also stir-fry the rinds with vegetables.
What are the Health Benefits of Eating Watermelon?
1) It Helps in Blood Sugar Management
Watermelon is said to have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels by regulating glucose metabolism and insulin response in the body. Moreover, this fruit is high in citrulline which is converted into arginine (amino acid) that is found to help you in protecting from diabetes.
2) It Keeps You Hydrated
This healthy and hydrated fruit has 91% of water which means that it can fulfill our body’s hydration needs. Staying hydrated will not just help with mouth dryness but it is also good for our cardiovascular health. Staying hydrated will help keep the body cool in high summers as it will help in cleansing the body and skin healthy.
3) It Aids in Weight Loss
One of the benefits of watermelon for weight loss is that it consists mostly of water and it gives you a feeling of fullness. By selecting healthy fruit such as watermelon will just help support your weight loss efforts.
4) Decreases Severity of Asthma
Watermelon is a best source of lycopene which helps in fighting oxidative stress in the body.
Since it is found in aiding reducing the effects of asthma by regulating airway muscle contraction and mucus secretion. Also, this will mean that consuming watermelon daily will help you fight some of the severe effects of asthma.
5) Reduces Dental Problems
Owing to its healthy nutrient profile, regular consumption of watermelon will help in avoiding periodontal disease. Moreover, this condition affects the gums and jaw bones which is a common dental problem characterized by tooth loss, and infection which is also linked to the risk of cardiovascular disease.
6) Fights Inflammation
The presence of chronic inflammation in the body is found to cause several diseases including cardiovascular disease, fibromyalgia, and cancer. Fighting inflammation is crucial to lower the risk of these conditions and diet has a crucial role to play in this.
7) Good for Nerve Function
Watermelon will help in regulating cognitive function. The high lycopene levels will help in reducing damage to nerve cells and will increase cognitive function. Furthermore, watermelon is high in potassium and a glass of watermelon juice will help in relieving the symptoms like tingling, muscle cramps, and numbness that are caused by low potassium.
8) Lowers Risk of Heat Strokes
Heatstroke is a major issue that is faced by several people in the summer. Sometimes this condition may also become severe and is marked by fever. It has a condition that will become severe, which will reduce heat stroke risk.
9) Helps Keep Kidneys Healthy
Watermelon consumption will help in improving kidney function and detoxing harmful toxins from the body.
10) May Help with Eye Health
Watermelons are helpful in avoiding degeneration of the eye tissues as they are high in carotenoids.
Benefits of Eating Watermelon for the Skin
The same antioxidants Vitamin A and Vitamin C will keep your skin healthy. Vitamin A stimulates the production of elastin and collagen which will keep both your skin and your hair moisturized. Without enough Vitamin A to repair your skin cells, your skin can begin to look flaky and dry. Antioxidants such as lycopene and vitamins will also help in slowing down the signs of aging caused by UV damage.
Tips for Consuming Watermelon
The trick of choosing a ripe watermelon is to search for a yellow or cream-colored splotch or ground spot, the fruit’s key sign of peak ripeness. Given the high water content, a ripe watermelon is heavy when you pick it up. Be sure to wash the watermelon before you slice it to clear any bacteria. Fresh watermelon is versatile and you can incorporate it into savory recipes. Here are some tips for enjoying watermelon includes:
- Add watermelon to a garden vegetable salad or serve over fresh greens with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Blend coconut milk and watermelon with chopped dark chocolate then pour the mixture into popsicle molds. Also, this is known as an alternative to an icy treat.
- Mix cubes of watermelon balls with other fresh fruit in a simple fruit salad that is garnished with fresh mint, freshly grated ginger, or shredded coconut.
- Combine seedless watermelon with fresh lemon juice and freeze for a slushy drink.
- Dip fresh watermelon cubes in melted dark chocolate. The two treats pair surprisingly well.
- Make a batch of watermelon salsa. Combine it with cucumber, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Skewer avocado chunks and watermelon coated with lime juice for a colorful snack served raw or grilled.
Wrapping It Up
Watermelon is a refreshing fruit that is perfect for hot summer days, thanks to its variety of health benefits. From antioxidants to cardiovascular health and improved digestive health to being good for hair and skin, watermelon is a true nutritional treasure. You can make the most of watermelon by including it in your diet, adding it to the fruit salads, and smoothies, or even using it as a base for curries. So, the next time when you crave something juicy and sweet, you can choose watermelon and enjoy the wonderful advantages it will provide to your overall well-being.
