Fun fact: The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt
Introduction
Aside from the cold refreshing water, there’s another food that does the same power with the same excellent nutritional profile as water, but definitely more juicy and delicious.
The watermelons are grown across the tropical and subtropical countries. They are big hit in summer to beat the scorching heat. This is true because watermelon is rich in water so you get hydrated. Unlike water, watermelon has electrolytes, which affects the amount of water in the body. And because electrolytes are eliminated when you sweat, watermelon as a rich source of electrolytes helps in replenishing your body with the same.
This fruit is a healthy choice especially when it only has 30 calories for every 100 grams. It is also very low in terms of fat.
Watermelon is also an excellent source of vitamins A, B6 and C. Vitamin A (11%DV) improves immunity against diseases and at the same time improves vision. Vitamin B6 aids in the production of antibodies to fight illnesses. They also play a vital role in the formation of red blood cells and to ensure the normal function of the nerves. Vitamin C at 13% DV likewise strengthens one’s immunity system from viruses.
Per 100 grams of watermelon contains 3% of the daily value of potassium, an essential nutrient to control heart rate and blood pressure. And since potassium is important for water balance in the cell, it is a good remedy for muscle cramps. It also has magnesium to guard the immune system and to keep the normal function of nerves and muscles. Watermelon is also packed with 1% DV of protein and iron. The protein ensures that your bones are strong, while iron advances normal functioning of the cell, boost metabolism, and supports growth.
Researchers have also found out that watermelons have more lycopene than the red tomatoes. One hundred grams of watermelon contain 4532 µg lycopene, higher than the 2573 µg lycopene in tomatoes. The lycopene found in the watermelon protects the skin from the UV rays. Lycopene, along with other antioxidants like lutein and beta-carotene protect your cells and body from oxygen-free radicals.
Aside from the red portion of the watermelon, it has also other parts that are rich with nutrients. The watermelon seeds provide iron and zinc. And while watermelon has relatively lower daily value of dietary fiber per 100 grams, one can still acquire more fiber by consuming larger amount of this fruit. But not to worry because even if you consume more, it would still cost low count of calories.
The Health Benefits of Watermelons
Watermelon is one of the world’s most favorite fruits. This fruit has a sweet and very refreshing taste. Aside from it being delicious, it is also highly nutritious. It has high water, mineral, and vitamin content. It is composed about 92% of water and is also very high in Lycopene. In fact, it is told to be the “Lycopene King” beating tomatoes aside. This fruit is rich in vitamins C, B6, and A. It also has high level of amino acid and antioxidant content. This fruit is very popular to those who wish to lose weight because it is very low in calories and sodium. It is also a nutritious substitute to water. If you want a healthy and more interesting water substitute, you can never go wrong with watermelon. You will be surprised with the various amazing health benefits of this fruit.
Optimizes Heart Condition
Because of the high lycopene content of watermelon, regular intake will protect and preserve a healthy heart condition. Lycopene effectively frees the body’s cells from damage. Aside from lycopene, watermelon also has arginine and citrulline that are good for the health of the heart. Arginine and citrulline regulate proper blood flow and prevents irregular fat accumulation.
Promotes Weight Loss
As mentioned above, watermelon has arginine and citrulline which are amino acids that reduce excess fat accumulation. These amino acids retain the regular fat composition of the body. Plus watermelon also has low fat content. It reduces chances of obesity and all various disease and illnesses that come with it. This fruit will make a tasty and healthy everyday snack.
Treats Sore Muscles
Eating watermelon is very beneficial especially to those who highly engage in sports and other types of physical activities. This fruit is rich in amino acids called L-citrulline that effectively relaxes blood vessels at the same time regulates proper blood circulation. If you are into sports and intense workout routines, eating watermelon or drinking watermelon juice before and after work will help you prevent or treat muscle soreness. Watermelon also helps in stabilizing heart rate.
Improves Digestion
Because watermelon is mostly water and has significant level of fiber content, it encourages proper digestion. Its properties clear up your digestion track for normal digestive process. This helps avoid digestive issues like constipation.
Beautifies Skin and Hair
Watermelon has Vitamin A that nourishes the skin and hair on a cellular level. If you want a healthier and beautiful skin and hair, eating watermelon is very effective because unlike relying on skin and hair care products, this fruit repairs and beautifies from the inside. Its vitamin A content moisturizes your skin and hair. It also has Vitamin C that promotes the production and growth of elastin cells and collagen.
Reduces Risks of having Cancer
Lycopene in watermelon is an anti-inflammatory compound. Lycopene effectively decreases development of free radicals that primarily causes cancer. On top of that, this fruit also has choline that deteriorates chronic inflammation. Lycopene boosts overall health and immunity thus preventing damage on a cellular level. According to studies, watermelon prevents and treats prostate cancer.
Keeps the Body Hydrated
This fruit is very popular especially on hot sunny days. Despite the scorching heat of the sun, watermelon will keep you hydrated. This fruit is high in water content and electrolytes that will keep you going despite the weather. This fruit also prevents heat stroke because it cools the body and regulates release of excess body liquid.
Prevents and Treats Diabetes
Watermelon has magnesium and potassium that stimulates production and maintenance of insulin in the body thus regulating blood sugar levels. The presence of Arginine also intensifies prevention of diabetes because this compound enhances insulin effects on our body’s sugar. This fruit is highly recommended to diabetic patients because it tastes sweet but is very low on calories.
Decreases Chances of Impotence
Watermelon is a healthier and safer cure to erectile dysfunction because of its arginine content. This fruit is also found to be an effective libido booster. It acts as a natural Viagra. If you are eager for a happier sex life, regular intake of watermelon will be effectively helpful.
Improves Eye Health
This fruit has beta-carotene, lutein, zeacanthin, and Vitamin C that highly betters eye health. Its antioxidants fight off eye disorders such as ARMD or are-related macular degeneration. If you want to avoid age-related eye ailments like glaucoma, blindedness, and the likes, as well as to promote better eye sight eating watermelon regularly effectively helps.