Check out some health wonders of watermelon:
Watermelon is truly a wonder fruit with just 6 percent sugar and 91 percent water it is a perfect and refreshing summer fruit. Despite being mainly water and sugar, watermelons are actually a very good source of vitamin C but however, some people avoid watermelon because they say it has high levels of sugar. But according to a research, this yummy and juicy fruit has a wide range of benefits:
Cardiovascular & Bone Health: The lycopene in watermelon is good for cardiovascular health. Dietary lycopene reduces oxidative stress which reduces the activity of the two major bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. It is also rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in the body.
Reduces body fat: The citrulline in watermelon reduces the accumulation of fat in the fat cells and converts into arginine with help from the kidneys. Citrulline, also has the ability to block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.
Boost energy: Watermelon is rich in B vitamins that help boost energy, in particular B1 and B6, magnesium and as mentioned potassium so daily serving of watermelon has been shown to boost energy levels by up to 23%.
Improve sleep: The polysaccharide carbohydrates in the fruit increases the body’s output of serotonin and when levels of serotonin increase at night, the brain is less sensitive to noise during sleep.
Improves eye health: It is a wonderful source of beta-carotene which is converted in the body to Vitamin A. This helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness.
Diuretic & Kidney Support: Unlike alcohol and caffeine, Watermelon is a natural diuretic that helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys. It helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases the strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
Watermelons may improve male erectile function: A study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M found that phytonutrients in watermelon can relax blood vessels in the same way Viagra does.
Tips: Long-term refrigeration can sap nutrients and flavor from the fruit so place it in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing it as a quick chill causes the fruit’s cells to constrict which means the juice stays in the slices instead of running out onto the cutting board.
Watermelon drink: Blend chunks of watermelon with a few ice cubes and a splash of lime juice. Serve with some fresh mint leaves.
