Watermelon is not just a delicious summer fruit, but also an excellent source of nutrients. In addition to being rich in vitamins A and C, watermelon also contains high amounts of lycopene and carotenoids.
These nutrients are responsible for the red hue of a ripe watermelon; in fact, watermelon contains more lycopene than any other commonly eaten food. Red watermelon has been shown to have many health benefits. It helps to lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation and even aid in weight loss! Read on to learn about 10 surprising benefits of eating watermelon...
Rich in antioxidants
Watermelon is rich in antioxidants, which are substances that protect against damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the body's cells, leading to diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Antioxidants can neutralize these free radicals, reducing your risk of disease. Additionally, watermelon is a good source of the carotenoid lycopene, which is responsible for the red color of many fruits and veggies. Research has shown that eating foods rich in lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as prostate, breast and pancreatic cancers.
Helps to flush out toxins
The watermelon is known as the "queen of detox". The antioxidants found in watermelon help your body to flush out toxins, which can help to keep your body in optimal health! Watermelon is rich in citrulline, a chemical that helps your body to produce more arginine, a chemical that breaks down the "bad" ammonia that's produced when you digest protein. But when there isn't enough arginine, ammonia builds up in the bloodstream, where it can cause fatigue and even destroy your liver.
Supports weight loss
Watermelon contains the amino acid citrulline, which has been shown to help promote weight loss. Citrulline has also been linked to improved athletic performance. When your body breaks down protein, it releases a chemical called ammonia. If your body can't eliminate the ammonia quickly, it can become toxic and cause fatigue and achy muscles. By taking in more citrulline, you can increase your arginine levels and speed up the elimination of ammonia, which may help keep your energy levels high and muscles pain-free, even during intense workouts.
Help boost cognition
Watermelon contains large amounts of citrulline and arginine, nutrients that are crucial for cognitive function. Specifically, arginine is a precursor for nitric oxide, which helps to improve blood flow throughout the body, including to the brain. This is significant because cognition relies on optimal blood flow to the brain. Cognitive function can be seriously impaired by blood vessel damage, which can be caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Eating foods rich in arginine may help lower your risk of these diseases.
Protect against sun damage and skin aging
Watermelon is rich in lycopene, a pigment that gives the fruit its red color. Because of this, watermelon is often referred to as a "superfood" when it comes to sun protection. One study found that eating one-and-a-half cups of watermelon daily for four weeks before UV exposure could reduce skin redness and sunburn by up to 55%. The same study also found that eating watermelon daily for four weeks before going outside could reduce the amount of skin damage caused by UV exposure by up to 50%.
B Vitamins and Magnesium for muscle recovery and repair
Watermelon contains high amounts of B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism and nervous system function. Magnesium is another important mineral found in watermelon and is necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle metabolism and relaxation. When your muscles are stressed during exercise, they may become inflamed, which can impede your ability to recover and perform at your best. By eating watermelon, you can help your muscles to recover and repair more quickly by supplying them with B vitamins and magnesium.
Help combat inflammation
Watermelon contains high amounts of the flavonoid anthocyanin, which is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has reported that the anthocyanin in watermelon has been shown to reduce arthritic joint swelling by up to 50%. These anti-inflammatory properties make watermelon an excellent choice for people with arthritis, joint pain or other inflammatory conditions.
Conclusion
The watermelon is a symbol of summer, with its sweet, juicy flesh and its vibrant red color. Be careful to purchase a watermelon that has a slightly soft spot on the underside, as this indicates that it is ripe enough to eat. Watermelon is a great source of vitamins A, B and C. It also has lots of lycopene, a carotenoid that gives it its red color. When eaten in moderation, watermelon can provide a healthy boost of energy, vitamins and minerals. So if you're looking to kick-start your summer health and diet, then make watermelon your best friend!
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