Watermelon, one of the most emblematic fruits of summer, is low in calories and high in water. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, and is less acidic than citrus fruits and tomatoes, which are also good sources of lycopene and vitamin C.
Minerals and vitamins
A red watermelon that is entirely ripe has more nutrients than a less ripe watermelon. A single serving of watermelon contains a considerable amount of vitamin C and vitamin A, accounting for a significant portion of your daily requirement for both. Vitamin C promotes wound healing and may have immune-boosting and anti-aging properties, while vitamin A promotes eye health. A one-cup portion of watermelon also contains around 7% of your daily copper and pantothenic acid requirements, 5% for biotin, and 4% for vitamins B1 and B6. Watermelon has few calories and nearly no fat. While it has many beneficial elements, such as vitamins A and C, it is relatively high in sugar, so persons who are watching their sugar intake may benefit from eating this fruit in moderation.
Health Advantages
Watermelon can benefit your health in a variety of ways aside from being a tasty summer treat.
Prevents Dehydration
Watermelon contains about 92 percent water, making it a highly hydrating dietary choice, as its name applies. Try a couple servings of watermelon if you or your children struggle to drink enough water, especially on hot summer days. You’ll get more micronutrients as well as hydration.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Watermelon has antioxidant activity because it is abundant in lycopene, a carotenoid phytonutrient that has been found in studies to help lower or prevent high blood pressure. Tomatoes are well-known sources of lycopene, but a fully ripe watermelon contains considerably more than a tomato.
Lowers the Risk of Infection and Cancer
Flavonoids, triterpenoids and tarotenoids are some of the other antioxidants found in watermelon. Antioxidants aids in cell repair and may reduce your risk of infections and certain malignancies.
Promotes Weight Loss
Watermelon can help you lose weight, reduce inflammation, and detoxify your body. Like other extreme diets and cleanses, the watermelon diet makes lofty claims. However, watermelon is a low-calorie food, with only 46 calories in one cup. Watermelon is unlikely to contribute to weight gain because a cup contains less than a gram of fat. It is also suitable for a low-fat diet.
Reduces Muscle Fatigue
The amino acid citrulline is present in considerable concentrations in watermelon. Therefore, concentrated citrulline capsules are available as a nutritional supplement for athletic performance. Although some research suggests that citrulline supplements may lessen weariness after exercise, the effects of citrulline are not conclusive.
Food Allergies
Watermelon food allergies are uncommon. However, if you have hay fever or are sensitive to ragweed pollen or grasses, you may have a food-pollen allergy syndrome, which can cause a cross-reaction to the pollen-like proteins in watermelon. After eating watermelon, you may have a tingling or itching sensation in your mouth. This can be more harmful in rare circumstances, causing throat swelling or anaphylaxis.
Negative Effects
Watermelon carries low hazards, according to the study, as it is “nontoxic with no documented negative effects.” However, because watermelon contains sugar, those with diabetes should exercise caution when eating it to avoid blood sugar rises.
Varieties
Watermelon comes in a plethora of cultivars and variations. These are classified according to their size (“icebox” or smaller variations vs. bigger “picnic” types), the color of their flesh (yellow,pink, or orange), and whether or not they contain seeds. The rind of a watermelon can be plain green, green-striped, or speckled with white. Melons can be oval or round in shape and range in weight from 6 to 29 pounds. Although golden-fleshed types are becoming more popular, the crisp flesh is generally pinkish-red. Watermelons, which are native to tropical Africa, are cultivated commercially in the United States in places like Texas, Florida, Georgia, and California, where the weather is warm and suitable for a long growing season.
When It’s the Best
Watermelon is in season in the United States during the summer. A ripe watermelon has a considerable weight for its size. The exterior should be solid and devoid of nicks and dents. The ground spot where the melon was resting should be a creamy yellow tint rather than white.
Food Storage and Safety
Watermelon can be stored at room temperature if it is uncut. Because heat causes the flesh to dry out, keep watermelon in a cold spot, such as a cellar or the refrigerator if it’s hot outside. It can be preserved in the refrigerator for two to three weeks if it is uncut. Once chopped, store it in the fridge for up to five days in a closed container or sealed plastic bag. Watermelon that has been sliced up into bits can also be frozen.
How to Get Ready
Watermelon can be used in a variety of ways, including smoothies, salsa, and salads (both fruit salads and veggie-heavy ones, too). Its mild sweetness complements cheese, almonds, and other protein sources. It can also be grilled or frozen for a refreshing dessert. Pour cool or frozen watermelon pieces into water or seltzer for a refreshing, low-calorie drink. The entire watermelon can be eaten. You can consume both the seeds and the rind, which is sometimes made into watermelon rind flour or served after being stir-fried, pickled or stewed. (The white seeds in a seedless watermelon are empty seed coats that have not fully matured.
Kim’s Final Thoughts ….
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, watermelon is great for cooling down poolside or at the beach. Just like its health benefits, there are many different delicious recipes for preparing watermelon. So don’t forget to pack some watermelon as a healthy snack while having fun in the sun this summer.
