The benefits of watermelon for health come from its unique nutrients, vitamins, minerals and organic compounds. These include significant amounts of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, fiber, protein and a large amount of potassium. In this article, we present you the reasons why it is beneficial to eat watermelon.
Nutritional value for each 100g of watermelon:
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 0.6 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Calories: 30 Kcal
- Fibers: 0.5 g
- Vitamin A: 50 μg
- Vitamin C: 8.1 mg
- Other vitamins: B1, B2, B3 and B6
- Potassium: 112 mg
- Magnesium: 11 mg
- Iron: 0.2 mg
- Other minerals: Manganese and Phosphorus
Watermelon is a perfect food to stay hydrated and healthy. Its regular consumption protects you against heart disease and visual disturbances and can be your best ally after physical exercise.
Here are the reasons why it is beneficial to eat watermelon:
1 - Reduce blood pressure
A study conducted by Florida State University in Tallahassee and published in the American Journal of Hypertension in 2011, states that a daily dose of watermelon juice helps lower blood pressure. According to the researchers, watermelon is a fruit that works with vasodilator effects that increase the synthesis of nitric oxide, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.
2 - A very good ally for weight loss
Despite its sweet taste, watermelon has a low energy density. It contains more than 90 of water; so you can eat a lot without consuming a lot of calories. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition, revealed that arginine - the secret component of watermelon - helps speed up metabolism and promotes weight loss
3 - Watermelon acts as a diuretic
If you have problems with your kidneys, urinary tract, prostate, or water retention, watermelon is a natural diuretic that is ideal for removing toxins and increasing kidney secretion. Its high fiber content also promotes cleansing of the intestines and the proper functioning of the digestive system.
4 - It is effective for muscle pain
According to a study from the Polytechnic University of Cartagena, Colombia, drinking watermelon juice may be the natural remedy you need to relieve your muscle pain. The authors of the research attribute the aforementioned effect to an amino acid present in this fruit, citrulline.
5 - It is beneficial for the health of the eyes
High levels of vitamin A in watermelon will improve eye health, helping to develop retinal pigments in your eyes, and protect you from macular degeneration and night blindness.
6 - A preventive effect on cancer
Watermelon is the food with the highest percentage of lycopene. According to the National Cancer Institute, this component has chemopreventive effects on cancer of the prostate, skin, breast, lung and liver. In addition, Dr. Mercola also mentioned that lycopene reduces the growth of brain tumors.
7 - It has a natural laxative effect
With its high fiber content, watermelon is a perfect food for cleaning, purifying and removing toxic substances from your digestive system.
