Health benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is the name of the edible fruit of the family. It is a greatly cultivated fruit worldwide, with so many varieties.

Watermelon contains around 90% water

It is sweet and refreshing with low calorie. It provides hydration and a lot of essential nutrients which includes minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.

Other fruits that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family are honeydew, cantaloupe and cucumber.

Watermelon is extremely useful for staying hydrated during summer as it contains around 90% water. With its natural sugars, it can satisfy a sweet tooth (a great liking for sweet-tasting foods).

Types

There are five common types of watermelon, they are:

1. Seeded
2. Unseeded
3. Mini
4. Yellow
5. Orange

Health Benefits

Medical News Today says:

Watermelon also contains antioxidants. These substances can help removeTrusted Source molecules known as free radicals, or reactive species, from the body. The body produces free radicals during natural processes, such as metabolism. They can also develop through smoking, air pollution, stress, and other environmental pressures.

Watermelon can be eaten fresh, as juice or frozen in slices

If too many free radicals stay in the body, oxidative stress can occur. This can result in cell damage and may lead to a range of diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.

1. Prevention of Asthma: Some experts are of the belief that free radicals contribute to the development of asthma. The risk of having asthma may reduce with the presence of certain antioxidants in the lungs, including Vitamin C. A diet rich in Vitamin C may offer some protection, however, studies have not confirmed that taking Vitamin C supplements can help prevent asthma.
2. Cancer: The dietary antioxidants contained in watermelon, like Vitamin C, may help prevent cancer by fighting free radicals. The National Cancer Institute Trusted Source (NCI) note that free radicals can play a role in the development of some types of cancer. The oxidative stress they cause can result in DNA cell damage.
3. Hydration: Watermelon provides electrolytes, such as potassium, as well as contains around 90% water. This makes it a healthful choice of snack during the period of hot summer. Watermelon can be eaten fresh, as juice, or frozen in slices
4. Brain and Nervous System: Another antioxidant in watermelon is Choline. This antioxidant positively contributes to the general health of a person. Choline contributes to the following functions and activities – quick brain development, the transmission of nervous impulses, learning and memory, movement of muscles, cell membranes structure maintenance.
5. Skin: The body needs Vitamin C, and this nutrient is contained in Watermelon. Vitamin C is needed in the body for the production of Collagen. This collagen is very important for cell structure and immune function. Vitamin C also helps in fast healing of wounds. Studies suggest that Vitamin C may help promote healthy skin alongside reduce the risk of age-related damage.
6. Blood Pressure: Based on a 2012 study, it was discovered by researchers that watermelon extract reduced blood pressure in and around the ankles of middle-aged people with obesity and early hypertension. Suggestion by the authors says, two of the antioxidants in watermelon – L-citrulline and L-arginine – may enhance the function of the arteries. Another antioxidant in watermelon, Lycopene, may help shield against heart disease. According to a review in 2017, it suggested that it might achieve this by lowering inflammation connected with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol.
7. Digestion and Regularity: Watermelon contains a high amount of water, alongside provides some fibre. These nutrients help to prevent constipation and promote regularity of bowel movement, thereby, promoting a healthy gut.
8. Diuretic Properties: For some people, they turn to diuretic drugs to help their bodies remove excess water and salt. Diuretic means – causing increased passing of urine. The diuretic drugs are useful for people with high blood pressure, kidney problems and other problems. According to a mouse study in 2014, it was concluded that the diuretic action of watermelon might be as effective as that of Furosemide, which is a common diuretic. This could make it a natural choice for those with excess fluid.