Watermelons are of best quality in summer. It is thirst quenching as well as a crunchy fruit.

It contains vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, potassium, thiamin, magnesium, dietary fiber and beta carotene. It contains the anti-oxidant lycopene and due to which the fruit gets its red color. The lycopenes reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing oxidation of cholesterol and preventing them to deposit on arterial walls. Lycopenes also reduce the risk of prostate cancer. The anti-oxidant lycopene is reducing the risk of colon cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, arthrosclerosis and asthma.

The fruit also contains electrolytes like sodium and potassium and hence especially useful in summer because in summer electrolytes are lost through perspiration. The fruit has large water content approximately 90% therefore the fruit is more important as hydrant. Watermelon contains an amino acids, citrulline, from which arginine, another amino acid is prepared. This arginine is useful in urea cycle which removes ammonia, the metabolic waste from the body. Citrulline is also an anti-oxidant and removes toxins from the body. This is helpful in relieving skin itching.

Vitamin C and beta carotene has anti-inflammatory properties and therefore important in relieving symptoms of arthritis.

As watermelon contains 90% water, it is better than caffeinated drinks to hydrate the body as caffeinated drinks can soon dehydrate the body. The high water content is good for constipation, bladder problems and water retention. A piece of fruit can be rubbed on skin to reduce blemishes and get beautiful skin.

The fruit is fat free and protective against macular degeneration, an age related eye disease. Watermelon helps in energy production.

For further in depth information, check out watermelon benefits

Mr Ajeet K is a health nutritionist, and over the years has even worked in the capacity of a nutritionist for some of the renowned hospitals! He continues to enjoy studying how food items affect the body, and now has made it his mission to share such information with others.

By Ajeet_K