Health Benefits 101: WATERMELON

Watermelon is my go-to fruit every time I need refreshment. Here in the Philippines, watermelon is one of the major fruits eaten mainly as a dessert. Actually, this fruit needs no introduction, does it? It has been on our list of favorites since we were kids, and it will continue to remain.

“Watermelon is good for everyone,” says Lisa Young, Ph.D., R.D.N., adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University. Well consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. But this specific fruit is special. Today, we’ll be putting this hydrating fruit into spotlight.

Did You Know? 

Watermelons are mostly water — about 92 percent — but this refreshing fruit is soaked with nutrients. Each juicy bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, lots of lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids.

Health Benefits 

PERFECT FOR HYDRATION

It is a general knowledge that drinking water is a vital way to keep our bodies hydrated. Nevertheless, eating foods that have a high-water content can also help since watermelon consists of 92% water. The high amount of water in watermelons also stimulates a release of excess liquid in the form of sweat, which cools your body further during hot summer days.

GOOD FOR YOUR HEART

The bright red color of watermelon comes from Lycopene, which is an antioxidant. Lycopene may help improve cardiac functions. The fiber in watermelon, along with vitamin C, carotenoids, and potassium (potassium cuts the risk of a heart attack), helps reduce cholesterol and keep your heart safe from many dangerous conditions.

STRENGTHENS IMMUNITY

This amazing fruit is also rich in Vitamin C which helps strengthen the body’s immune system. The vitamin also aids in the formation of red blood cells. The fruit has vitamin A that regulates the immune system and protects it from infections. Need I say more to convince you to love this fruit?

GIVES YOU THAT SOFT GLOW

Vitamins A, B6, and C in watermelon help your skin stay soft, smooth, and supple. The vitamin A in watermelon is another important nutrient that contributes to skin health – it repairs and creates new skin cells. Without the nutrient, your skin would appear dull and flaky.

BOOSTS YOUR ENERGY LEVEL

Watermelon is low in calories and high in energy, and it can help you stay active for the better part of the day. It is also a good source of vitamin B, which is responsible for energy production in your body.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

The refreshing, sweet taste of watermelon on a hot day is something everyone can enjoy. But do you know what makes it even better? The health benefits of watermelon are massive and include prevention of diseases and disorders, including kidney disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart diseases, heat stroke, and many more! In addition with the many benefits of this amazing fruit, below is a photo of the nutritional facts of watermelon.