WHAT WATERMELON DOES FOR YOU

Still on the series of fruits, today we talk about this wonderful red, juicy and watery fruit called watermelon. It is consumed by so many people all around the world and apart from the refreshing taste and feeling it gives, it is filled with a lot of nutrients and health benefits. Let’s get to it, shall we?

• It is a rich source of the antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene is the antioxidant responsible for the red colour of watermelon and other bright red fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes and guava. Actually, the more red the watermelon is the more lycopene it contains. So, it is good to allow watermelon to ripen well so as to get this antioxidant at its maximum. One thing we must know is that, antioxidant-rich foods are very essential to the body because it helps to prevent cell damage that may be caused by dangerous free radical in the body. Most dietary antioxidants can be gotten from various fruits and vegetables and these antioxidants have their various functions.
• Watermelon contains 0% of fat, 0% of cholesterol, about 7% of carbohydrate, 4% dietary fiber, 8% of potassium, 30% of vitamin A, 25% of vitamin C, 2% calcium, 4% iron, it also contains about 40 calories per cup and about 92% of water. So if you are looking for a low-calorie meal to snack on and still be full at the same time, then watermelon is your answer.  Also, because of the high water content, it is really hydrating and refreshing especially when taken chilled.
• Watermelon has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. This is due to the presence of the lycopene in the fruit. Research has shown that the antioxidant lycopene has been linked to preventing various cancers such as prostate cancer and due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to reduce inflammation in the body which may be due to cellular damage when sick. So it’s not just for patients with arthritis but also for everyone.
• Watermelon may be good for heart health. Compliments of still the antioxidant lycopene. Studies have shown that this phytochemical may help lower the risks of heart attacks by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Watermelon also contains citrulline, which is an amino acid that helps to lower blood pressure. There are other vitamins and minerals which are also good for the heart they include; vitamin A, C, and potassium.
• Watermelon is great for the skin and hair because of the presence of vitamins A and C. Vitamin A and C are very important for skin and hair health. Vitamin A helps to create and repair skin cells while vitamin C helps the body produce a protein called collagen which keeps the hair strong. The lycopene in the watermelon also prevents the skin from sunburn. But this should not stop you from using your SPF sunscreen, the watermelon can just be an additional protector.
• Watermelon is great for pre and post workouts. The high water content, antioxidants, and amino acids make it an excellent fit for your intense workout sessions. It helps to reduce muscle soreness and improves athletic performance. It is also said to be a sex boosting food as the presence of the amino acid citrulline helps to increase blood flow to the sexual organs.

Watermelon can be taken in various ways; either as a salad, a drink, or a smoothie. So when next you think of a low-calorie meal that is tasty, hydrating, refreshing, and also contains a lot of nutrients which could be really beneficial to you, do not think too far. Just think of watermelon!! And let’s say YES TO STAYING HEALTHY