Watermelon is nothing short of a blessing in scorching summers. They are soft, sweet and juicy and one of the best thirst quenchers in summers. However, besides awesome taste, watermelons have immense health benefits. It is an ideal health drink because it is 92 per cent water, and does not contain any fat or cholesterol.
Juicy watermelons are packed with some of the best antioxidants in nature. Watermelon nutrition facts show that one wedge has 86 calories, less than 1 gram of fat, no cholesterol and less than 1% of daily required value of sodium. Watermelon nutrition facts reveal this fruit as a jack of all trades, providing healthy amounts of virtually all essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A and C are available in high quantities in just 1 wedge of watermelon, providing 33 and 39% of the daily required value. Vitamin B6, pantothenic acid and thiamin are also provided in significant amounts.
The red watermelon has lycopene in high quantities. Lycopene is an antioxidant and helps to prevent many diseases. Beta carotene and lycopene are compounds which guard plants against damage from sunlight. These help to neutralise the “free radicals,” roaming molecules that cause tissue and organ damage, in our bodies. Lycopene helps to minimise risks of strokes and other ailments like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, colon cancer and asthma.
Another benefit is that watermelon is a great source of potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure levels keeping one’s heart healthy. Watermelon seeds are rich sources of protein and micro and macro-nutrients like calcium, iron, potassium, zinc and phosphorus. Scientists claim that when watermelon is consumed, citrulline is converted to arginine through certain enzymes. Arginine is an amino acid that works wonders on the heart and circulation system and maintains a good immune system.
Watermelon juice is essential as a preventive against bone loss and is an excellent source of energy as it contains vitamin B. The fruit is beneficial in checking erectile dysfunction and increases insulin sensitivity. Because watermelon has higher water content and lower calorie content than many other fruits (a whole cup of watermelon contains only 48 calories), it delivers more nutrients per calorie which adds on to its health benefits. Prostate cancer can also be prevented to a large extent with the consumption of watermelons teamed up with green tea.