Watermelon is by far one of the most beneficial body-healing fruits. The health benefits of watermelon cover everything from brain function to the cells in your feet. Watermelon is incredibly hydrating (up to 92% water!) and is naturally low-fat. Benefits include improving cardiovascular health, nourishing your eyes and revving up your immune system. We are entering summer, the best time to indulge in this juicy melon that delivers an array of nutrients, vitamin and minerals.
Cardiovascular & Bone Health
The lycopene in watermelon is especially important for cardiovascular health and is now being recognized as an important factor in promoting bone health. Consuming watermelon has also been correlated with improved cardiovascular function because it improves blood flow via vasodilation (relaxation of blood pressure) and is rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in your body, resulting in stronger bones and joints.
Reduces Body Fat
The citrulline, an essential amino acid, in watermelon has been shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Citrulline has the ability to (through a series of steps) block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.
Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Support
Watermelon is rich in the compounds that reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals. Make sure you pick ripe watermelons because they contain higher amounts of these beneficial compounds.
Diuretic & Kidney Support
Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelon helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
Muscle & Nerve Support
Rich in potassium, watermelon is a great natural electrolyte and helps regulate the action of nerves and muscles in the body. Potassium determines the degree and frequency with which our muscles contract, and controls the excitation of nerves in our body.
Alkaline-forming
Watermelons have an alkaline-forming effect in the body when fully ripe. Eating lots of alkaline-forming foods (fresh, ripe, fruit and vegetables) can help reduce the risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet (namely, meat, eggs and dairy).
Improves Eye Health
Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene (that rich red hue of watermelon = beta carotene) which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.
Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage
The vitamin C content in watermelon is astoundingly high. Vitamin C improves our immune system, helps heal wounds and has been observed in numerous studies because it is essential to the formation of new connective tissue. The enzymes involved in forming collagen (the main component of wound healing) cannot function without vitamin C. If you are suffering from any slow-healing wounds, up your intake of vitamin C heavy fruit.
Edited from livelovefruit.com, 2013
FAQs
Watermelon is rich in an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and can lower your blood pressure. Your heart also enjoys the perks of all the lycopene watermelon contains. Studies show that it may lower your risk of heart attacks.
What happens to your body when you eat watermelon every day? ›
Watermelon is rich in an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and can lower your blood pressure. Your heart also enjoys the perks of all the lycopene watermelon contains. Studies show that it may lower your risk of heart attacks.
What does watermelon do for men? ›
The antioxidant properties of watermelon have been shown to improve sperm quality, male sexual dysfunction, and to improve testicl* function.
What are the health benefits of watermelon cover? ›
Some benefits are given below:
- Good source of fibre.
- Helps to control blood pressure.
- Contains amino acid (which is good for health)
- Aids in digestion.
- Low cholesterol levels.
- Aid skin health.
- Improve immune system.
Watermelon is a storehouse of Vitamin B6, a nutrient that assists the body to produce brain chemicals which relieve stress, anxiety and panic attacks. Without much effort, one is able to relax their blood vessels that enjoy the feel-good rush.
What does the 🍉 mean? ›
The Watermelon emoji 🍉 depicts a slice of watermelon. It is often used in the context of watermelons and watermelon-flavored food. Separately, the Watermelon emoji 🍉 is also used as a symbol of Palestine or as a way of showing support for Palestinians.
Is watermelon good for testosterone levels? ›
Bananas can boost testosterone as well as improve energy levels. Other testosterone-boosting fruits include watermelon and grapes. Citrus fruits can help increase testosterone production and reduce the hormones that make testosterone production less effective.
How often should a man eat watermelon? ›
“You can safely eat two servings of watermelon each day, but it's never a good idea to go on a diet that features only one type of food,” cautions Whitson. “A watermelon cleanse is a fad, like any other, and it will deprive your body of other nutrients it needs to function properly.”
Is it good to have watermelon at night? ›
In short, eating watermelon in the evening is not a problem in itself. It is a healthy and delicious fruit that you can enjoy at any time of the day. Remember to keep a balance in your diet and overall lifestyle, and don't worry too much about the myths surrounding watermelon.
What color watermelon is the healthiest? ›
Yellow watermelon contains more of the antioxidant beta-carotene than red watermelon. Beta-carotene is thought to protect against cancer and eye disease. Use yellow watermelon in fruit salads, on platters and in desserts, smoothies and juices.
Watermelon contains vitamin C, which the body needs to produce collagen. Collagen is essential for cell structure and immune function. Vitamin C also promotes wound healing. Studies suggest that vitamin C may help promote healthy skin, including reducing the risk of age-related damage.
Is watermelon good for the kidneys? ›
Diuretic & Kidney Support
Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelon helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
Is watermelon better than banana? ›
While bananas might be the first fruit to come to mind, watermelon actually reigns supreme when it comes to potassium. In just 2 wedges, or about 1/8th of a melon, you'll get 640 mg of potassium, or about 14% DV. Watermelon is also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and the antioxidant lycopene.
How much watermelon should you eat a day? ›
“You can safely eat two servings of watermelon each day, but it's never a good idea to go on a diet that features only one type of food,” cautions Whitson. “A watermelon cleanse is a fad, like any other, and it will deprive your body of other nutrients it needs to function properly.”
Is watermelon good for your liver? ›
Rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, watermelon helps protect liver cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, its high water content aids in flushing toxins out of the body and promoting optimal liver function.
Cardiovascular & Bone Health