A crisp, juicy, sweet and cool mouthful of watermelon is the epitome of summer flavors. According to Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, people who eat watermelon tend to have better-quality diets with higher levels of fiber, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, and other antioxidants, as well as fewer added sugars and saturated fats than people who don’t eat watermelon. In this article, we will major in the top health benefits of watermelons to the body.
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Surprising health benefits of watermelons you need to know
Watermelon is a juicy fruit that has brilliant red flesh and tiny seeds embedded in it. It is rich in antioxidants and minerals, including vitamins A and C. What does watermelon do to the body? Some of the health benefits of watermelons include;
- Reduces the risk of cancer
Watermelon contains lycopene, which has been shown to potentially lower inflammation and oxidative stress, which is defined as an imbalance between the body’s defenses against the impacts of free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body naturally creates and can cause illness, and these chemicals.
According to research, the lycopene has the ability to lower inflammation and prevent cancer cells from developing, which lowers your chance for the diseases. Research has also shown that consuming more lycopene can lower your chance of developing digestive tract malignancies.
2. Keeps the heart healthy
According to research, Lycopene in watermelons may aid in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, two factors that are crucial for cardiovascular health. Besides, Citruline, amino acid found in watermelon, has the potential to raise nitric oxide levels in the body and aid in the dilation of blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
Magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A, B6, and C are among the other vitamins and minerals found in watermelon. These nutrients are all good for your heart and general health.
3. Helps reduce inflammation
According to Derocha, watermelon contains a particular combination of antioxidants, such as lycopene and vitamin C, which may eventually help reduce oxidative damage and inflammation. Those who are afflicted with inflammation may experience swelling, soreness, or flushed skin. Furthermore, long-term inflammation can contribute to life-threatening diseases such type 2 diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and cancer.
4. Aids in blood sugar control
Controlling blood sugars is among the health benefits of watermelons to the body. This sweet fruit aids in the kidneys’ conversion of the amino acid L-citrulline to L-arginine. Actually, there’s a chance that these two amino acids will save you from developing diabetes. Furthermore, L-arginine supplement in watermelons is essential for controlling the body’s insulin and glucose metabolism.
5. Plays a role in weight loss
Meyer-Jax says that opting for watermelon instead of another sugary snack will prolong your feeling of fullness. For instance, a small study that was published in the journal Nutrients in 2019 discovered that individuals who were clinically obese or overweight and chose to consume watermelon rather than low-fat cookies felt more satisfied. The daily consumption of watermelon was linked to a reduction in the patients’ waist circumference, blood pressure, body weight, and body mass index.
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Is it good to eat watermelon everyday? Know more of its benefits
6. Aids in digestion
Watermelon’s plant-based polyphenols nourish the beneficial microorganisms in your stomach. In addition to making digestion easier, this may strengthen your immune system and increase the amount of vital nutrients your stomach produces.
7. Keeps the body hydrated
92% of this nutritious fruit is water. According to research, including watermelon fruit in your weight loss diet can prevent you from becoming dehydrated. Staying hydrated helps protect your cardiovascular system and keeps your tongue from drying up. Therefore, all you have to do to stay healthy is to eat one cup of watermelon every day.
8. May aid in bone and joint health
In addition to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, watermelon may help improve the health of your joints and bones (Trusted Source).
The fruit has a naturally occurring pigment called beta-cryptoxanthin that may reduce inflammation in your joints. Research even suggests that, however limited, reduced inflammation over time may help shield you from acquiring diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis.
9. Helps in fighting asthma
With just one cup of watermelon a day, you may be able to combat some of the more severe consequences of asthma since watermelon is a good source of vitamin C, which helps to lessen the effects of asthma.
Additionally, people who have asthma who have low vitamin C levels tend to have greater symptoms of the disease, therefore if you have asthma, watermelon is an excellent suggestion. Watermelon, to put it simply, contains approximately 40% vitamin C, which is beneficial for asthmatics.
10. Aids in skin health
The vitamin C evident in watermelons aids in the production of collagen, which strengthens your cells, your immune system, and your capacity to recover from traumas. Collagen helps to replenish dead skin cells and offers your skin strength and suppleness. Thus, consuming watermelon may help your skin and reduce the signs of aging.
Moreover, watermelon’s beta-carotene produces vitamin A, which aids in skin cell renewal and guards against peeling and dry skin. Its B6 content also might aid shield against acne. If you’re thinking that watermelon may make a decent face mask ingredient, you’re not wrong.
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11. May help in relieving muscle soreness
The amino acid, citrulline, present in watermelon, may help with muscular pain and enhance workout performance. According to a review, taking citrulline on a daily basis for at least seven days can enhance aerobic capacity by boosting the body’s nitric oxide synthesis, which helps blood vessels widen and reduces the amount of effort your heart has to use to pump blood throughout your body.
Another research indicated that watermelon itself, rather than just citrulline, may benefit your body after working out. Interesting, citrulline can be obtained as a supplement as well.
12. Controls blood sugars and improve circulation
Watermelon naturally contains L-citrulline, especially in the white section of the rind. Due to its ability to relax blood vessels and enhance circulation, L-citrulline may help decrease blood pressure and improve arterial function.
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According to certain data, L-citrulline may enhance athletic performance and muscle oxygenation during endurance training.
The above are the major health benefits of watermelons to the body. Remember to include this fruit in your diet and stay healthy always.
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