Monday
Aug012011
4 Reasons to Eat Watermelon
Monday, August 1, 2011 at 5:45AM
A summertime favorite, watermelon is more than just a refreshing afternoon snack - it has health benefits, too. Watermelon is:
- Low in calories
- Rich in antioxidants
- A good source of vitamins C, A, B6 and B1
- A good source of the carotenoid lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of prostate and other cancers
It is also versatile, lending its sweet flavor and crisp texture to everything from tomatoes to cheese. When choosing, look for a hefty, symmetrical, unblemished melon. A creamy yellow spot on the bottom indicates ripeness. Add this colorful fruit to your summer menu for a healthy way to cool off - perfect for any hot day!
Or try watermelon in this refreshing Summer Melon Soup!
Reader Comments (9)
Should be noted that watermelon, like all melons, should be eaten alone as they move through the digestive tract very rapidly.
Given the high water content, non organic watermelon may absorb significant agricultural chemicals. Any thoughts?
Watermelon is on the EWG's "Clean 15", meaning non-organic watermelon is low in pesticides. The outside should still be washed thoroughly, though.
I am surprised that you didn't mention that Watermelon has also been shown to lower blood pressure.
I tried L-arginie...and it upset my stomach ...but Dr. Oz mentioned Watermelon in passing and I thought I'd try it since I love it so much...I was shocked!!...it did work on me....(along with Q10 & Hibiscus Tea & "hand-grip exercises" [& occasionally Niacin -on really bad days] ...
Low-salt diet, exercise & weight loss were not working well enough for me & I couldn't tolerate the meds. my Drs. were prescribing...so I am thrilled to find out about the Watermelons.
Here's the link where I got the info. on the melon...http://www.physorg.com/news/2010-10-watermelon-lowers-blood-pressure.html
Below is a quote from that article:
"Watermelon is the richest edible natural source of L-citrulline, which is closely related to L-arginine, the amino acid required for the formation of nitric oxide essential to the regulation of vascular tone and healthy blood pressure”
PS My B/P was routinely between 190/102 to 156/97....after my regiment...it will lower to 120/87 to 136/90
Its great for the libido too!
Watermelon — Watermelon is rich with citrulline, an amino acid that helps improve blood flow to the heart and genitalia, as well as to the rest of the body.
Citrulline is highly effective at relaxing blood vessels, producing an effect similar to drugs like Viagra. Result: Increased blood flow to your sexual organs.
I find in my case it helps my lungs I always notice I can breath better after eating a good portion and I have lung issues so I notice the differance you may want to investigate that .
Try sprinkeling some crumbled Feta cheese on your diced Watermelon for a nice treat. Sounds yucky, but try it....yummy on a hot day or for a bar-b-q! Let me know how you like it. Sandy Sunshine
Put in a blender (no rind of course) mix with a little ice and drink.
Fresh watermelon juice on a hot day.
Yummy!!
What about the sugar on the melon? Is it high in glusemic index.?