Health Benefits of Watermelon
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Dec 22, 2020 • 3 min Read
Watermelon is not only refreshing and tasty but also super healthy. It is one of the major fruits eaten mainly as a dessert here in our country. Each juicy bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6, and C, lots of lycopene, antioxidants, and amino acids. You can consume watermelon as a whole or in the form of juice.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of watermelon, from Organic Facts, a food and nutrition informational website:
1. Gives Relief from Kidney Disorders
Watermelons contain a lot of potassium that helps flush out the toxic depositions in the kidney. They are known to reduce the concentration of uric acid in the blood, thereby reducing the chances of kidney damage and the formation of renal calculi.
Also, being high in water content, watermelons induce urination, which is again helpful for cleaning the kidneys. Also, the antioxidants present in it ensure good health of the kidneys for a long time and reduce signs of premature aging like wrinkles and age spots on the skin.
2. Prevents Dehydration
Research states that watermelon is made up of 92 percent water and can be effective in reducing both your body temperature and blood pressure.
3. Regulates Blood Pressure
A study states that watermelon extract plays a significant role in lowering blood pressure in obese people suffering from hypertension. Moreover, the amount of potassium and magnesium present in it is very beneficial in terms of lowering blood pressure. The carotenoids present in it also prevent the hardening of artery walls and veins, helping reduce blood pressure and the chances of blood clots, strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.
4. Controls Diabetes
Watermelons can be a good supplement. Despite being sweet, a thick wedge will give very few calories, as ninety-nine percent of its total weight is composed of water and roughage. Moreover, the vitamins and minerals such as potassium and magnesium help in the proper functioning of insulin in the body, thus lowering the blood sugar level. Arginine, another component found in it, is very effective at enhancing the impact of insulin on blood sugar.
5. Heart Health
A study says that lycopene, a carotenoid found in abundance in watermelon may help improve cardiac functions. Beta-carotene, known for its great antioxidant and anti-aging properties can help prevent age-related cardiac problems. The roughage in it, along with vitamin C, carotenoids, and potassium, helps reduce cholesterol and keep your heart safe from many dangerous conditions.
6. Aids in Digestion
A wedge of watermelon contains grams of dietary fiber that encourages a healthy dietary tract. It also contains 90 percent water, which is also important for promoting regular bowel movements.
7. May Improve Skin and Hair Health
Vitamins C and A, present in watermelon, are known to boost skin and hair health. Vitamin C plays an essential role in connective tissue healing and the production of collagen. Vitamin A, on other hand, can help repair skin cells and keep them young and supple.
8. May Reduce Inflammation
Eating this melon regularly may help lessen the risk of arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. It was revealed that supplementation of watermelon powder helped lower inflammation and cut down oxidative stress.
9. Prevents Macular Degeneration
Research suggests that carotenoids help keep the vision healthy and intact. Benefits to your eyes may include defense from age-related blindness and degeneration, drying up of eyes and optic nerves, and glaucoma.
Watermelon isn’t a super-food, but eating a little bit each day can significantly improve your health and reduce your risk of serious diseases. Enjoy the sweet and juicy slice of watermelon now and reap its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
