Nothing is more refreshing than a cool slice of watermelon in summers.

Watermelon is high in antinflammatory antioxidant Lycopene (6.5 mg in less than half a cup) which has long been linked against reducing risk of stroke and ovarian cancers. Lycopene is an antioxidant that gives it a pink or red colour.

Other nutrients it provides are VitA, Vit C, Vit B6, Potassium and Magnesium.

• Studies have shown that drinking a glass of watermelon juice before a workout protects against muscle soreness. This is due to I-citrulline an amino acid which prevents pain.
• You can also eat watermelon rind as a vegetable or blend it with lime for added citrulline. The rind also has chlorophyll which promotes health and forms blood.
• Citrulline has many health benefits in addition to being heart healthy and building a strong immune system.
• Watermelon seeds are a source of nutrients like Iron, zinc, protein and fibre. You should actually eat the seeds also as they are very healthy.
• Watermelon is more than 91% water and is a great fruit to prevent dehydration.
• Obese participants of a study showed improved blood pressure and cardiac health.
• Watermelon should be enjoyed in moderation as one-sixteenth medium watermelon provides 11.3 gms Fructose. So overweight, diabetics and high bp patients should be careful with the quantity and keep fructose below 15gms a day.
• How to choose a watermelon-Take one with a pale buttery-yellow spot at the bottom.

It should be heavy and must have a dull top.

• Cut watermelon should always be refrigerated and always store uncut one in a cool place.

References

Journal of Agriculture and Food chemistry. July, 2013

Am J Hypertens, Jul 2014

Sci Rep, 2014, May

Green Medinfo.com, Arginine research