Watermelon is a refreshing, tasty fruit with properties that are essential to keeping our body healthy. It is approximately 93% water and has a low calorie content. A slice equals approximately 33 calories, which classifies it as light but complete. Learn more about watermelon benefits and why it is so important to consume the fruit.
Rich in nutrients very important to our body, in watermelon are found fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins A, C and B6, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron. The reddish color of the pulp has a high concentration of a powerful antioxidant called lycopene, which neutralizes free radicals (harmful substances to the body and those responsible for aging the skin).
It also contributes to improved insulin sensitivity and aids in the prevention of diseases such as hypertension, prostate, endometrial, lung and breast cancer.
Including watermelon in food still helps keep the body always hydrated due to its large amount of water and contributes to lowering cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis and orthoarthritis.
In addition to the benefits of watermelon, the fruit seeds should not be neglected either, as they have nutritional properties that are good for health. They are rich in zinc, a mineral that helps boost body immunity and fatty acids, which contribute to the proper functioning of metabolism by regulating hormones.
The sweetened taste of watermelon comes from fructose, a natural carbohydrate sugar source that works in the body as an energy store, helping the brain, nerves, bone marrow and red blood cells to function optimally. Because it is free of fat and cholesterol, watermelon helps regulate blood pressure by preventing the body from arrhythmias and being essential in muscle contraction. It is also responsible for bringing water molecules to the cells helping to lower body temperature.
Watermelon can also influence sex life. It contains citrulline, an amino acid that when consumed is converted to arginine, which has the function of improving circulation, increasing the
nitric oxide production, effective in relaxing blood vessels, promoting improvement in libido and helping to prevent male sexual impotence.
And it doesn't end here. Because it is rich in water and natural sugars, the fruit also contributes to making body fluids such as saliva, vaginal discharge and semen sweeter and more fragrant.
No one can resist a slice of cold watermelon, especially on hot days. But according to studies, the properties of lycopene and beta-carotene in fruit when consumed at room temperature get even better. So, the ideal is to leave the watermelon a few minutes out of the refrigerator before consuming it. To preserve after opening and to prevent vitamin loss due to contact with light and oxygen, pack watermelon well and refrigerate.
Watermelon can be consumed in a variety of ways, whether natural, in juice form, added to the fruit salad or even as a tasty dessert mousse. Just do not forget to also consume the seed, which is rich in vitamins.
What Happens to Your Body when You Eat Watermelon Everyday – Benefits of Watermelon (April 2024)
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