Benefits of Eating Watermelon

2020-06-25T09:57:56+00:00

By Virtue Digest

Watermelon is a refreshing fruit soaked with nutrients. It contains about 92% of water which makes it useful for staying hydrated especially during dry season. It is sweet with natural sugars and it has low calories.There is need for us to take more fruits especially during this period when we all depend on our immune system. Watermelon helps to boost the immune system and it contains antioxidants. These substances can help remove molecules known as free radicals or reactive species from the body.The radicals are developed during natural processes such as metabolism, through smoking, air pollution, stress and other environmental pressures. However, when the free radicals stay in the body, they can damage the cell and may lead to diseases such as cancer and heart disease.Watermelon can help remove the radicals naturally. It should be noted that watermelon contains 46 calories per cup but high in Vitamin C and Vitamin A among other components. Some of the benefits are:Read more: The right way to wash fruits and vegetables

It hydrates you

Watermelon helps to keep your body hydrated. When you combine water and fiber, it means you are eating a good volume of food without lots of calories.

It helps to prevent cancer

Researchers have studied that plant compounds and lycopene in watermelon are anti-cancer effects. It reduces cancer risk by lowering insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a protein involved in cell division. Also, cucurbitacin E has been investigated to inhibit tumour growth.

It improves heart health

Heart disease is one of the causes of death in world today. Watermelon has several nutrients which benefit the heart. Lycopene helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Watermelon contains citrulline, amino acid that increases nitric oxide levels in the body. The nitric oxide helps the blood vessels expand which lowers blood pressure.

It is good for the skin and hair

Vitamin A and C contained in watermelon are important for the skin and hair health. Vitamin A helps to create and repair skin cells while Vitamin C helps the body make collagen a protein that keeps the skin supple. Lack of vitamin A makes the skin dry.

It improves digestion

Water aids digestion and it helps the digestive tract to move efficiently. Therefore, eating water and fibre rich fruits promotes normal bowel movements.Watermelon is good for your health, always endeavour to eat it. However, if you have diabetes, it is good to watch what you eat. This is because fruit with natural sugar can be tricky to the health.