A delicious fruit that you can eat to quench your thirst and at the same time revitalize your body with Vitamin A and anti-oxidant lycopene is watermelon. These melons are so juicy and tasty that they have everything you need to beat the summer heat. They are high in water content and are also packed with electrolytes, making them the perfect fruit for hot summers. These delicious fruits owe their red color to lycopene, which is an antioxidant that is also commonly found in tomatoes.
Over the years, researches and studies have shown that lycopene plays an important role in maintaining cardiovascular health. There are many more delicious health benefits of watermelon which we are going to take a look at in this article.
Reduces inflammation
On the website of The World’s Healthiest Foods, you can find watermelon in the top 100 list. The name appears right up with superfoods like salmon, walnuts and pumpkin seeds. Because watermelons are rich in lycopene, it can prevent conditions like arthritis from getting worse. It can also lower chronic inflammation that are mostly aggravated by stress, pollution and smoking.
Good for bones
Oxidative stress is responsible for bone problems and lycopene rich foods such as watermelon reduce oxidative stress. Recent studies have also shown that this antioxidant can also be used as an effective and natural treatment for the management of osteoporosis.
Reduces risk of cancer
A number of studies have indicated that consuming watermelons can help reduce the risk of many different types of cancers including breast, prostrate, lung, endometrial and colon cancers. Some experts recommend watermelon as an anti-cancer food because of its high level of lycopene and Vitamin C.
Increases hydration levels
Not having the required amounts of water in the body can lead to a number of health problems including headaches, digestive problems, liver toxicity, ulcers and even heat stroke. Watermelon has very high water content (92%) and it is great for people who find it hard to drink plenty of water a day.
Skin and hair benefits
Watermelon is loaded with Vitamin C and Vitamin A and these two when combined plays an important role in the growth of elastin cells and collagen which are needed for the healthy growth of hair and also for maintaining skin health. Consuming this fruit on a regular basis will ensure that your skin and hair are well moisturized and conditioned.
Eye health benefits
There is a multitude of nutrients contained in watermelons which can help maintain proper eye health. These nutrients include lutein, vitamin C, beta carotene, zeaxanthin and many others. All these nutrients also work together to provide protection against blindness and macular degeneration which is age-related.
Keeps you focused
Watermelon also contains potassium which is an essential nutrient needed for the proper functioning of the body. Low potassium levels can lead to confusion and mental fogginess and it can also interrupt the electrical signals that are sent and received by the brain. Regular consumption of watermelon and foods which are high in potassium will reduce brain fog and keep you focused.
