Watermelon…
Summer’s delicious gift to us. Watermelon is widely known to be nature’s thirst quencher, being composed of 92% water, and is widely craved when summer’s heat is at its peak. But, aside from it’s hydrating qualities and delicious, sweet taste, watermelon is packed with a diverse set of nutrients.
Health Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is packed with a diverse set of powerful nutrients, such as:
- Vitamin C – which is necessary for normal growth and development
- Glutathione – which helps boost the immune system
- Lycopene – which has been studied for antioxidant power in preventing cancers such as prostate, breast, endometrial, lung and colon cancer (commonly known to be in tomatoes, but is also present in large amounts of watermelon and mango)
- Carotenoids – which help protect cells from damaging effects of free radicals, are high in vitamin A, enhance the function of the immune system, and help your reproductive system function properly
- Vitamin B – which helps to increase energy levels
- Potassium – which helps control blood pressure and regulate heart beat
- Antioxidants – which works to neutralize free radicals in the body
Nutritional Values of Watermelon
Serving Size : 1 cup
Calories: 46
Carbohydrate: 11 g
Protein : 1 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 2 mg
calcium: 11 g
vitamin C: 12 mg (20.5% Daily Value)
vitamin A: 865 IU (17.2% DV)
potassium: 170 mg (4.9% DV)
magnesium: 15 mg (3.8% DV)
carotenoids: 7,481 micrograms
Serving Tips:
To increase the amount of lycopene and beta-carotene your watermelon delivers, store it at room temperature. However, once cut.. watermelon should be refrigerated in order to best preserve its freshness, taste and juiciness. If the whole watermelon doesn’t fit in your refrigerator, cut it into pieces (as large as possible), and cover with plastic wrap to prevent them from becoming dried out and potentially absorbing the odors of other foods.