Sometimes the foods that we like the least, like spinach, are also the ones that are most beneficial to our health. But there are some exceptions, including… watermelon!
This delicious fruit is packed with water, sugar, fiber and essential nutrients like vitamins A, B6 and C, antioxidants, lycopenes, amino acids, and potassium. Its seeds are rich in protein, magnesium, vitamin B and good fats. Consider choosing organic, to take full advantage of its nutrients. Here are the best reasons to devour watermelon on the first hot days.
For heart health
Watermelon is the richest food in citrulline. It is an amino acid, a precursor of arginine, which has the particularity of increasing the vitality of blood vessels and promoting their dilation. Citrulline also plays a beneficial role in immunity.
Thanks to its nutrients, watermelon helps protect cells from stress-related damage and thus reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a study cited by the US site Live Science. Other work has shown a lowering effect of high blood pressure and blood pressure in obese adults. Its virtues would be particularly important for women after menopause.
One kilo of watermelon contains about 2 mg of citrulline. It is the varieties with orange and yellow flesh, like Sungold, Jaroski, which contain the most citrulline.
For its anti-inflammatory properties
Lycopenes, which give watermelon its beautiful red color, are used to slow down the inflammatory process and neutralize the free radicals responsible for oxidizing cells. This nutrient, along with choline, helps lower the rate of inflammation in the body, thereby improving overall health and well-being.
To hydrate with few calories
Between 20 and 30% of our daily hydration needs can go through our diet. And fruits like watermelon play a large part in it. In summer, a slice of watermelon hydrates us and gives us energy without weighing us down.
If the watermelon is made up of 90% water, it immediately contains very few calories: 38.9 kcal per 100 g (source: Ciqual nutritional table). It is one of the 10 lowest calorie fruits. It is therefore ideal for hydrating otherwise (we forget sodas and other sugary drinks) while keeping the figure.
Watermelon water recipe: remove the skin and seeds from 500g watermelon, cut the flesh into pieces and put them in the blender bowl. Add 10 cl of water or the juice of 2 lemons, a few ice cubes. Mix to obtain a smooth mixture. Decorate with mint leaves and serve. You can also replace the water with coconut water.
To stay young
Vitamin A is excellent for the skin and for the hair because it helps keep them hydrated and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Watermelon is a good source of this vitamin. Not to mention the lycopene it contains which is also a recognized antioxidant.
For muscle soreness
Athletes and sportswomen who love watermelon are lucky: consuming it before training would help reduce muscle stiffness the next day and maintain a stable heart rate. In question, the beneficial nutrients (including the amino acid citrulline) which improve blood circulation.
Healthy watermelon recipes
Low calorie recipe: Semi-cooked tuna and watermelon salad
Recipe rich in antioxidants: Fruit salad and watermelon
For cardiovascular health: Watermelon, fennel and celery salad
To quench your thirst: Watermelon and strawberry granita
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