Seasonal produce is nature’s perfect way to help us stay healthy throughout the year. In winter we have the warming, grounding root vegetables, in spring cleansing greens and right now, in the middle of the hot summer months there is an abundance of fruit that is meant to help us battle the heat and stay cool.
Watermelon is one of these fruits. Up to 92% water, watermelons are extremely hydrating and cooling and satisfying. It being a high volume food with low calories it is a perfect weight loss food but there is much more to watermelon… Here are some of the reasons you want to include this refreshing fruit into your diet.
- Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps support our kidney function
- It contains lycopene, an antioxidant also found in tomatoes for example, which is beneficial for cardiovascular- and bone health and to reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer
- There is potassium, which is an important mineral that your body needs to convert sugar in your blood into energy. It helps retain calcium for stronger bones and with nerve and muscle support
- Watermelon is one of the richest sources of citrulline, a non-essential amino acid antioxidant that is converted into arginine: another amino acid. Arginine has a key role in cell division, artery function and blood flow, wound healing and the removal of ammonia from our bodies
- Phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids and triterpenoids help reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals
- Watermelons are alkaline in nature
- They contain beta-carotene, which is converted in our bodies into vitamin A, which is important for eye health
- Watermelons also have vitamin C, which helps with immune function, with wound healing and preventing cell damage
Watermelon is delicious on its own but can be made extra special with the addition of some simple ingredients. Have a look at the following recipes for some inspiration:
