Watermelon or Citrullus lanatus is a flowering plant containing vines and has its origins in Southern Africa. There are varieties of watermelons, that is seeded as well as seedless types. Examples include Sugar Baby, Sangria, Golden Midget, Starlight and Jubilee. Watermelon is a healthy fruit with numerous health benefits as we shall see in this article.
Benefit 1: Heart & Bone Health
Watermelon contains lycopene which is credited for healthy heart and related blood vessels it promotes blood flow by the process known as vasodilation.It also promotes bone health by lowering oxidative stress. This has the effect of lowering osteoblasts and osteolasts, both of which are responsible for progression of osteoporosis. The bones are strengthened by the presence of calcium and potassium elements minerals present in watermelon.
Benefit 2: Lowers Body Fat
Accumulation of fat in our fat cells poses a challenge to the kidneys. Thankfully, watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid which aids in converts into arginine, another amino acid and as a result, assists our bodies to reduce accumulation of body fat.
Benefit 3: Reduces Inflammatory and is an Antioxidant
Watermelon contains phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. The carotenoid lycopene in watermelon is especially crucial in lowering inflammation and destroying free radicals. Tripterpenoid on the other hand offers anti-inflammation relief by preventing the activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes which are responsible for causing increased inflammation. Phenolic compounds are mostly found in ripe watermelons.
Benefit 4: Healthy Kidneys and Liver
Watermelon aids in flow of urine, hence a natural diuretic. Unlike alcohol and coffee which put too much strain on kidneys, watermelon actually boost their function. It also aids the liver excrete ammonia.
Benefit 5: Improves Muscle & Nervous system
The potassium in watermelon is an electrolyte which assists to regulate nerve action as well as muscle movement in the body. This potassium sets the extent of the contraction of the muscles as well as the excitation of the nerves.
Benefit 6: Alkalinity of the Body
Watermelons have an alkaline effect in the body especially when ripe. As such, eating lots of watermelon assist in lowering the danger of high acidity, which result from high acidity diets such as meat and eggs.
Benefit 7: Promotes Eye Health
The beta-carotene in watermelon once converted into vitamin A is used to produce pigments in the retina. This in return protects the eye from age-related conditions of the eye such as macular degeneration and night-blindness.
Benefit 8: Healthy Immune System
Notably, watermelon is vitamin C rich, necessary for a strong immune system. The vitamin C is also responsible for wound healing as well as formation of new tissues. Collagen, the component responsible for healing relies on vitamin C.Therefore, eat plenty of watermelons as well as other vitamin C rich foods to promote healing.
