Watermelon is a fruit with a high water content, which helps keep the body hydrated, especially during summer.
Watermelon: a delicious and healthy choice
Watermelon is one of the tastiest and healthiest fruits. It is rich in water and nutrients, low in calories and contains very little fat, making it an excellent choice for the diet-conscious. But the benefits of watermelon go beyond that. This fruit has diuretic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, so eating it regularly benefits the body.
Daily benefits of eating watermelon: body hydration and diuretic effect
Watermelon is one of the foods with the highest water content. About 92% of its composition is liquid, making daily consumption an excellent way to hydrate the body. The fruit’s high water content also has an important diuretic effect on the body, helping to prevent and treat water retention. The problem is characterized by the accumulation of fluid between the cells of the tissues, leading to swelling and a feeling of heaviness in the legs, feet, abdomen and hands.
Although it may seem contradictory, the best way to reduce fluid retention is to eat water-rich foods like watermelon. The fruit is also a source of potassium, a mineral that lowers sodium levels in the body and stimulates urine production. Both effects help to eliminate the accumulation of water in the body and relieve swelling.
The diuretic properties of watermelon also help to eliminate toxins in the body, keep urine clean and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.
Watermelon is rich in nutrients and antioxidants
In addition to its high water content, watermelon is a highly nutritious fruit. It is a source of magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and B vitamins such as B1, B5 and B6. All of these nutrients play several important roles in health. Phosphorus, for example, together with calcium, strengthens the structure of bones and teeth. The B vitamins contribute to properly functioning the metabolism and nervous system.
Watermelon also contains various antioxidants, including vitamin C, carotenoids and lycopene. These compounds protect the body’s cells from free radicals and strengthen the immune system. Other benefits of antioxidants include their ability to stimulate collagen production, fight premature ageing, improve skin health and help prevent various diseases.
The lycopene contained in watermelon also has a very positive effect on the heart. The substance, responsible for the fruit’s red colour, works to control LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and blood pressure.
How to consume watermelon and reap all its benefits
Watermelon is a delicious fruit that appeals to most people. Eating it naturally or as a natural juice is the best way to enjoy its benefits. You can also use watermelon in recipes for fruit salads, mousses, homemade ice creams and other desserts.
There are no strict restrictions on the daily consumption of watermelon as long as it is consumed in moderation. Generally, eating a maximum of 3 medium-sized slices per day is recommended. However, people with diabetes should be more careful as the fruit has a high fructose content.
This natural sugar does not pose a significant health risk for most people. However, bodies that react poorly to insulin can experience a spike in blood sugar levels after eating fructose-containing foods.
So, all that’s left to do is wait until watermelon season starts in 2-3 months.
- source: dagens.de/picture:
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