Summer is in and thirst is at its height. Drinking plain water quenches the thirst but sometimes it is not so appealing. People look out for tips to keep hydrated in a cool and refreshing way. There is loss of appetite for food. Pulpy fruits and vegetables do not appear attractive to consume during summers. Then what is the option? Fruits with a high content of water such as water melon is a nice alternative to beat the heat, remain hydrated, and yet to not have more sugars.
Advantages of watermelon as a fruit and drink
Watermelon is a relatively low cost fruit that is rich in water and potassium. Its high water content of about 90% is useful in hot weathers to keep a person hydrated. It also has several other useful vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants.
It is a member of Family Cucurbitaceae. It may be available with seeds, without seeds, mini forms, with red color pulp or with yellow pulp.
It has low calories but is sweet enough to satisfy the taste buds. The anti-oxidants relieve the body of toxins and free radicals and thus help in prevention of cancer and heart disease.
Other health benefits of watermelon
A 2012 study showed that watermelon can reduce blood pressure in elderly people and in those with obesity. L-citrulline and L-arginine are two anti-oxidants in water melon that serve this purpose. Lycophene, an anti-oxidant protects the heart. It balances blood cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. It aids digestion. It has fiber for a good bowel movement daily.
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| Water melon cut (Source: Britannica) |
Watermelon has choline that helps improve brain and muscle functions. It has been claimed that this slows dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It can minimize muscle soreness of athletes and aid early recovery. Its vitamin C content helps in collagen formation and hence is good for skin. Wound healing and immune function is assisted. It is good to reduce body weight and for overall well-being. Its diuretic effect is good for kidney patients and those with high blood pressure. It has other B complex vitamins, zinc, manganese, selenium, and fluoride.
Recipes with watermelon
The watermelon should be deseeded and cut fresh into cubes and consumed. One can make a juice of it and consume it. Or refrigerate it to make frozen pieces before consumption.
It can be made into a salad as a side dish with a dash of salt or fruit salt. One can have it as a smoothie. The water melon seeds can be roasted and have as a snack. The kernel is the edible part of the seed.
It has sugar and hence diabetics should avoid excess intake of it. Allergies to water melon is rare but if present, the fruit should be avoided.
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