Watermelons are a tropical fave. Thanks to singer Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar, we have a cool tune too. Besides quenching the thirst of the blistering heat, watermelons promote many aspects of health too. Take a look at the wonders of watermelon that may be helpful in these four areas:
- Hydration & Satiety
Just like the name suggests, watermelons are full of water. 92% to be exact! Plus, the high water content also means the melon has a low-calorie density. So, this fruit keeps you hydrated and full longer. All the more reasons to nibble on some watermelon.
- Heart Health
Citrulline, an amino acid found in watermelon may increase nitric oxide levels in the body. Nitric oxide aids in expanding blood levels and lowering blood pressure.
Lycopene, a plant compound also found in watermelons can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Coupled with other heart-healthy vitamins and minerals, watermelons sure do love your heart.
- Eye Health
Many elderlies struggle with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This eye disease can blur your central vision and cause blindness. In some studies, lycopene in watermelons was found to act as a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound in preventing and inhibiting AMD.
In case you were unaware, lycopene is also responsible for the cheerful red colour of the fruit. So, pick a bright red melon rather than yellow or orange. Watch out for seedless varieties as well, as they contain more lycopene than those that do.
- Skin Health
Watermelons are abundant in Vitamins A and C, and these two are essential for youthful skin. The former helps create and repair skin cells while the latter helps the body make collagen, a protein that keeps your skin supple and hair strong.
So it’s no wonder beauty brands include watermelon-infused sheet masks and eye patches on their list of must-haves.
Sources: Healthline, WebMD, Cleveland Clinic