Watermelon is one of the nutritious fruits in the world today that belongs to the cucurbitacea family. It is filled with various nutrients including vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, B1, B5, B6, C, potassium and magnesium. It is also high in carrotenols including beta-carrotene, lycopene and citrulline which is an important amino acid. Here in this article, you’ll find out some health benefits that can be derived from taking watermelon.

1. Keeps you hrdrated:

Watermelon contains about 90% of water and taking water is an important way to keep the body hydrated and also helps you feel full without adding weight.

2. May help prevent cancer:

The lycopene in watermelon is said to have anti-cancer effect especially cancer of the digestive system, as it helps lower insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a protein involved in cell division. High IGF levels are linked to cancer. Also cucurbitacin E, another compound in watermelon, has the ability to inhibit tumor growth.

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3. Fights inflammation:

Watermelon can help fight inflammation and oxidative damage as it is rich in antiinflammatory and antioxidant such as lycopene and vitamin C. Also, lycopene can help improve brain health as it helps to delay the onset and progression of Alzheimer disease.

4. Prevent macular degeneration:

This is a common eye problem that can cause blindness in old adult. Lycopene as an antioxidant and antiinflammatory compound can help prevent Aged-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) from developing and getting worse.

5. Reduces blood pressure:

Watermelon has also been said to reduce blood pressure in and around the ankles of middle aged people with obesity and early hypertension. This is due to the presence of L-citrulline and L-arginine that can improve the function of the arteries. Also phytosterols in watermelon can help reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol which in turn can help prevent high blood pressure.

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6. Aids digestion:

Due to the high water content in it and fiber, watermelon can aid digestion thereby, preventing constipation and promoting regularity of bowel movements.

7. Boosts the brain and nervous system:

The presence of an antioxidant called choline in watermelon can be helpful in boosting the activities of the brain and nervous system as it contributes in aiding transmission of nerve impulse maintaining the structure of cell membranes, muscle movement, learning and memory.

8. Nourishes the skin:

Watermelon contains vitamin C which is necessary for the body to produce collagen for cell structure and immune function. At the same time, vitamin C also promotes wound healing and reduce the risk of age related damage to the skin.