Top 5 health benefits of watermelon

Watermelon is super healthy & refreshing fruit that is also good for you. It contains only 47 calories 1 cup but is high in vitamin C, vitamin A & many healthy plant compounds.

Below are 5 health benefits of eating watermelon:

 

Help to prevent cancer:

Researchers have studied lycopene & other individual plant compounds in watermelon for their anti cancer effects. Though lycopene intake is associated with lower risk of some types of cancer, study results are mixed.

It appears to reduce cancer risk by lowering insulin like growth factor (IGF), a protein involved in cell division. High IGF levels are linked to cancer. Also cucurbitacin E has been investigated for its ability to inhibit tumour growth.

May improve heart health:

Heart disease is the number one cause of death all over world. Lifestyle factors, including diet, may lower your risk of heart attack and stroke by reducing blood pressure & cholesterol levels. Several nutrients in watermelon have specific benefits for heart health.

Experts suggest that lycopene may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It can also help prevent oxidative damage to cholesterol. According to studies in obese, postmenopausal women and Finnish men, lycopene may also reduce the stiffness and thickness of artery walls. 

May help to relieve muscle soreness: 

Citronella, an amino acid in watermelon, may reduce muscle soreness. It is also available as a supplement. Interestingly, watermelon juice appears to enhance the absorption of citronella.

One small study gave athletes plain watermelon juice, watermelon juice mixed with citrulline or a citrulline drink. Both watermelon drinks led to less muscle soreness and quicker heart rate recovery, compared to citrulline on its own.

Good for skin and hair: 

Two vitamins in watermelon A & C are important for skin and hair health. Vitamin C helps your body to make collagen, a protein that keeps your skin supple and your hair strong. Vitamin A is also important for healthy skin since it helps create and repair skin cells. Without enough vitamin A, your skin can look dry and flaky. 

May lower inflammation: 

Inflammation is a key driver of many chronic diseases. Watermelon may help lower inflammation and oxidative damage, as it is rich in the anti inflammatory antioxidants lycopene & vitamin C.