Watermelon: 9 healthy reasons to eat this ultimate summer food Sure, watermelon tastes good. (You know, real watermelon, not any of that awful watermelon-flavored stuff.) And it is fun to eat, being one of the foods where youre allowed to get messy. But the large fruit is also quite healthy for you. In fact, there are several benefits one can derive from sitting down and eating a wedge of watermelon or a bowl of watermelon chunks. Here is some of the fruits healthy qualities built around a list compiled by Amanda Fiegl at National Geographic: 1. L-citruline: Watermelon contains an abundance of an amino acid called L-citruline. This is converted by the human body into L-carnitine, which plays a major role in relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation, thereby improving overall cardiovascular health. 2. Alleviates high blood pressure: Studies have shown that watermelon extract supplements helped alleviate high blood pressure in obese, middle-aged men. 3. Diuretic: Watermelon is a natural diuretic (as if the name isnt a straightforward giveaway) and good for hydration (because, as the name suggests, it is 90 percent water). This, of course, could eventually lead to the natural necessity of ridding oneself of excess water as well. 4. Natural Viagra: In the area of improved circulation, one study has found that watermelon has Viagra-like effects where increased circulation is a necessity. The study also indicated that the fruit might also have an effect on the libido, making it a two-for-one pre-romantic appetizer. 5. Vitamin and mineral rich: The body needs all sorts of vitamins and minerals to function. Watermelon provides several, but is heavy in vitamins A and C. It also contains a fair amount of potassium, which could be instrumental in alleviating hypertension and perhaps even stroke. 6. Low in calories: A cup of watermelon contains about 80 calories. 7. Low fat: According to Nutrition Data, the big green fruit has almost no fat per serving, so... 8: Low cholesterol: For those conscious of their cholesterol intake, watermelon contains no measurable cholesterol in a single serving. 9. Lycopene: Watermelon contains lycopene, an antioxidant that could possibly be a cancer combatant. One study from Queensland University of Technology in Australia indicated that lycopene could be an important preventive and source of treatment for prostate cancer. NB:Well, for one thing, it can help lower blood pressure in the obese. It’s also a natural diuretic that can help hydrate your body. It’s also a great sweet treat that’s still incredibly low in calories, and practically free from cholesterol and fat. On a side note, if you’re having a little trouble in the bedroom, the fruit even works as a natural aphrodisiac and a natural Viagra when circulation is the problem. Culled from Lifehack
Posted on: Thu, 08 May 2014 19:42:47 +0000
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