BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT WITH WATERMELON

Watermelons are mostly water — about 92 percent — but this refreshing fruit is soaked with nutrients. Each juicy bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, antioxidants and amino acids. There's even a modest amount of potassium. Plus, this quintessential summer snack is fat-free, very low in sodium and has only 40 calories per cup.

“Antioxidants help prevent damage, and cancer. Amino acids are the basic building block for protein, and protein is used in virtually every vital function in the body."

OTHER BENEFITS OF WATERMELONS

1.Kidney Disorders: Watermelons contain a lot of potassium, which is very helpful in cleaning or washing out the toxic depositions in the kidney. Moreover, it is helpful in reducing the concentration of uric acid in the blood, thereby reducing the chances of kidney damage and the formation of renal calculi in that organ. Added to this, being high in water content, it induces frequent urinating, which is again helpful for cleaning of the kidneys. Also, the anti oxidants present in watermelon ensure good health of the kidneys for a long time, and reduce signs of premature aging like wrinkles and age spots on the skin.

2.Helps Treat Inflammation

Another primary compound found in watermelons is lycopene, which has great benefits. In one American study, lycopene was found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.

Amongst the different carotenoids, lycopene is considered the best. In fact, the beneficial effects of lycopene for inflammation are considered even better than beta-carotene, an important carotenoid.

3. Keeps You Hydrated

Wondering what percentage of watermelon is water? As the name of the fruit implies, watermelon is 90% water, making it one of the best sources of hydration. It is far better than alcohol or caffeine in terms of being a diuretic. As it is a natural source, it increases urination without stressing the kidneys.

4. Helps Combat Cancer

Lycopene gets the credit, again. According to a study, lycopene in watermelons has been found to reduce the extent of cancer insurgence. Lycopene is the pigment that renders watermelons their characteristic red color, and since it is a powerful antioxidant, it prevents the onset of certain cancers.

A two-cup serving of watermelon contains about 20 milligrams of lycopene, which battles free radicals and protects against numerous types of cancer. According to a Chicago study, lycopene exhibits chemopreventive properties, especially in prostate cancer cells.

Lycopene has also been found useful in the treatment of HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, which might otherwise lead to uterine cancer.

5. Aids Digestion

Watermelon, as we have seen, contains huge amounts of water, and hence can aid digestion. It also contains fiber, thus promoting digestion and preventing constipation.