Many people have questioned the facts of watermelon, and have wondered how it is going to affect their diet and nutrition. There are many rumours suggesting it has a very high sugar and carbohydrate content. There is around 6.2 grams of sugar per 100grams, which is not as alarming as other fruits. Watermelon has large benefits which may overrule the sugar count in some people’s aspects, and the amount of goodness from the nutrients is phenomenal.
Watermelon has a very high water content of 88% and the other 12% is fibre. Water does not gain ‘fat’ and the fibre of the watermelon can be used as a colon cleanse; which will help remove the toxins in your body when consumed.
The fruit only has about 46 calories per cup, so if worried about the ‘fattening’ effects by simply measuring out the amount you are consuming can give you peace of mind.
So in conclusion to the research my opinion is to eat away, the effects of fullness that the watermelon can give will show a clear indicator when too much has been consumed or in a diet aspect just have 1 or 2 cups and it is safe to say you will not get ‘fat’.
Benefits of Watermelon:
- It Soothes Sore Muscles
Due to the large amounts of Amino Acids in watermelon it can reduce muscle soreness by relaxing blood vessels which help circulation.
The phenolic compounds in watermelon reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals. The more ripe the watermelon the more phenolic compounds it will contain, leading to better anti-inflammatory support.
High in potassium and has great natural electrolytes.These regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body.
- Good for you Heart
A study of post-menopausal women showed that the watermelon improved their cardiovascular health in just 6 weeks. Another great benefit was that the watermelon lowered the blood pressure of obese middle- aged adults.
- High in Vitamins and Minerals
A wedge of watermelon can contain a huge one-third of your daily value of vitamin A and C, also a big 9% of potassium.
- Help Cancer!
- Bone Health
The lycopene in watermelon is now thought to be related to improving our bone health. It reduces the oxidative stress, this will reduce the activity of Osteoblasts and Osteoclasts which will then predispose the bones to Osteoporosis. Watermelon is also high in potassium retaining calcium in the body.
- Reduces Body Fat
Citrulline can be found in watermelon, citrulline reduces accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Watermelon is also a natural diuretic which will help with flow of urine.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Support
- Muscle and Nerve Support
High in potassium and has great natural electrolytes.These regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body.
- Alkaline-forming
As watermelons have a alkaline-forming effect on the body it can help reduce the risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet.
- Improves Eye Health
Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene, which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.
- Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage
The vitamin C content in watermelon is very high. Vitamin C is essential in maintaining our immune system. It also assists in the healing of wounds and stimulating the deposition of new collagen.
Nutritional Facts
Vitamins and Minerals:
vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, zinc, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and iron.
- 1 cup watermelon -
Calories 48
Fat 0g
Carbohydrates 10g (1g dietary fibre)
Protein 1g
Nutrient RDAs 12mg calcium 1.2%
176mg potassium 6-8*
14mg vitamin C 23%
84 calories a wedge!
Richard Taylor Personal Training Club
Vitamins and Minerals:
vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, zinc, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and iron.
- 1 cup watermelon -
Calories 48
Fat 0g
Carbohydrates 10g (1g dietary fibre)
Protein 1g
Nutrient RDAs 12mg calcium 1.2%
176mg potassium 6-8*
14mg vitamin C 23%
84 calories a wedge!
Richard Taylor Personal Training Club
