Summer is characterized by abundant delicious fruits. One of the most-loved fruits is the watermelon. It is full of water and sugar, and a variety of nutrients and vitamins that confer on it a number of health benefits.

Watermelon is rich in water, sugar, and a great proportion of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, with a low amount of calories – the perfect summer fruit!

The general idea that people tend to have is that watermelons are great reserves of water (92 % of it) and sugar, and that’s it! However, this is not fully true. Content-wise, it is an extremely beneficial food, constituting a nutritious dessert for children and adult alike.

1. Watermelon consists of:

• Thiamin
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Vitamin B-6
• Folate
• Pantothenic Acid
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Zinc
• Copper
• Manganese
• Selenium
• Choline
• Lycopene
• Betaine

Also, watermelon is thought to contain the most lycopene as compared to any other fruit and vegetable.

One cup of watermelon contains 17% of vitamin A, 21% of vitamin C, 2% of iron, 1% of calcium needs of the day.

Watermelon has been shown to have a number of health benefits:-

2. Asthma

The high amount of nutrients (specially vitamin C) found in watermelons do wonders for those suffering from asthma.

3. Health of the heart

A study showed that watermelon decreases ankle blood pressure, brachial blood pressure and carotid wave reflection in obese adults.

The lycopene present in the fruit might help protect the health of the heart.

4. Cancer

Vitamin C which is an antioxidant might help to get rid of the free radicals characteristic of cancerous growths. Lycopene has also been linked with decreased risk of prostate cancer.

5. Digestion

The generous amount of water contained in watermelons together with the fiber content prevents constipation and maintains regularity for building a healthy digestive tract.

6. Hydration

Watermelons are 92 % water. On top of this, they have major electrolytes. They are therefore one of the best foods to prevent dehydration.

7. Inflammation

Choline present in watermelons has a number of health benefits, including reducing chronic inflammation.

Choline also boosts muscle development, learning, and memory.

8. Skin care

Vitamin A found in watermelons is great for the skin. It triggers sebum production which is good for hair moisturisation. Vitamin C is also extremely good for skin structure.