Watermelon is primarily associated with refreshment on hot days. Thanks to its high water content (up to 92%), it's an excellent thirst quencher, but that's just the beginning of its benefits. Watermelon contains a wealth of nutrients that can support health on many levels, including anti-cancer properties. Find out why it's worth including in your daily diet!
Watermelon Nutritional Values – More Than Just Water
Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit – 100 grams contain only about 30 calories. But behind these numbers lie valuable vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants:
✔︎ Lycopene – a strong antioxidant from the carotenoid group, which gives watermelon its red color.
✔︎ Vitamin C – supports immunity and regeneration processes.
✔︎ Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) – important for eye and skin health.
✔︎ Potassium – regulates blood pressure and affects heart function.
✔︎ Citrulline – an amino acid that supports circulation and muscle regeneration.
Thanks to this, watermelon, even though it consists mainly of water, has a real impact on our health.
Watermelon and its anticancer effects
Lycopene deserves special attention. Scientific studies show that regular consumption of lycopene-rich foods may reduce the risk of certain cancers, especially prostate, breast, and lung cancer. Lycopene neutralizes free radicals—molecules that damage DNA and can lead to cancer development.
It's worth noting that watermelon is one of the richest sources of lycopene in the diet—it contains even more than tomatoes! Interestingly, lycopene from watermelon is easily absorbed by the body, especially when consumed fresh or in juice.
Other health benefits of eating watermelon
In addition to its anti-cancer properties, watermelon also has other beneficial properties:
❤︎ Supports the cardiovascular system – thanks to potassium, citrulline and lycopene, it helps regulate blood pressure and improves the elasticity of blood vessels.
❤︎ Accelerates regeneration after exercise – citrulline reduces the feeling of muscle fatigue.
❤︎ Moisturizes the body and skin – high water content combined with vitamins makes watermelon perfectly hydrate and nourish the skin from the inside.
❤︎ Supports weight loss – low calories, high volume and natural sweetness make watermelon an ideal snack on a diet.
What is the best way to eat watermelon to take advantage of its properties?
Fresh, ripe watermelon has the most nutritional value – especially its red flesh. It's best to eat it with the white part of the peel, as that's where the most citrulline is found. It's also a good idea to make homemade watermelon juice or smoothie – without added sugar.
Summary
Watermelon is much more than just a summer snack full of water. It's a natural source of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can support heart health, aid regeneration, and, most importantly, reduce the risk of cancer. Therefore, it's worth enjoying its taste not only in summer – and remembering that this red, juicy sweetness holds the true power of nature.
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Author: Anna Żuchniewicz
