Watermelon Is One Of Summer's Most Popular Fruits, But Is It Healthy?

How to cut a watermelon in an original and interesting way

As summer approaches, our calendars begin to fill up with backyard barbecues, pool parties, and big family plans. More than 40 million kilograms of summer fruit in good condition will soon be consumed in abundance. This watermelon is definitely known for its bright colors, juicy crunch and juicy chunks.

But watermelon offers much more than just a delicious summer crop. Composed of over 90% water, the fruit is also highly hydrating and packed with electrolytes to help you recharge after a morning workout or afternoon game. It is packed with nutrients and can be a healthy snack for anyone trying to shed a few pounds.

Is watermelon healthy?

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Watermelon has many health benefits, including protecting joints from inflammation, improving digestion, and higher lycopene content than other fruits. Lycopene is an important antioxidant that reduces the risk of cancer and heart disease. Fruits are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which protects the body from harmful molecules called free radicals. Dr. Carol Johnston, professor of nutrition at Arizona State University, says watermelon is "also rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and beneficial phytochemicals." Phytochemicals stimulate the immune system and prevent DNA damage.

Fruits are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and "help increase your intake of potassium and magnesium, minerals that contribute to healthy blood pressure," says Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant at the American Institute for Cancer Research. "

Is Watermelon Too Much Sugar?

Although Johnston says watermelon "satisfies the sweet tooth," it contains less sugar than other popular fruits. Mangoes, grapes, cherries and pears contain more grams of sugar than watermelon. However, watermelon has about 17 grams per piece, so it's best not to eat too much right away.

Although the fruit is often eaten sliced, its "natural sweetness" makes it a good choice for mixing with other fruits and vegetables, and "salads can be healthy on top of everything else," says Collins.

Will watermelon help you lose weight?

Another health benefit of watermelon is that it's low in calories, making it a popular food when you're trying to drop a few pounds. Tara Schmidt, senior registered dietitian at the Mayo Clinic Diet, praises watermelon for weight management because “it's high in water, fiber, and low in calories. Water and fiber are two components of satiety, the feeling of fullness. explains.

One serving of watermelon contains less than 50 calories and contains 0.6 grams of fiber and 0.9 grams of protein.

Slices of watermelon are often used in smoothies to make juice, which "helps reduce the urge to choose sugary drinks," Collins explains. "And you can slice watermelon off a bowl or plate and feel full enough without intentionally overloading yourself with calories," she says.

It is good to eat watermelon every day.

Collins says that because of its many health benefits, "the USDA standard for watermelon is twice that of other fruits," and it's best to eat the fruit in moderation any day of the season.

Schmidt gives similar advice. "It's possible to eat too much of any food," he says, "but we often think of fruit consumption as relatively 'off-limits,' because more than 80 percent of Americans eat very few fruits and vegetables. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that only 1 in 10 adults get enough fruits and vegetables.

In other words, making the mistake of eating too much fruit is better than eating too little. However, Collins recommends pairing watermelon with other foods. "Filling your plate with anything other than watermelon leaves no room for other foods that provide the nutrients you need for overall health," she says. "But watermelon can be a great partner in helping you shape your eating habits and maintain a healthy weight."

Learn more about healthy eating.

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This article first appeared in USA TODAY. Watermelon is one of the most popular summer fruits, but is it healthy?