What vitamins are in watermelon? The healing properties and vitamin composition of watermelon - will the largest berry help you lose weight? What substances are in watermelon?

IN Lately Scientists talk a lot about the benefits of lycopene. This substance helps prevent the development of cancer. It is especially abundant in ripe tomatoes. However, recent studies have shown that watermelon contains much more lycopene than tomatoes. This benefit of watermelon is very important.

But is this large berry harmful to the body?

Africa is considered the birthplace of watermelon. The wild ancestors of this plant, which belongs to the pumpkin family, grow in the tropics. However, the “cultural” experiments that made the watermelon large (it used to be about the same size as a grapefruit) and sweet (wild watermelons of ancient times were bitter) belong to the Egyptians.

According to historical data, they began to deal with these issues back in 2000 BC.

Around the 8th century, this large berry came to Kievan Rus from India. The boyars and nobility immediately liked the watermelon. But only in the 17th century it began to be grown en masse in the central regions of Russia. During times intensive development

  • Genetics as a science began the second wave of experiments on the fruits of this vine. Watermelon, the benefits and harms of which have been questioned, has occupied many scientific minds. So, in 1952 in Japan, Kihara developed a variety that was characterized by the following characteristics:
  • High sugar content - more than 12%
  • Good transportability
  • Possibility of long-term storage.

Composition of watermelon

The benefits of watermelon for health and the body when losing weight are obvious, since the nutritional value The fruit of this plant contains only 25 kcal. So, if you eat a 5-kilogram watermelon, the body will receive only 125 kcal with a daily requirement of 1500 to 2500 kcal.

The nutritional value

The low nutritional value of this juicy berry is due to the fact that the content of basic organic substances in it is as follows:

Moreover, 100 grams of watermelon pulp contains approximately 92-95 milliliters of water. That is why watermelon diets were created, which are highly effective.

Vitamins

What vitamins are in watermelon? The main ones are:

per 100 grams of product vitamin content mg
Vitamin A 0.017
Vitamin B1 0.04
Vitamin B2 0.06
Vitamin B3 0.3
Vitamin B6 0.09
Vitamin B9 0.008
Vitamin C 7
Vitamin E 0.1

However, what nutrients watermelon contains depends on its growing conditions. The most useful fruits satisfy the following requirements:

  • Grown in open ground
  • Maturation occurred under natural conditions, that is, without the use of growth and ripening accelerators
  • Watermelon plantations are located far from highways
  • The level of nitrates does not exceed the permissible limit.

Vitamins in watermelon are also contained in its seeds. They are especially rich in cholecalciferol (vitamin D), which is actively involved in bone mineralization and strengthening teeth. Watermelon seeds contain a lot of B vitamins, carotenoids, zinc, selenium and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Therefore, nutritionists recommend using them for various diseases of the nervous system, as well as for increased psycho-emotional anxiety in the body.

Minerals

In addition to vitamins, watermelon contains many of the following microelements:

Product benefits

Beneficial properties for the body:

  • Improves filtration of blood plasma in the kidneys
  • Swelling is eliminated
  • Intestinal motility is stimulated due to the high pectin content in watermelon pulp
  • The enzymatic processes of the digestive system are stimulated, which is especially good for pregnant women
  • Accelerates the removal of “bad” cholesterol from the body
  • The activity of the immune system increases, which resists various infectious diseases.

Therefore, we can single out a group of people who are especially beneficial from these large berries. They are recommended to eat approximately 2-2.5 kg per day. This group includes people with the following diseases and pathological conditions:

  • Cardiac ischemia
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Kidney failure
  • Edema due to hypofunction of the thyroid gland
  • Kidney stone disease
  • Gout
  • Atherosclerosis.

Possible harm

Is there any health risk for the fetus? This question is of interest to many admirers of this huge and tasty berry. It should be noted that watermelon can be harmful to those who have a number of diseases and contraindications. The latter include:

  • Urinary retention
  • Diarrhea and constipation, which are a consequence of colitis
  • Diabetes
  • Inflammation of the kidneys - pyelonephritis
  • Pancreatitis
  • Prostatitis.

Despite the benefits, watermelon for pregnant women is most likely capable of causing harm. This is due to the fact that when growing this berry, a large amount of nitrates is used. If nitrates enter the body in excess, they can cause poisoning. Signs of nitrate poisoning are expressed by the following symptoms:

  • Pain in the right hypochondrium and abdomen
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea followed by constipation
  • Weakness
  • Malaise, etc.

If at least one of the listed symptoms or any other signs appear, a pregnant woman should immediately consult a doctor. Otherwise, it may negatively affect the health of both mother and child. For treatment, plenty of fluids, enterosorbents and drugs that improve digestive processes are prescribed.

Thus, the benefits of watermelon are associated with the vitamins and microelements it contains. However, in order not to harm the body, it is necessary to choose only high-quality fruits that have grown without the use of various chemicals (growth accelerators, pesticides, etc.). When consuming food, special care should be taken by pregnant women, who are responsible not only for themselves, but also for their baby.

Watermelon is an excellent fruit to quench your thirst, which contains... large quantities Lycopene and Vitamin A. Delicious and juicy, watermelons are an excellent source of essential water and electrolytes needed during hot summer temperatures.

Watermelon originated from southern African countries, from where it spread to tropical and subtropical regions.

Externally, the fruit has a smooth, dark green and yellow, thick outer skin with light green or gray vertical stripes on the surface. The inner flesh is juicy and has different colors, such as pink, red or yellow, depending on the type of variety. Watermelon has a neutral flavor, similar to plain sweet water (light sugar syrup).

Varieties of watermelon fruit are grown throughout the world, differing in size, shape and flesh color (red, orange and yellow).

In this article, we will tell you what vitamins watermelon contains, how it is beneficial for the body, how to choose and store it, and what dangers it can be fraught with.

Benefit for health

Even though watermelon is 90% water, they also contain vitamins A, B6, C, lycopene, antioxidants and minerals. Surely you've heard that lycopene, which is also found in tomatoes and gives them their red color, is a valuable phytonutrient. 150 g of watermelon contains 1.5 times more lycopene than a large tomato. Lycopene is different from some other antioxidants in that it is very stable and does not lose its effect even after being refrigerated for a long time. Lycopene is believed to be even more effective than its ally beta-carotene.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Lycopene is a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant that plays an important role in the health of your cardiovascular system and your bones. In addition to lycopene, watermelons contain another important phytonutrient called citrulline. Citrulline is an amino acid and is converted into L-arginine in the body.

A study at the University of Florida found that watermelon can significantly lower blood pressure, especially in overweight people. Like this? The body uses arginine to create nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax and open. As a result, your blood pressure drops and your heart can better oxygenate your body. The resulting citrulline L-arginine may also prevent excess fat accumulation by blocking the enzyme responsible for fat deposition.

As a precursor to nitric oxide, citrulline, such as Viagra, may also help prevent erectile dysfunction, although in this case you would need to eat a lot of watermelon to achieve the same effect as Viagra.


Carotenoids and heart attack risk

In a study of more than 13,000 American adults, particularly low levels of carotenoids were found to be an important predictor of premature death. Specifically, low levels of lycopene.

There are several studies that show a strong link between low lycopene levels and heart disease. For example, an analysis from the Physicians' Health Study showed a reduced risk of stroke in 39% of women with the highest high level lycopene. A 12-year study from Finland with more than 1,000 men came to the same conclusion.

Additionally, lycopene may inhibit an enzyme in the body that is responsible for producing cholesterol. From which we can conclude that eating foods rich in lycopene can lower cholesterol levels.

Lycopene and cancer risk

Even in terms of prostate cancer, there is only good feedback about lycopene. Several studies have shown that consuming lycopene-containing foods and increasing serum lycopene levels can significantly reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Further research shows that lycopene may also successfully prevent lung cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, colon and cervical cancer.

Great for rehydration

Red fruits are 90% water and are full of electrolytes and potassium that hydrate or dehydrate your body. Thus, watermelons are an ideal fruit for hot summer days or after exhausting workouts. Delicious juice may also help prevent muscle inflammation the next day.

Table

This table describes the nutritional value of vitamins and minerals in watermelon.

indicator per 100 g
Nutritional value RDA percentage
energy 30 kcal 1,5%
carbohydrates 7.6 g 6%
protein 0.6 g 1%
Total fat 0.15 g 0,5%
cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Dietary fiber 0.4 g 1%
Vitamins
B9 3 mcg 1%
B3 0.178 mg 1%
B5 0.221 mg 4,5%
B6 0.045 mg 3,5%
B1 0.033 mg 3%
A 569 IU 19%
WITH 8.1 mg 13,5%
E 0.05 mg 0,5%
Electrolytes
sodium 1 mg 0%
potassium 112 mg 2,5%
minerals
calcium 7 mg 0,7%
copper 42 mcg 4,5%
Iron 0.24 mg 3%
magnesium 10 mg 2,5%
manganese 0.038 mg 1,5%
zinc 0.10 mg 1%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-α 303 mcg
Crypto-xanthine-β 78 mcg
Lutein-zeaxanthin 8 mcg
Lycopene 4532 mcg


Selection and storage

Although watermelons can be grown at any time of the year in tropical conditions, the best watermelons grow during the summer months. At markets, try to buy organically grown fruits as they are richer in flavor and nutrients.

It is often difficult to judge ripeness and flavor without checking the wedge-shaped section of the watermelon. Look for fruit that is heavy for its size, with a smooth skin that is not too shiny, and without any cuts or dents on the surface that may have occurred during transportation.

At home, place the fruit in a cool, well-ventilated place. However, cut watermelons should be stored in the refrigerator.

Safety

Allergies to watermelon are rare, and everyone can enjoy it safely. Its seeds are usually not consumed, but if they accidentally enter the body, it’s okay, they are not toxic.

What vitamins are in watermelon and what are its benefits? How many of us have asked this question? For most, watermelon is more about a pleasant taste than a benefit. It's time to explain how many useful substances it contains.

Origin of watermelon

Watermelon is a berry that is the fruit of an annual herbaceous plant. Represents a pumpkin different sizes, from a large apple to a fruit weighing more than 10 kg, with a mottled green rind and light yellow to dark red flesh with white veins.

The modern name has its origins in the Turkic “harpuz”, which meant “melon”. South Africa is considered the birthplace of this berry, but there are mentions of watermelons in the ancient Egyptian chronicles of the 20th century BC. IN Ancient Rome they were even salted and honey was made from them, then these “melons” were considered food for the nobility. The Arabs attributed the healing power of cleansing the body to green fruits, and the Chinese held holidays dedicated to watermelon.

One thing is clear - the sweet, bright fruit has always been a favorite and desired treat for different nations around the world.

What substances does watermelon contain and what are its benefits?

The red berry contains more than 90% water, which means that it has diuretic, choleretic and laxative properties, which together gives a good cleansing effect to the body. After cleansing the body, as a rule, metabolism normalizes and a person’s general well-being improves. Our red sweetness is a helper for those losing weight and people with chronic fatigue.

The bright pulp consists of almost 13% glucose, sucrose and fructose.

There are enough vitamins in watermelon, among them:

  • carotene(0.1 mg) and (0.017 mg) - antioxidants that prevent the occurrence of cancer, are responsible for visual acuity and youthful skin;
  • vitamin C, or(7 mg) - an antioxidant that supports the body’s protective functions and strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
  • , or tocopherol(0.1 mg) - another antioxidant that prolongs youth, affecting the condition of the skin, hair, and nails;
  • , or thiamine(0.04 mg per 100 g) - regulates metabolism;
  • B2, or(0.06 mg) - helps in the formation of antibodies and supports thyroid function;
  • B3, or(0.3 mg) - prevents atherosclerosis, improves blood microcirculation, has a positive effect on brain function;
  • , or pyridoxine (0.09 mg) - is a stimulator of metabolic processes in the body, as a result it improves overall well-being and gives a surge of energy;
  • B9, or(0.008 mg) - promotes correct and complete absorption , which in turn is responsible for the formation of red blood cells.

Among the microelements we can distinguish:

  • Potassium(110 mg per 100 g) - is responsible for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system, the absorption of carbohydrates and the construction of protein.
  • Sodium(16 mg) - helps in the functioning of the nervous system, strengthens blood vessels.
  • Calcium(14 mg) - strengthens bones, teeth, is good for muscles and vision, but few people know that it also supports blood clotting.
  • Magnesium(12 mg) - Helps maintain health for people with kidney and heart disease. Magnesium is essential building material for nerve cells and muscle tissue.
  • Phosphorus(7 mg) - together with calcium, makes bone tissue stronger.
  • Iron(1 mg) - is responsible for the amount of hemoglobin produced in the body.

Is watermelon always healthy?

Unfortunately, there are also pitfalls when consuming everyone’s favorite berry. The number of watermelons containing nitrates is not uncommon in our time. Nitrates- these are not dangerous salts in themselves, but when they enter the body, they form nitrite compounds, which become poisonous. Simply put, consumption of such a product may lead to poisoning . Probably almost all of us have encountered this.

Experts recommend buying later harvests, not the first or second. This will not protect against nitrates, but will make consumption much safer for humans, especially for small children. The peel contains the most nitrates, so eating it is not only tasteless, but also harmful. It is advisable to cut off the peel after the pulp begins to appear.

There is a simple home method for determining the presence of nitrates in watermelon. To do this, take a small piece of pulp and pour half a liter into it. warm water. If the water turns color bright color, then the presence of poisons in it is undeniable. If it turns cloudy or slightly pinkish, it is unprocessed and therefore edible.

How to choose the right watermelon?

What you need to pay attention to:

  1. Integrity. The fruit should not be bruised or cracked.
  2. Smoothness. The peel should be shiny and smooth to the touch, not soft, without limp areas. And the side on which the watermelon lay on the ground, the so-called earthen spot, should be uniformly yellow.
  3. Sound when tapping dull on the skin, when compressed the berry is cracking.
  4. Drawing bright and clear.
  5. peduncle dry.
  6. The watermelon itself large, but not heavy.

Now in supermarkets you can find an abundance of a wide variety of giant berries, ranging from those familiar to us from countries Central Asia and ending with Japanese ones of the most varied shapes without seeds. Remember that everything is good in moderation, especially for foods with a high likelihood of containing nitrates.

Fragrant watermelon is a classic summer delicacy. The crunch of a ripe berry being cut opens your appetite and lifts your spirits. The huge fruits, green on the outside and bright red on the inside, are loved for their fresh, incomparable aroma and juiciness. Watermelons are not only tasty, but also healthy: the composition makes the product an indispensable aid for many diseases and weight loss.

From the article you will learn what vitamins and nutrients are contained in watermelon pulp, whether watermelon contains iron, zinc, manganese and other trace elements, and how the berry affects men's and women's health.

Pleasant taste and juicy pulp of striped berries explained by its rich chemical composition:

  1. The basis of watermelon is water (85–90%), it contains a lot of fructose, glucose and sucrose (from 5 to 13%), there is pectin and fiber (0.5%).
  2. It contains more than 13 vitamins necessary for the human body.
  3. Saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6, which have high biological activity, supply the body with energy, provide mechanical protection and thermal insulation, remove cholesterol, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
  4. Macroelements (potassium, calcium, silicon, magnesium, sodium, sulfur, phosphorus and chlorine) and microelements (aluminum, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine) even in small quantities ensure the harmonious functioning of the whole organism.
  5. Flavonoids - plant polyphenols - have antioxidant properties and neutralize free radicals.

And also in fresh watermelon many essential and non-essential amino acids, important for protein synthesis:

  • valine - responsible for nitrogen metabolism in cells;
  • isoleucine - regulates blood sugar levels, participates in the synthesis of hemoglobin and protein in the liver, the production of growth hormone, regenerates tissue;
  • phenylalanine - promotes blood circulation, participates in the formation of insulin;
  • threonine - regulates the metabolism of proteins and fats, prevents fatty liver, strengthens the immune system;
  • citrulline - eliminates ammonia and nitrogenous waste from the blood.

Vitamins and minerals

The vitamins contained in all parts of the watermelon are of particular value: the human body is not able to synthesize them on its own.

Vitamins in pulp:

Name Content per 100 g, mg Effect on the human body
Ascorbic acid (C)
  • participates in metabolism;
  • removes toxins;
  • necessary for connective and bone tissues.

A lack of vitamin C leads to muscle pain, scurvy, bleeding gums, tooth loss, and heart disease.

Riboflavin (B2)
  • participates in the formation of red blood cells and antibodies in the blood;
  • normalizes the functioning of the reproductive organs and thyroid gland;
  • responsible for the condition of nails, skin and hair.

A deficiency leads to diseases of the visual organs: photophobia, conjunctivitis, cataracts, optic nerve atrophy, nervous system dysfunction and anemia.

Thiamine (B1)
  • activates the work of the central nervous system;
  • participates in the processes of digestion and hematopoiesis;
  • necessary to maintain water-salt balance and carbohydrate metabolism in cells;
  • removes toxins.

Deficiency leads to disruption of thermoregulation and functioning of the nervous system, shortness of breath, and depression.

Folic acid (B9)
  • participates in the synthesis of serotonin, norepinephrine, nucleic acids;
  • indispensable in the process of blood formation and cell division, growth and normal functioning of all organs;
  • improves skin condition;
  • strengthens the immune system.

The deficiency disrupts the activity of the stomach, pancreas, kidneys, intestines, causes inflammation of the mucous membrane, a feeling of fear, and mood disorders.

Pyridoxine (B6)
  • participates in the formation of hemoglobin;
  • prevents heart disease.

Indicated after operations or in case of a sluggish course of an infectious disease.

Vitamin A
  • plays a major role in the photochemical processes of vision;
  • necessary for normal growth;
  • affects the permeability of cell membranes.

Deficiency leads to gastrointestinal diseases, premature aging, and eye diseases.

Vitamin B3 (PP)
  • participates in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats;
  • involved in the production of insulin;
  • prevents the development of skin cancer.

Indicated for gastritis, liver and kidney diseases, skin diseases. Deficiency leads to depression, insomnia, irritability, headaches, gastrointestinal dysfunction (diarrhea, heartburn, nausea), and decreased mental activity.

Tocopherol (E) Has antioxidant properties: removes cholesterol and free radicals.

Many people don’t think about what vitamins are contained in watermelon rind and throw it away. In addition to those listed above, it contains beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A). It is responsible for the health of the sex glands and has antioxidant and immunostimulating properties. With a lack of carotene, the functioning of the genitourinary system and brain is disrupted, and pain sensitivity increases.

Many micro- and macroelements contained in watermelon are even more valuable e, because they are rare, and without them the body begins to malfunction:

Name Content per 100 g, mg Functions
Potassium 112
  • provides acid-base balance;
  • regulates water-salt metabolism;
  • responsible for the functioning of the heart.
Sodium 1
  • normalizes water and acid-base balances;
  • participates in the formation of digestive enzymes;
  • together with potassium, it creates conditions for muscle contractions.
Calcium 7
  • involved in the formation of bone tissue;
  • regulates blood clotting, muscle contractions, synthesis of hormones and mediators.
Magnesium 10
  • regulates the functioning of the nervous system;
  • reduces blood pressure and blood sugar levels;
  • relieves fatigue;
  • prevents miscarriages.
Phosphorus 11 Participates in the production of hormones, metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and cell division.
Iron 0,2
  • as part of hemoglobin, it ensures the transport of oxygen in the blood;
  • normalizes blood circulation;
  • strengthens the immune system;
  • increases physical activity.
Zinc 0,1
  • protects DNA from destruction;
  • plays an important role in enzymatic reactions (even a slight deficiency of zinc leads to serious diseases).

Due to its composition, watermelon is often used for preventive and rehabilitation purposes. people suffering from diseases of the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, and vitamin deficiency.

Calorie content

low, despite its high sugar content. This is explained by the fact that the pulp consists of 90% water, which has no calories. Therefore, 100 g of fresh delicacy contains only 27 kcal.

Interesting! There are more than 1,200 varieties of watermelon in the world, which are grown in different climatic conditions, which means they contain unequal amounts of fructose and sucrose. On average, 100 g of sugar berry contains up to 35 kcal.

During heat treatment, the calorie content of the product increases due to added sugar or honey. So, 100 g is 30 kcal, juice - more than 35 kcal.

Can it be used for weight loss?

Watermelon is added because of its low calorie content:

  • it is used as the basis of a mono-diet - in this case, the daily norm of the delicacy should not exceed 2.5 kg (2000–2500 kcal);
  • the pulp is combined with other low-calorie products ( rye bread, chicken breast, zucchini and others).

Important! In pursuit of perfect figure, exhausting themselves with “quick” diets, many forget that when losing weight, beneficial substances are “washed out” of the body. Watermelon saturates with vitamins and microelements.

Fiber in the fruit improves gastric motility, promotes the removal of toxins and fluids. These features allow a person who is losing weight to “lose” several kilograms of excess weight.

Glycemic index

The glycemic index (GI) of any product indicates the speed of its digestion and release of glucose.

Watermelon GI is 60–70 units- this is a relatively high figure.

Reference. The higher the GI, the faster foods are broken down, sugar enters the blood, and the pancreas begins to produce insulin. This hormone suppresses glucose, and the person experiences hunger again. High GI foods are not suitable for weight loss.

Due to its high water content The sweet berry does not lead to excessive consumption of carbohydrates that saturate the body, therefore it is indicated in dietary nutrition.

Useful properties of watermelon

Due to the large amount of vitamins and microelements, watermelon is consumed as a preventive and therapeutic agent for many diseases:

  • lycopene normalizes arterial pressure, improves blood flow, has a beneficial effect on the heart and blood vessels, prevents the development of cancer cells (products with it are prescribed during recovery from chemotherapy);
  • calcium is indicated for people with high bone fragility;
  • vitamin A prevents degenerative processes in the organs of vision, improves hair follicles;
  • Vitamin C improves immunity, improves overall well-being, and is involved in the production of collagen, which is responsible for the health of the skin;
  • B vitamins increase vital energy, level of resistance to negative external factors;
  • water rich in vitamins and microelements cleanses the kidneys, removes toxins, and fiber cleanses the intestines;
  • the complex of all components of watermelon fights obesity.

The undoubted benefits of watermelon make it one of the most useful dietary products.

Benefits for men

Many people do not know the fact that watermelon is extremely beneficial for men:

  • lycopene and citrulline contained in the berry restore and enhance sexual potency. Their action is similar to medications that increase a man’s sexual activity, but has no side effects;
  • for men involved in strength sports, watermelon will help in building muscle mass, and also after training as a means of removing lactic acid from the body;
  • Treatment of prostate adenoma will be more effective if you consume watermelon pulp 3-4 times a day for 2-3 weeks or drink 2 tbsp. watermelon juice per day (2 weeks).

Benefits for women

Watermelon also solves women's problems:

  • substances contained in the seeds stop uterine bleeding;
  • watermelon pulp is used as a cosmetic moisturizing and rejuvenating mask: it is applied to gauze and then to the face for 25–30 minutes;
  • watermelon with rye bread helps you lose weight without harming your health (consume 2 kg of dietary product per 10 kg of body weight per day for 4–6 days).

Watermelon is also good for pregnant women as a fortified and mineralized product.

Gynecologists watermelon is prescribed to expectant mothers:

  • in order to restore the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and prevent constipation;
  • to relieve stress, insomnia, normalize the functioning of the nervous system;
  • to remove toxins and excess fluid from the body, to combat swelling;
  • to saturate the body with vitamins and microelements.

It is important for breastfeeding women to consume watermelon in small quantities., since pulp increases the risk of diarrhea in babies.

Important! Freshly squeezed berry juice is useful for chronic liver and kidney diseases, urolithiasis of the gallbladder, cystitis in women and urinary incontinence in children.

The benefits of fresh watermelon have been proven by many studies. and application in traditional and folk medicine.

Possible harm and contraindications

Despite its enormous benefits, watermelon can also cause harm to humans. This is due to chronic diseases or an acute course of the disease, when eating the fetus causes an outflow of fluid, and with it, medications. Excessive consumption of striped berries causes diarrhea, vomiting, heaviness in the stomach, and worsens the general condition of a person.

Important! When purchasing, choose a whole, uncut and uncracked fruit, since due to the high air in the open air, fermentation processes quickly begin in it, which often cause poisoning.

List of diseases for which watermelon is excluded from the diet or eat it carefully:

  • accompanied by diarrhea, cramps and vomiting;
  • the presence of large kidney stones and bladder: a large amount of fluid can provoke the movement of stones, which will lead to intense pain and the need for surgical intervention;
  • disturbance of urine outflow, colitis.

Watermelon is capable of accumulating, especially if it was fed with chemicals for rapid ripening. When watermelons are consumed early (in May–July), severe poisoning with these substances often occurs.

Conclusion

A ripe watermelon is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals contained in the pulp, rind and seeds. Its regular use in the summer replenishes the lack of nutrients in the body and strengthens the immune system.

Despite the high glycemic index and the amount of sugars, the berry is low in calories, consists of 90% water, and therefore forms the basis of many dietary diets. The fruit is equally valuable for men and women. In case of certain diseases, it is eaten with caution.

Watermelon is a long-awaited summer crop. All over the world, huge quantities of these fruits are consumed every year because they quench thirst well and are pleasant to the taste. In addition, watermelons are a good diuretic and help get rid of extra pounds, but in fact, the range of beneficial effects of melons is much wider. Find out more about the benefits of this fruit and how to use it correctly.

Origin story

It is believed that the birthplace of watermelon is South Africa. Here to this day you can find a wild species of crop, colocynth, closely related to the modern plant. But based on genetic studies, it was assumed that colocynth and modern culture there is a common ancestor, most likely Citrullus ecirrhosus ("tsamma melon"), which still grows in the Kalahari Desert. It is used by the Bedouins as a source of drinking water.

Did you know? Russian word“watermelon” is borrowed from the Kipchak language and originates from the word “χarbuz”.

This fruit contains a significant amount of various substances. Their list determines its beneficial effect on the human body.

Vitamins

List of vitamins that fruit pulp is rich in:

  • nicotinic acid (B3) - 0.2 mg;
  • beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A) - 0.1 mg;
  • retinol (A) - 17 mcg;
  • thiamine (B1) - 0.04 mg;
  • riboflavin (B2) - 0.06 mg;
  • pyridoxine (B6) - 0.09 mg;
  • folic acid (B9) - 8 mcg;
  • ascorbic acid (C) - 7 mg;
  • tocopherol (E) - 0.1 mg.

Minerals

Macroelements contained in the culture:

  • calcium - 14 mg;
  • magnesium - 12 mg;
  • sodium - 16 mg;
  • potassium - 110 mg;
  • phosphorus - 7 mg.

Among the microelements in the culture, only iron is present.

The substances present in the huge berry allow it to be used in medicinal purposes not only the pulp, but also the peel and seeds. In folk medicine, the fruit is used to normalize the functioning of the genitourinary and cardiovascular systems, for anemia, fevers and other ailments.


Improved kidney function

The main advantage of watermelon over other crops is that it does not contain a significant amount of acids and salts, but at the same time it is rich in alkalis, which makes it an excellent choleretic agent. In addition, all alkaline compounds can improve kidney function.

Their activity is also enhanced by the water and magnesium present in the fruit: water makes the organs work more actively, and magnesium protects the body as a whole from the accumulation of salts and the formation of stones. This active cleansing process allows you to get rid of cholelithiasis, urolithiasis, and nephritis.

Important! The diuretic effect of watermelon can be a little inconvenient, as it forces you to use the toilet frequently, especially for pregnant women who already have frequent urination.

The melon culture contains the amino acid L-citrulline, which is inextricably linked with the amino acid L-arginine, without which the synthesis of nitric oxide does not occur in the body. It is involved in the regulation of vascular tone and blood pressure levels.


After the first amino acid enters the body, it is instantly converted into the second - this is a significant plus, since for many, consuming L-arginine in its pure form causes nausea and indigestion. The fruit also contains vitamins A, B6, C, which support the activity of the heart and blood vessels.

Normalization of the cardiovascular system

Magnesium, iron, and potassium present in the culture are very important for blood formation processes and for the normal functioning of the heart and blood vessels. In addition to them, there is fiber, which stimulates the elimination of bad cholesterol. Ascorbic and folic acid help fight atherosclerosis and increased level blood sugar.

Important! Children under 2 years old should not be fed watermelon. At the age of 2-3 years, a child’s diet may contain 80100 g of fruit per day. Children 46 years old can be given 150 g per day.

There are no special restrictions on the consumption of watermelon. It can be combined with all foods and can be taken at any time. But it should not be abused. For an adult body, the maximum daily intake is 500 g. If you want to go on a watermelon diet, then you can eat a maximum of 1500 grams per day, dividing this portion into several meals.


Rules for using culture:

  1. Check the fruit for the presence of nitrates. To do this, grind the pulp and pour a glass of water over it: a high-quality product will make the water cloudy, and a low-quality product will turn red or pink.
  2. Do not use the fruit if there are contraindications.
  3. Always wash watermelon before eating.
  4. Do not buy cut fruit to be sure that putrefactive processes have not begun in it.
  5. Do not eat the pulp right down to the skin. It is better to leave 1–1.5 cm of adjacent pulp, since it is in this layer that there may be nitrates if they have already gotten inside.

Contraindications for eating berries

To those who increased acidity and have problems with the pancreas, it is better to refuse this summer delicacy. Because of large quantities fiber pulp is not suitable for those who have acute gastrointestinal ailments or inflammatory processes in the digestive system. People with allergies need to be extremely careful; The amino acid L-citrulline may be dangerous for some.

As you can see, this melon culture is very useful for our body. In addition to the diuretic effect, it has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. A beneficial effect, of course, is only possible if the product is of high quality, without nitrates, and eaten in moderation.



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