Contrary to the popular belief that watermelon is made up of only water and sugar, it is actually full of nutrients that provide high amounts of Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and a low amount of Calories.
Watermelons are great summer fruits and their refreshing quality and sweet taste help to combat the heat. They are also a guilt-free, low-maintenance dessert for kids and adults alike to enjoy.
Watermelons are a member of the botanical family Cucurbitaceae. There are five common types of watermelon: seeded, seedless, mini (also known as personal), yellow and orange.
Here are five benefits of including watermelons in your diet:
Anti-ageing
Free radicals in the human body are responsible for causing signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. Watermelon is a rich source of antioxidants like lycopene, Vitamin A and C. These help reduce free radicals in the body, thus reducing signs of ageing. Watermelon can be applied on the skin topically and consumed in order to get the best results.
Natural Toner
This juicy red fruit is a natural astringent that enhances the appearance of your skin by acting as a natural toner. For the best results, massage your skin with a fresh watermelon slice or blend it with honey.
Cures Acne
Watermelon is one of the best natural remedies for acne. If your skin is prone to acne or pimples, simply massage it with watermelon juice every day. Here are a few tips on how to use it:
- Cleanse your face thoroughly
- Dab a cotton ball in watermelon juice
- Apply it to your face.
- Leave for 15 minutes
- Rinse off with cold water
Promotes hair growth
Watermelon contains abundant amounts of phytonutrients called citrulline. These help increase the level of arginine in the body. Arginine is an amino acid that improves blood circulation and having watermelons in your diet helps to keep the blood pumping to your scalp. This helps to provide the proteins and minerals that encourage hair growth.
Cardiovascular Health
A diet low in fat and cholesterol and rich in antioxidants is conducive to a healthy heart. Watermelon is rich in an antioxidant called citrulline compound. This helps in maintaining good levels of histidine-arginine. This is essential for the production of nitric acid, which helps in maintaining the elasticity of the arteries and blood vessels by curbing the interactions of oxidative stress. Red watermelons, which are easy to find here in St. Lucia, are a rich source of antioxidants called lycopene that spread throughout the body, thus neutralising free radicals.. Lycopene also helps in reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
Watermelon Cooler
Ingredients
4 cups sliced seedless watermelon. Rind removed
1 cup lemon sorbet
1 lemon zest
1 ½ cups cold water
1 ¼ oz vodka (optional)
1 ¼ oz triple sec (optional)
Directions
Blend water melon, sorbet, and lemon zest until very smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cold water; cover and refrigerate until very cold. Serve over ice and garnish with watermelon wedges and mint. For that extra kick add rum.
Serves 2
