Ten benefits of watermelon

There are days especially during summers when all of us crave to eat something refreshing and delicious. The first thing that pops in our minds is ice-cream. Despite the fact that ice-cream is toothsome, it is quite unhealthy. The perfect alternative of ice cream is watermelon as it is scrumptious and is an irreplaceable treat for a hot summer day.  It provides a guilt-free dessert for kids and adults to relish. On top of that it enriches the person with a lot of nutrients. Following are the ten benefits of watermelon -:

1.  Nutritional value

Each juicy bite is filled with powerhouse of nutrients. Watermelon has significant levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids. It is the ideal fruit to start your day with.

2.  Hydration

With sun glaring over our heads, it is extremely important to constantly remain hydrated. Watermelon contains 92% water. Thus it is not only a great snack but also a source of water. It keeps the body cool and prevents heat strokes.

3.  Helpful for kidneys

Watermelon is a natural diuretic that helps increase the flow of urine, but at the same time does not strain the kidneys. Watermelon also helps the liver process ammonia which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.

4.  Prevents cancer

Watermelon is a source of Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants; therefore it helps combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Lycopene, a carotenoid phytonutrient compound is present in watermelon and is increasingly being linked to cancer prevention.

5.  Improves immunity system

Due to presence of Vitamin C in watermelon, it helps in improving our immunity system. Vitamin C also contributes in healing wounds. If a person’s wounds do not heal easily then there are high chances that Vitamin C in his/her body might be low.

6.  Weight loss

Watermelon is a blessing for all those who wish to keep a check on their weight. Watermelon contains high amount of fiber and it prolongs fullness and we do not feel hungry quickly. It is specially recommended to people who wish to remove belly fat.

7.  Glowing skin and smooth hair

Watermelon contains Vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production that keeps hair moisturized. Also intake of Vitamin C provides structure to skin and hair. Water is the basic mantra for getting good hair and skin and that is present in watermelon in abundance.

8.  Blood Pressure

The high amount of potassium and magnesium in watermelon is very beneficial in terms of bringing down blood pressure. The carotenoids present in these fruits also prevent hardening of artery walls and veins, thereby helping to reduce blood pressure and the chances of blood clots, strokes and heart attacks.

9.  Diabetes

Patients suffering from Diabetes are under a lot of restriction regarding the food that they can eat. They are supposed to have low energy and low sugar diet. Watermelon can be a good supplement for them. In spite of being sweet in taste, very few calories are present in it, since ninety two percent of its total weight is composed of water and roughage.

10.            Improves eye health

Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps in producing pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness.