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Watermelon Nutrition Facts
Regardless of whether you eat watermelon every day or just once in a while, you’re sure to enjoy it’s delicious flavor and refreshing taste. However, you might not know that it also has a number of health benefits, from its antioxidants to its sugars. So before you grab your next piece of watermelon, read through these watermelon nutrition facts so you can know all the good things about this summertime fruit!
Lycopene
During early studies on carotenoids in watermelon, open column chromatography was used. However, more recent studies have used HPLC. Using HPLC, carotenoids were separated and analyzed in five flesh colored watermelon cultivars. The position of the pigment bands on the column, characteristic shapes of the spectra, and the color of the pigment bands were used to identify carotenoids.
Carotenoids are responsible for the different flesh colors in watermelon. However, there are differences in the carotenoid patterns in different watermelon cultivars. These differences can be due to the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms in the carotenoid metabolic pathway. These mechanisms control the development of specific major carotenoids, which leads to accumulation of specific major carotenoids in watermelon.
Citrulline
Among the many plant compounds found in watermelon, citrulline is especially powerful. This amino acid helps the body produce nitric oxide, which is known to improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. It also helps wounds heal. Watermelon also contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene helps defend the body against cancer and certain cardiovascular disorders. Lycopene may also help prevent infection.
Moreover, citrulline may be beneficial for athletes by improving endurance during workouts. It may also increase arousal and support circulation. In addition, citrulline may help increase nitric oxide production. This may help prevent cardiovascular disorders, reduce inflammation, and promote normal blood pressure.
Antioxidants
Phytochemicals in watermelon have been shown to promote health by inhibiting the formation of reactive oxygen species and supporting the immune system. They have also been shown to improve brain function, ward off chronic diseases, and protect against cancer.
Lycopene, one of the phytochemicals in watermelon, has been studied as a potential antioxidant and may help fight age-related macular degeneration. It may also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Its antioxidant properties may slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. It is also believed to improve heart health.
Antioxidants help to prevent cell damage from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that contain an uneven amount of electrons. These molecules can react with other molecules to cause damage.
Calories
Despite its sweet, fruity taste, watermelon is low in calories and has many other health benefits. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce inflammation, and help you stay hydrated throughout the day. It is also an excellent source of antioxidants.
Watermelon contains high amounts of antioxidants such as vitamin C, lycopene, and citrulline. These nutrients are known to help combat cancer, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. They are also known to fight free radicals in the body, which can lead to various diseases and infections.
Watermelon is a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps to balance blood pressure. It also has a high concentration of magnesium, a mineral that helps to stimulate acid secretion. It also contains fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar.
Sugars
Several studies have investigated the dynamic changes in soluble sugar content during the ripening of watermelon fruit. During this process, soluble sugars and organic acids are interconverted to determine the organoleptic properties of fruit.
The main organic acids found in mature watermelon fruit are malic, citric, and oxalic acids. They have a profound effect on the overall organoleptic quality of watermelon.
Sugars in watermelon include fructose and glucose. They are mainly stored in the glycogen compartment of the fruit. Fructose can be used by the human body to replenish energy and enhance resistance. Fructose also enhances immunity. The glycemic load of watermelon is low, making it an ideal food for those with type 2 diabetes.
Health Benefits
Besides being a great source of lycopene, potassium and vitamins, watermelon’s health benefits include the ability to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and prevent cancer. It also can help manage diabetes and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
It’s a good source of antioxidants and vitamins C and A, which help protect your body from harmful free radicals. It can also bolster your immune system’s defenses against diseases. It’s also a good source of fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer.
Watermelon is a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. It also helps your body absorb iron. It’s also a good source for arginine, an amino acid that’s essential for glucose metabolism.
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