Watermelon is a Super food for your Heart, with one serving (one medium wedge or 1¾ cups) providing an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as a top source of lycopene for just 80 calories.
Lycopene is a colorful carotenoid that may reduce the risk of heart disease and a range of cancers, including prostate, ovarian, cervical, oral, pharyngeal, esophageal, stomach, colorectal, lung and pancreatic. Eating lycopene-rich tomatoes resulted in a 33% more protection against sunburn, according to a University of Manchester study.
Bonus: Studies show lycopene may also enhance male fertility, while another watermelon compound, the amino acid citrulline, found mostly in the rind, may function as a natural alternative to Viagra.
The fruit is said to be mildly diuretic and full of anti-oxidants. It is also a good source of thiamin, potassium and magnesium. What was more of interest to me was that it seems watermelon might be very helpful in fighting inflammations due to asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer and arthritis.
Watermelon consists mainly of water and lend themselves very well for a refreshing drink or a smoothie on a hot day. Try chopping up a watermelon in to bite size chunk, refrigerate them and serve them as a cold treat.