Medical professional in Chelyabinsk debunks watermelon misconception
In the heat of summer, Ugnivenko provides reasons for giving up ice cream and soda and suggests replenishing the body's fluids with more beneficial options, such as plain water, tea, compotes, or fruit drinks. Two such options are watermelons and cantaloupes, which are rich in hydration and essential nutrients.
Watermelons and cantaloupes contain minimal calories and are almost 90% water, making them an excellent choice for rehydration. One cup (about 150 g) of watermelon provides hydration, is low-calorie (around 46 kcal), and contains important nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A (beta-carotene), potassium, magnesium, lycopene, and the amino acid citrulline.
Potential health benefits of watermelon flesh for adults include:
- Hydration: Watermelon is about 91–92% water with electrolytes and antioxidants, making it excellent for rehydration compared to sugary drinks.
- Nutrient supply: Provides vitamin C (about 12.5 mg per 154 g cup), which supports immune function, and vitamin A for eye and skin health.
- Liver and digestion support: May aid liver function by helping process ammonia, and its mild alkalinity can relieve acid reflux.
- Cardiovascular and sexual health: Contains citrulline, which may improve blood flow and support erectile function by relaxing blood vessels similarly to Viagra, though it does not directly increase testosterone levels.
- Weight management: Consuming watermelon may enhance satiety and assist with weight control due to its high water and fiber content.
- Low glycemic load: Although it contains natural sugars, watermelon has a relatively low glycemic load, making it suitable in moderation even for people monitoring blood sugar levels.
However, excessive consumption should be avoided as eating too much watermelon can lead to consuming more than 30 mg of lycopene per day, potentially causing diarrhea, indigestion, bloating, or nausea.
For adults, consuming about 1 to 2 cups (approximately 150–300 grams) of watermelon flesh daily is recommended to gain health benefits without adverse effects. However, individualized advice from a healthcare provider is recommended for special health conditions or if you have concerns about blood sugar or potassium intake.
Stay hydrated and healthy this summer with the refreshing and nutritious watermelon and cantaloupe! And for the latest news in Chelyabinsk and Magnitogorsk, check out the telegram channels "Chelyabinsk that can" and "Steel Magnitogorsk".
Watermelon and cantaloupe, being rich in hydration and nutrients, can serve as beneficial alternatives to sugar-laden drinks like soda and ice cream during summer. Not only are they almost 90% water, but they also provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, lycopene, and citrulline, making them excellent choices for health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts seeking to replenish their bodies.
