Summer season has started, eat less food in this season because the less you eat, the better your health will be. In this season, you should drink as much juice as possible. Today we will talk about watermelon and what are the benefits of eating it? Watermelon is a juicy and cold fruit which is eaten especially in the summer season. Its scientific name is Citrullus lanatus. This fruit is green with a thick peel and red inside, which contains black seeds. This watermelon is rich in about 90% water, which helps in keeping the body hydrated. The origin of watermelon is believed to be in the desert areas of Africa, especially Southern Africa. Archaeological evidence suggests that watermelon was cultivated by the people of Egypt about 5,000 years ago. Watermelon seeds have been found in ancient tombs there. Later, through trade and travel, this fruit spread to Asia, Europe and then all over the world. Today it is cultivated on a large scale in countries like India, China, Türkiye and America. In India, it is a very popular fruit during the summer season and you will see people selling watermelons on every street corner.
What is the benefit of eating watermelon?
1. Helpful in keeping the body hydrated
Watermelon contains more than 90% water, which is extremely helpful in keeping the body hydrated in the summer season. In summer, the body sweats a lot, which causes water loss in the body. Consuming watermelon not only fulfills the body's water requirement but also cools the body. It prevents dehydration. Especially for children and the elderly, this is a safe and tasty way to overcome water deficiency.
2. Helpful in weight loss
Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit, making it an excellent option for those who want to lose weight. Despite being naturally sweet, it does not contain fat and cholesterol, which calms the craving for sweets without increasing weight. Its high water and fiber content makes the stomach feel full, reducing the desire to eat more. If you are on a weight loss diet, using watermelon as a snack can be a tasty and healthy option.
3. Beneficial for heart health
Watermelon contains nutrients like potassium, magnesium and lycopene that improve heart health. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation of the arteries and controls cholesterol levels. Apart from this, it also balances blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart diseases. Regular consumption of watermelon keeps the heartbeat normal and improves heart function. It is especially beneficial for people with high blood pressure.
4. Beneficial for skin and hair
Watermelon is rich in vitamins A, C and water, which help nourish the skin and keep the hair healthy. Vitamin C helps in the formation of collagen, which tightens the skin and reduces wrinkles. Vitamin A repairs the skin and promotes the formation of new cells. Apart from this, the hydrating nature of watermelon moisturizes the skin from within, making the skin look fresh and glowing. Hair roots also become stronger and hair fall is reduced.
5. Improves digestion
Watermelon contains plenty of water as well as fiber, which helps in keeping the digestive system smooth. It helps in relieving constipation and makes bowel movement easier. Regular consumption of watermelon keeps the stomach cool and reduces the problem of acidity or gas. It also helps in keeping the intestines clean, making the stomach feel light and healthy. Watermelon is a natural remedy for people who have stomach problems regularly.
6. Strengthens the immune system
Vitamin C and other antioxidants present in watermelon help in increasing the immunity of the body. Vitamin C helps in fighting infections and strengthens the cells of the body. Consumption of watermelon prevents viral and bacterial infections. It is also effective in preventing problems like cold, cough and sore throat. Apart from this, it also contains beta-carotene which activates the body's immune system and enables the body to fight external harmful elements.
7. Beneficial for eyesight
Watermelon contains vitamin A and beta-carotene, which are very beneficial for eye health. These nutrients maintain eyesight and prevent age-related eye problems, such as cataracts or retinal weakness. Lycopene also helps protect the eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays. If you eat a small amount of watermelon daily, it can be helpful in maintaining freshness, moisture and clarity of vision.
8. Detoxifies the kidneys
The high water content and detoxifying properties of watermelon are beneficial for the kidneys. It helps cleanse the kidneys and removes toxins accumulated in them. Eating watermelon regularly increases the flow of urine, which keeps the urethra clean and reduces the risk of infection. It also controls the level of uric acid, which reduces the chances of kidney stones. Eating watermelon, especially in summer, is a natural and tasty remedy for cleaning the kidneys.
how to use watermelon
1. Cut and eat in a clean manner
After buying watermelon, wash it thoroughly so that the outer dust or germs are removed. Then cut it with a clean knife. The red pulp inside can be eaten with the seeds or after removing the seeds. Cut it into small pieces and eat it as breakfast, lunch or snack.
2. Consume it after cooling
Chill the watermelon in the refrigerator before eating it. Cold watermelon cools the body in summer and also tastes better. But keep in mind that eating very cold (frozen or ice-like) watermelon can cause cold and cough in some people.
3. Make juice and drink it
Making watermelon juice is very easy. Remove the seeds and put the pieces in the mixer, if you want, add some lemon juice and mint. Watermelon juice drunk without sugar is very healthy. It is an excellent detox drink in summer.
4. Use in salad
Watermelon can be eaten as a salad by mixing it with other fruits or vegetables (such as cucumber, tomato, mint). It can be made even more delicious by adding a little lemon and black salt. This method is also suitable for diabetics and those who want to lose weight.
5. Use in skin care
Watermelon pulp can be applied on the face as a face mask. It provides coolness, moisture and glow to the skin. Apply its juice on the face with the help of cotton and leave it for 10–15 minutes, then wash it with cold water. It also removes tanning and stains from the skin.
6. Use peels and seeds too
• Roasted watermelon seeds are rich in protein and minerals. They can be eaten as a snack.
• Some people add the white part of watermelon to the vegetable or make pickle. It also contains fiber and some nutrients.