Watermelon
Watermelon is rich in the carotenoids: lycopene, phytofluene, phytoene, beta-carotene, lutein, and neurosporene. Carotenoids are antioxidants known for their ability to “seek out and destroy” free-radicals (pre-cancer cells).
Several researchers have reported an association between dietary lycopene consumption and lower incidence in diseases such as prostate and oral cancers. Lycopene may also help reduce risks of cardiovascular disease.
Watermelon is an excellent source of B vitamins, especially B6. It delivers more nutrients per calorie than most raw foods and its rehydrating properties make it perfect as a pre or post workout food. Watermelon juice also has excellent potential as a functional drink to relieve sore muscles in athletes, a new Spanish study testing cyclists reports.
Watermelon also contains citrulline, a compound that relaxes blood vessels, making it helpful with blood pressure & circulation. This also makes it a natural Viagra. In addition, a pilot study in 2010 showed that watermelon extracts may be effective at naturally reducing pre-hypertension. The research, led by food scientists at The Florida State University, suggested that 6 weeks of L-citrulline extract from watermelon, reduced blood pressure and aortic wave reflection in middle aged individuals with pre-hypertension.
Watermelon seed is rich in micro- and macro-nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorous and zinc. In the Arab world, salted and roasted watermelon seeds are consumed as a snack, in addition to the red flesh.
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