While a big cup of ice cream may be one of the sweetest summer treats, it can do some not so sweet things to the midsection. For a lighter refreshment, trying biting into a slice of watermelon. At only 48 calories per cup, this fruit packs in nutrition without packing on calories. And despite playground rumors, it's even okay to eat the seeds.
CHECK OUT THESE MELONS — WHY IT’S SUPER
Watermelon isn’t the average treat. Instead of sugar, it's filled with nutrients likevitamins A and C. It also packs a big dose of the amino acidcitrullin, which helps the body produce yet another amino acid called arginine. Eating watermelon has been shown to raise the body's arginine levelsand could potentially lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease[1] [2]. Arginine is also important in cell division, allowing the body to properly heal itself and create new tissue.
But this summer staple does more than help heal the occasional boo-boo.Watermelon also contains lycopene, an carotenoid that's been shown to help protect the body from UV rays, cardiovascular disease, and cancer [3] [4]. To reap the maximum benefit from these compounds, try chomping on the rind, which tends to contain more of the powerful aminos.
MELON OUT — YOUR ACTION PLAN
Thanks to modern transportation (and some super-cool greenhouse action), watermelon is available virtually year round in any climate. For the most flavorful and freshest slice, look for local watermelon during the peak months of June through November. To get more lycopene from a cut melon, refrigerate and eat within seven days, because lycopene content (and juiciness!) decrease significantly with storage.
And while watermelon makes a perfect mid-day treat, don’t be afraid to go beyond the basic snack time slice. Explore the savory side of things with an arugula, feta, and watermelon salad, or make a special cocktail-time treat by soaking chunks in spiced rum.
But this summer staple does more than help heal the occasional boo-boo.Watermelon also contains lycopene, an carotenoid that's been shown to help protect the body from UV rays, cardiovascular disease, and cancer [3] [4]. To reap the maximum benefit from these compounds, try chomping on the rind, which tends to contain more of the powerful aminos.
MELON OUT — YOUR ACTION PLAN
Thanks to modern transportation (and some super-cool greenhouse action), watermelon is available virtually year round in any climate. For the most flavorful and freshest slice, look for local watermelon during the peak months of June through November. To get more lycopene from a cut melon, refrigerate and eat within seven days, because lycopene content (and juiciness!) decrease significantly with storage.
And while watermelon makes a perfect mid-day treat, don’t be afraid to go beyond the basic snack time slice. Explore the savory side of things with an arugula, feta, and watermelon salad, or make a special cocktail-time treat by soaking chunks in spiced rum.