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Watermelon: Expert opinions, health risks, and more
Perspective from Leticia Soares
Postgraduate Degree in Public and Family Health/Bachelor Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics · 5 years of experience · Brazil
Benefits
- Watermelon provides hydration. About 92% of watermelon composition is water. In addition to drinking plenty of water, consuming water-rich foods is a great way to keep your body well hydrated.
- Watermelon can be a cardiovascular health protector. In a study it was showed that the consumption of watermelon in daily basis can help with reductions in body weight, body mass index, waist-hip ratio and blood pressure.
Watermelon has anti-oxidant properties. The fruit is a valuable source of phytochemicals with high nutritional properties. Watermelon can be considered an excellent functional food due to its rich lycopene, vitamin A and vitamin C contents. The intake of watermelon as a snake or beverage has the antioxidant potential and helps in the improvement of cell signalling, adhesion and other important biological activities.
- Watermelon has anticancer properties. The red colors of watermelon are due to the presence of carotenoids, such as lycopene and beta-carotene. The lycopene is an active component of watermelon and it can act in the modulation of cancer development by the inhibition of DNA mutation.
Possible Side Effects
- Eating watermelon in excessive amounts can lead to some intestinal discomfort. Watermelon is a high FODMAP fruit and when consumed in large portions it can cause symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea and pain.
Perspective from Lucía Ramos
Bachelor of Science (Nutrition) · 8 years of experience · Argentina
Benefits
- Watermelon helps in weight loss. Watermelon contains fiber and has low range of kilocalories. Every 100 grams it provides 30 kilocalories, about 0,4 grams of fiber and a high percent of water.
Possible Side Effects
- Diabetic subjects should control the portion of watermelon for its sugar content and its impact on blood glucose.