Benefits of watermelon

Watermelon is an essential summer fruit that is served at many outdoor functions throughout the nation. This popular snack is sweet and pleasant enough to be a dessert–yet this low calorie fruit is also good for your health.

Soothes sore muscles-Watermelon is rich in L-citrulline, an amino acid that the body converts to L-arginine, which is an essential amino acid that helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Drinking watermelon juice before an intense workout can help reduce your heart rate and next-day muscle soreness.

Prevents heat stroke-Watermelon is effective in reducing both your body temperature and blood pressure. Many people in tropical regions eat this fruit every day in the afternoon during the summer months to protect themselves from heat stroke. The high amount of water contained in watermelon also stimulates a release of excess liquid in the form of sweat, which cools your body further during hot summer days.

High blood pressure-The good amount of potassium and magnesium that is present in watermelons is very beneficial in terms of bringing down blood pressure. Potassium is considered a vasodilator, meaning that it releases the tension of blood vessels and arteries, thereby stimulating increased blood flow and reducing the stress on the cardiovascular system. The carotenoids present in these fruits also prevent hardening of artery walls and veins, thereby helping to reduce blood pressure and the chances of blood clots, strokes, heart attacks, and atherosclerosis.

Rich in vitamins and minerals-Given its name, you might assume the fruit has little nutritional value—and it is more than 90 percent water. But a 10-ounce (300-mL) wedge of watermelon packs in about one-third of the recommended daily value of vitamins A and C, as well as a modest amount of potassium (9 percent of the daily value).

 Source: Organic Facts  National Geographic