What are the benefits
Watermelon is a natural diuretic, which makes it useful for weight loss, and is a blood purifier. It helps cleanse tissues and combat canker sores. Watermelons are a good source of lycopene, an anticancer substance. Watermelon can help protect the body from esophageal cancer and help control high blood pressure.
How to select your fresh watermelon
Select a watermelon that is symmetrically shaped and are free of cracks, soft spots and dark bruises. Choose a watermelon whose rind is neither very dull nor very shiny. The underside of the melon should be yellowish in colour. The stem (if attached) should be dry and brown in appearance.
How to store your watermelon
Wash watermelons under cool water before slicing to cleanse them of any mold or bacteria, which can be carried from the knife from the skin into the fruit. Cut watermelon should be stored in airtight containers. Refrigerated, it will keep up to four days. Uncut watermelon can be kept at room temperature and will keep for up to one week.
Key Nutrients in Watermelon
Fiber
Calcium
Iron
Magnesium
Phosphorous
Potassium
Sodium
Fructose
Glucose
Sucrose
Zinc
Copper
Manganese
Vitamin C
Vitamin B1, B2 & B3
Pantothenic Acid
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin E
And small amounts of lipids and amino acids.
References:
Balch, Phyllis A. (1992) Prescription for dietary wellness. 2nd-Ed. Published simultaneously in Canada.
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