Watermelon is so much more than a popular summer treat. The health benefits of watermelon are amazing, and make it well worth taking along on every picnic this summer. Check out this article if you want to know what watermelon can do for you, and learn a few super-simple recipes too.
First grown in ancient Egypt, these days watermelon is known as the best part of a summer picnic. People of all ages wouldn't be caught on the Fourth of July without it! But there's much more to watermelon than its great taste. The health benefits of watermelon are many. Watermelon is full of vitamin A in the form of beta carotene. As the name implies, it's rich in water, and very hydrating on a hot day. Watermelon is a good source of vitamin C, B6, magnesium, and potassium. Potassium lowers the risks of heart disease, stroke, and helps control high blood pressure. The vitamins and minerals as well as the high water concentration in watermelon also make it a great fruit to take along when exercising or playing sports on a hot day. It will help keep your electrolytes in balance as it nourishes and rehydrates. Watermelon is 92% water after all! One of the most beneficial nutrients present in watermelon is lycopene. Watermelon is a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that lowers the risk of cancer and other diseases. Watermelon helps boost the immune system. It is rich in citrulline, an amino acid that forms arginine when metabolized. Arginine helps remove ammonia from the body and heal wounds. Arginine is also thought to improve impotence in men. Amazing, huh? Bet you never knew watermelon could do all that!
We've all enjoyed watermelon slices with a bit of salt on a picnic, but there are more great ways to eat watermelon. Here are some simple recipes sure to please every watermelon lover in your home this summer.
Watermelon Shapers:
Simply use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from 1 inch watermelon slices. Top with vanilla yogurt. Sprinkle with granola or chopped nuts.
Melon Kebabs:
Scoop out watermelon and honeydew melon balls and place on a skewer. Layer with cheddar cheese slices and bananas.
Grilled Watermelon Slices:
Cut watermelon into round slices, then into fourths. Grill slices on high for 2 minutes per side. Top with salt, honey, and a squirt of lime.