9 benefits of eating watermelon and 11 reasons to avoid them

Watermelons Are the Key to Happiness

A man went to the doctor and said, “Doctor, I think I’m addicted to watermelon.” The doctor replied, “I see. And how many watermelons do you eat a day?” The man said, “I don’t know. I usually just eat the rind."

Watermelon is a large, round fruit with green skin and sweet, juicy flesh. It is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers, squash, and pumpkins. Watermelon is native to Africa and has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is now grown in many parts of the world, including the United States, China, and India.

Watermelon is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. It is also a low-calorie food, making it a healthy choice for people who are watching their weight. Watermelon is often eaten fresh, but it can also be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, smoothies, and desserts.

Here are some other interesting facts about watermelon:

• Watermelon is 92% water, making it a good way to stay hydrated.
• Watermelon contains lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer.
• Watermelon seeds are edible and can be roasted or boiled.
• Watermelon rind can be pickled or used in chutneys.
• The world’s heaviest watermelon weighed 350 pounds.

Benefits of eating watermelon

1. Cardiovascular: Rich in lycopene necessary for cardiovascular health. It can reduce blood pressure by causing vasodialation.

2. Bone health: Can improve the accumulation of calcium on the bones and thus aids in stronger bones.

3. Fat loss: Citrulline in watermelon can reduce the activity of TNAP and hence reduces the accumulation of fat cells.

4. Diuretics: increases the flow of urine, but do not strain the kidneys.

5. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidants: Rich in flavonoids, carotenoids and triterpenoids.

6. Muscles: Rich in potassium, required for muscle health.

7. Alkaline: can reduce diseases caused by high acid diet.

8. Eyes: Rich in beta-carotene that is essential for eye health.

9. Wound healing: Rich in vitamin C that can improve wound healing, immunity and prevent cell damage. Source: http://livelovefruit.com/2013/07/8-amazing-health-benefits-of-watermelon/

Interactions of eating watermelons

1. Potassium in watermelon can interact with potassium sparing diuretics.

2. Watermelon can interact with potassium Supplements.

3. Can interact with potassium preparations and ACE inhibitors.

4. Can interact with angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBS) Source: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-77342-potassium-watermelon-banana+Oral.aspx?drugid=77342&drugname=potassium-watermelon-banana+Oral&pagenumber=7

5. Watermelon can block the action of tissue non specific alkaline phosphate. Source: http://livelovefruit.com/2013/07/8-amazing-health-benefits-of-watermelon/

6. Watermelon can cause oral allergy syndrome. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oral_allergy_syndrome

7. Can cause salicylate sensitivity in susceptible individuals Source: http://salicylatesensitivity.com/about/food-guide/fruits/

Health conditions to avoid watermelons

1. People with ragweed allergies should avoid watermelon Source: http://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/allergies/outdoor-allergies/foods-avoid-have-ragweed-allergy.htm

2. People diagnosed with hyperkalemia should avoid watermelon Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/410054-side-effects-of-eating-too-much-watermelon/

3. Watermelon should be avoided by people undergoing dialysis and CKD patients with high potassium levels. Source: http://www.davita.com/kidney-disease/diet-and-nutrition/diet-basics/potassium,-phosphorus-and-the-dialysis-diet/e/5309

4. People with salicylate sensitivity should avoid watermelon Source: http://www.mysensitiveskincare.com/salicylate-free-diet.html#axzz37ww5AzHf

Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/girl-in-white-long-sleeve-shirt-eating-watermelon-4712007/

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