How much magnesium is in watermelon. What vitamins are in watermelon

Watermelon is loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C, niacin, thiamin and riboflavin. These elements increase our lifespan and keep us from age-related changes, some of them have an anti-carcinogenic effect.

However, more than one watermelon has similar beneficial properties, and in terms of the number of vitamins, it is far from the first. More importantly, the benefits of watermelon in the content, in the exact sense of the word, precious folic acid.
It is essential for the formation of DNA, taking part in cell division and coordinating the absorption and transformation of proteins.

Watermelon: folic acid and magnesium

These processes in the body are not visible to us; as for the visible result of folic acid: it guarantees a good skin color, promotes proper metabolism.
And another useful element of watermelon is magnesium.

In 100 gr. the fetus is approximately 60% of its daily dose. First of all, it is useful in that it provides the correct assimilation of other necessary elements found in the body.

Magnesium contributes to the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. Signs of a lack of magnesium are manifested by cramps in the limbs, tingling, unexplained weakness and fatigue.

Magnesium deficiency can affect the cardiovascular system: nerve conduction disruptions, together with low blood vessel tone, threaten arrhythmia and a significant risk of heart attack.

Therefore, individuals with impaired blood pressure should most of all focus on the amount of magnesium in the diet. Magnesium is also necessary for the kidneys - it prevents the formation of stones and prevents the accumulation of salts.

Magnesium is an excellent antidepressant. Bad mood, restless sleep and poor concentration will be corrected by this substance. Maybe, in the end, it is the watermelon diet that will return the much-needed strength, strength and vigor.

Watermelon - for harmony

This product will help people who want to lose extra pounds. They have a low calorie content - 30 kcal per 100 g. Due to the watery content, it nourishes the body quickly enough and for a long time, and helps to remove unnecessary fluid from the body.

The “watermelon diet” has become widespread, when only the pulp of the fruit is used for a certain time, which gives the expected good result - the weight is noticeably decreasing.

Summing up the benefits of watermelon for the body:

• watermelon juice abounds in trace elements;
• relatively low calorie content;
• high levels of folic acid;
• ridding the body of toxins and poisons;
• a good face care product with excellent moisturizing characteristics;

Now you know what watermelon is good for, eat for health and with pleasure!

Watermelon harm

Of course, almost everyone loves these fruits, however, it must be admitted that this fruit is quite capricious and represents some danger. And we must admit that watermelon is not useful for everyone, moreover, for some it is forbidden.

Watermelons should not be consumed:

• Children - there is a certain risk of poisoning or colic;
• with diseases of the heart and blood vessels due to the possible presence of nitrates in the pulp of watermelon;
• People suffering from diseases of the kidneys and urinary system, due to the large diuretic capacity of the fetus, the diuretic effect of which will cause significant harm to these people;
• With diarrhea and minor intoxications (watermelon can significantly complicate the condition);
• With stones in the liver and kidneys, since watermelon can lead to their dangerous movement;

The fruit is dangerous, first of all, by the content of a huge number of nitrates. When grown, as a rule, the seeds are generously irrigated for rapid growth and juiciness. These fruits look more representative. These chemical fertilizers contain an impressive amount of nitrates, and watermelon is disposed to accumulate nitrates during its entire growth and maturation.

Nitrates can give rise to severe intoxication, which manifests itself in an hour or two, and sometimes in a day or two. Often, of course, poisoning ends quickly, but there is information even about deaths.

And yet, this does not mean that you can not eat them, elementary - buy these fruits in reliable outlets. Avoid buying them on the road and from dubious sellers. There are many tips on the Internet for choosing the right watermelon, listen to them and do not deny yourself the pleasure!

vitamins in watermelon

vitamins	Content
Vitamin A	0.017 mg
Vitamin B1	0.04 mg
Vitamin B2	0.06 mg
Vitamin B3	0.3 mg
Vitamin B6	0.09 mg
Vitamin B9	0.008 mg
Vitamin C	7 mg
Vitamin E	0.1 mg
Minerals	Content
Potassium	110 mg
Sodium	16 mg
Calcium	14 mg
Magnesium	12 mg
Phosphorus	7 mg

Is watermelon a berry?

Watermelon is a plant product popular and loved all over the world. Until now, disputes have not subsided and there is no definition about this fruit, where to rank it: among fruits, vegetables or berries. Previously, it was attributed to fruits, but a little time ago, there was a common judgment that the fruit is still a berry. However, this is correct to some extent.

Due to the fact that in structure and composition it is really akin to berries, but by and large it belongs to the pumpkin family, and samples of this family are in no way related to berries.

Watermelon is a seasonal product, you can’t buy it in winter, it arrives at markets in stores from the middle of the summer season. You can buy it earlier, delivered from distant countries, but in all likelihood, it is already overripe or with a large amount of nitrates, therefore it is better not to buy it ahead of time, it is unlikely that the necessary benefits will be contained in this fruit.

The fruit is heterogeneous in color, often these are stripes, but there are also with a different pattern. Stripes of a pair of flowers: yellowish or greenish yellow, and the second - from salad to juicy dark green. Its flesh is juicy, in most cases red, sometimes the flesh is pink or crimson. Inside the product are yellow or black seeds, they are not poisonous, but they are not eaten, as they can provoke bloating.

You rarely meet a person who does not like watermelons. He is not indifferent to his ability to quench his thirst well. This is timely for the scorching summer heat, when there is a great desire to eat something sweet and tasty, but not a heavy product.

Watermelon is a sweet and tasty fruit, contains useful vitamins and minerals that are necessary for the full functioning of the human body. Useful properties are not only the pulp of watermelon, but also seeds with a peel. 90% of the fruit consists of water, but this does not reduce its value. Watermelon is rich in fructose, potassium, fiber, glucose, iron, pectin, calcium and other trace elements important for health.

Useful Components

Many are interested in what vitamins are contained in watermelon, and what benefits they bring to the body. The fruit contains more than ten useful components and various trace elements. 100 g of pulp contains:

• IN 1- 0.05 mg. Stimulates the work of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Helps to improve the metabolic processes of the body and eliminates diseases of the bones and joints. Protects cell membranes from toxins.
• AT 2- 0.07 mg. Improves liver function. Helps to process carbohydrates and fats, turning them into muscle mass. Enhances the action of other B vitamins.
• AT 6- 0.1 mg. Helps to assimilate the amino acid and promotes the processing of nicotinic acid. Improves the vital activity of the body. Relieves depression, positively affects the psychological state of health. Especially useful for children and nursing mothers.
• AT 9- 0.009 mg. Regulates the functioning of the blood, is responsible for the production of blood cells. Reduces the risk of congenital diseases of the fetus.
• Vitamin A- 0.1 mg. Improves vision, skin condition, strengthens the immune system.
• Vitamin PP- 0.2 mg. Responsible for the functioning of the cardiovascular system and the supply of sufficient oxygen to the body.
• Vitamin E- 0.5 mg. Enhances the action of vitamins A and C to fight against cancer cells.

Watermelon is great for people who are overweight. Due to the water structure and low calorie content (about 30 kcal per 100 g), it saturates the body and removes all excess fluid.

Sufficient content of natural minerals and vitamins in watermelon are easily absorbed by the human body. Possessing a good diuretic effect, it removes harmful toxins, and antioxidant properties due to active molecules reduce the oxidation of cell membranes, and improve digestion.

In watermelon, the main vitamin, the most indispensable from early childhood, which supports the work of almost all body functions:

• Vitamin C- 7 mg per 100 gr. Responsible for the condition of internal organs, improves the condition of the skin, hair, teeth.

Useful trace elements

1. diseases of the kidneys and urinary system;
2. obesity, edema;
3. gout, disruption of the gallbladder;
4. anemia;
5. hypertension;
6. bowel disease;
7. infections.

The microelements included in the composition have an anti-inflammatory effect - they reduce the temperature and relieve inflammation. Strengthen the action of antibiotics and reduce their harmful effects. Watermelon contains useful substances such as:

• Magnesium- 1.2 mg per 100 gr. Helps to absorb vitamins in the body. Controls metabolism and improves digestion. Essential for people with kidney and heart problems. Strengthens muscle and nervous tissue, prevents the formation of stones and the debugging of salts. It helps to accumulate strength, concentrate attention, invigorates, uplifts the mood.
• Calcium- 1.4 per 100 gr. It helps to reduce high blood pressure and has a positive effect on the blood circulation process, improving blood clotting. Prevents the formation of kidney stones and stabilizes the nervous system.
• Iron- 0.1 mg per 100 gr. Saturates the cells with oxygen, and increases the level of hemoglobin in the blood. Strengthens the immune system and neutralizes harmful radionuclides.
• Potassium- 11 mg per 100 g. It has a diuretic effect. Responsible for the growth of the body, the work of the acid-base balance. Helps digest carbohydrates and proteins.
• Sodium- 1.6 mg per 100 gr. Improves the walls of blood vessels, and controls blood sugar levels.
• Phosphorus- 0.7 mg per 100 gr. Helps the body absorb trace elements. Promotes muscle building and strengthens the structure of bones.

Useful minerals

• fats - 0.5 gr
• proteins - 0.6 g
• carbohydrates - 0.57 gr
• dietary fiber - 0.5 gr

Like all berries, watermelon contains vitamins and valuable biological components that are necessary for the human body. There are many diets and traditional medicine recipes that include the southern fruit. Watermelon quenches thirst well, saturates the body with useful elements and is a delicious, loved by all delicacy.

As can be seen from the table, watermelon is a low-calorie berry, consisting mainly of water. However, you should not abuse it and try to lose weight with it, because it contains a large amount of carbohydrates and sugars and has a very high glycemic index. Nevertheless, it is also impossible to underestimate the benefits of watermelon for the body, because it contains useful trace elements and vitamins. And its seeds, although they have an excessively high energy value, are the richest source of phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and vitamin PP.

Medicinal properties

At first glance, it may seem that watermelon, which is 90% liquid, does not particularly enrich the body with useful elements, but in fact, together with it, a person receives a significant dose of vitamin C, which protects cells from damage and gives elasticity to the skin and blood vessels, as well as vitamin A, which is directly involved in the process of visual perception. Despite the fact that the pulp of watermelon does not have a high content of B vitamins, including the extremely important folic acid, as well as vitamin PP, which regulates the process of releasing energy from food, they are present in abundance in watermelon seeds.

As for minerals, watermelon provides the body with a large amount of magnesium, which has a beneficial effect on muscle contractility. In addition, it is essential for the normal absorption of calcium. Without magnesium, the process of bone tissue renewal is impossible. Especially a lot of this trace element in the seeds of watermelon (130% of the daily requirement in 100 g). Also, watermelon (to a lesser extent the pulp and to a greater extent the seeds) are rich in phosphorus, which gives strength to bones and teeth. By the way, contrary to popular myth, eating seeds does not lead to appendicitis.

American scientists have proven that watermelon is the richest natural source of L-citrulline, an amino acid from which nitric oxide is synthesized in the body, which, in turn, promotes vasodilation and maintains their tone. In one experiment, subjects were transferred to a low-temperature room after consuming citrulline to induce vasoconstriction. Then they measured the pressure, and it turned out that after the amino acid entered the body, the indicators were lower and the vessels narrowed less. Moreover, L-citrulline is able to remove lactic acid from the muscles.

The red color of watermelon pulp is largely due to the presence of carotenoids in its composition, which in the body turn into vitamin A. However, one of them, lycopene, does not undergo this transformation. Instead, it exhibits high antioxidant activity. Some scientists attribute its effect to a reduced risk of developing cancers of the digestive system and prostate. In addition, its beneficial effect on blood vessels (lowers cholesterol and prevents the formation of plaques) and the functioning of the heart are noted. Like other carotenoids, lycopene is good for vision and contributes to the prevention of age-related macular degeneration (impaired central vision).

Watermelon is considered a functional food and is very beneficial for people who get a lot of exercise in their workouts. This berry simultaneously provides the body with fast carbohydrates, antioxidants, amino acids. Studies show that watermelon puree and juice (500 ml after training) affect the body in the same way as sports drinks. They reduce muscle soreness and help recovery.

Finally, it should be noted that, contrary to popular belief, watermelon cannot be considered a magical remedy that flushes and cleanses the body of all toxins. Together with the pulp, we consume not only a large amount of liquid, but also an excess amount of sugar. To remove it, the kidneys are actively involved in the work, and the more sugar they need to remove, the more fluid they draw from the body. Thus, small portions can, in a good way, activate the work of these organs, but you do not need to lean on watermelons and create a heavy load on them.

In medicine

In scientific medicine, watermelon is still practically not used. But given that some of its components have a high therapeutic potential, it is possible that in the future scientists will use them to develop various medicines (for example, vasodilators).

To date, watermelon juice extract is used in a Korean remedy called " Mighty Khan" or " super khan". Its action is aimed at enhancing potency, and watermelon juice is responsible for cleansing and expanding the vessels through which blood flows to the penis. True, let us pay attention to the fact that this remedy is not classified as a drug, but as a food supplement. Yes, and it is quite difficult to draw an unambiguous conclusion about its effectiveness. The degree of exposure depends on the causes of erectile dysfunction, so it is better to consult a doctor about the advisability of taking these capsules.

Also on the shelves of pharmacies, watermelon is presented in the form of an oil extract of its seeds, which is recommended for use in kidney diseases. This tool helps to remove sand and small stones. It improves the structure of the kidney tissue. In addition, the oil produces a slight diuretic effect, enhances the excretion of uric acid and is involved in maintaining the acid-base balance.

In folk medicine

In folk medicine, watermelon is used mainly in the treatment of diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract, but some recipes promise a solution to problems with the cardiovascular and digestive systems. Watermelon is also used externally to accelerate the healing of wounds and burns. Note that in the preparation of folk remedies, the peels and seeds of the watermelon fruit are used more often than the pulp.

Decoctions

A decoction of watermelon peels is advised to use when sand or small stones appear in the kidneys and gallbladder, as well as for colitis and dysbacteriosis. This remedy can be prepared both from fresh peel and from dried. If we are talking about fresh raw materials, then the first thing to do is to separate the crust from the pulp and clean it from the outer bright green film. Then grind and pour water at the rate of 100 g of raw materials per 1 liter of water. This mixture should be left on low heat for 30 minutes, then let it brew for about an hour and strain.

If there is a need to prepare such a decoction throughout the year, then you can make stocks for the winter. Peeled and cut into small pieces of crust should be laid out in one layer on a baking sheet and put in an oven preheated to 50 ° C. When the moisture evaporates, the temperature is raised to 70°C. You can also leave the baking sheet in the sun or use an electric dryer. The resulting raw materials are usually stored in paper bags or ground into powder and transferred to glassware.

To prepare a decoction of 150 g of dry peel, pour 1 liter of boiling water (when using powder, take 1 tablespoon per 1.5 cups of water) and let it brew for an hour. Take this remedy one glass 3-4 times a day 20-30 minutes before meals. By the way, with diarrhea, healers advise taking one teaspoon of the powder with water every two hours until digestion improves.

There are also recipes for decoctions from the seeds of a watermelon fruit. To prepare such a drug, 40 g of seeds are kneaded in a mortar and pour 1 liter of hot water, leaving it on low heat for 30 minutes. Then you need to let the liquid brew for about an hour and strain. Next, add 150 g of mashed watermelon pulp, mix and send for storage in the refrigerator. Use this remedy for inflammation of the urinary tract and kidney disease 2 days a week according to the following scheme: 1 glass on an empty stomach, and then another glass 30 minutes after each meal.

Outdoor use

Traditional healers claim that both watermelon pulp and watermelon rinds are effective in treating minor wounds and sunburn. To do this, it is necessary to grind fresh raw materials with a blender to a puree mass, and then apply to the affected area of ​​​​the skin and fix with a bandage. Wash off with cool water after an hour. To speed up the healing of wounds, you can make a compress from a decoction of watermelon peels.

In addition, traditional healers claim that applying fresh crusts to the temples for headaches and to the joints for arthrosis helps to reduce pain. However, the usefulness of such procedures is highly questionable.

In folk medicine, watermelon juice is considered an effective remedy for fever, hematological diseases and infectious inflammation of the genitourinary system. Usually it is taken one glass 4-5 times a day. In addition, watermelon fruit juice is often mixed with freshly squeezed juices from other vegetables and fruits. Among the most popular mixtures are the following:

• Watermelon-orange (mix in equal proportions and take 0.5 cup 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals). Reduces cholesterol levels, activates intestinal motility, helps with mild constipation, relieves symptoms of overwork.
• Watermelon-birch (mix in equal proportions and take 1 glass 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals). Reduces blood pressure, helps relieve symptoms of arrhythmias, has choleretic, diuretic and antipyretic effects. She is recommended to rinse the mouth and throat with inflammatory processes.
• Watermelon-cherry (mix in equal proportions and take 1 glass 3-4 times a day). It helps with colds, has an anticonvulsant effect, normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and improves appetite.
• Watermelon-apple (mix in equal proportions and drink throughout the day). It helps to restore or maintain the tone of the body, helps with mental and physical overwork, dizziness. It has a mild laxative effect.
• Watermelon-potato (mix in a ratio of 2 to 1 and take 1 glass 2 times a day). A mixture of these juices is useful for problems with the digestive system (gastritis with high acidity, enterocolitis, peptic ulcer of the intestine and stomach, dysbacteriosis, heartburn, constipation). It is also used as a lotion for sunburn.

By the way, with inflammation of the urinary tract and fevers, it is recommended to use “watermelon milk”. To prepare it, 50 g of seeds are thoroughly kneaded in a mortar, and then 500 ml of water are added and continue to be crushed until a milky liquid appears. The resulting mixture is filtered and drunk 1 teaspoon 6 times a day.

in oriental medicine

In the folk medicine of the eastern countries, watermelon has long been given close attention. For example, in China, it was classified as a cooling food and believed to have an effect on the heart, stomach, and bladder. It was believed that it produces a cleansing effect and is able to remove diseases from the body if it is regularly taken before meals. In addition, this berry calms the spirit and helps to get rid of anxiety and frustration.

Until now, Chinese traditional healers use watermelon to relieve diseases such as nephritis and hypertension. Moreover, they believe that it has an antipyretic, diuretic and mild laxative effect. Special attention is paid to the seeds, which, when dried, are brewed like tea. Such a drink has a beneficial effect on the kidneys and helps to reduce pressure. However, Chinese healers warn against eating watermelons those who have acute problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

In Indian folk medicine, watermelon is considered primarily a cold and moist product that stimulates the appetite and improves the digestion process. In addition, it is recommended to use it for eye diseases, as well as use it externally for skin inflammations.

In scientific research

Watermelon gets into scientific research mainly due to the fact that it contains a high concentration of the carotenoid pigment lycopene. Previously, it was believed that the richest source of this antioxidant is tomato. However, later scientists found that a watermelon with red pulp is not only not inferior, but even surpasses a tomato in this indicator by about 40%. Moreover, to get a high dose of lycopene from a tomato, it must first be subjected to heat treatment, and from a watermelon, lycopene is absorbed by the body in full and directly.

Researchers believe that this pigment has the necessary properties to prevent chronic diseases such as dyslipidemia (impaired cholesterol levels), diabetes, osteoporosis, and even cancer. In addition, it contributes to the fight against free radicals, oxidative stress (the process that leads to diseases of the cardiovascular and nervous systems) and neurodegenerative diseases.

For example, in one experiment, scientists introduced lycopene into the diet of healthy male smokers with a low intake of fruits and vegetables and found that the levels of oxidative stress in their bodies were significantly reduced. Moreover, improvements in the functioning of the endothelium (the inner layer of blood vessels) have been recorded.

According to the results of one study conducted at Harvard University, scientists found that men who regularly receive lycopene are less at risk of developing cancer, especially prostate cancer. There is also evidence that among those who did develop the disease, there were 25% more people with a lack of this carotenoid pigment in the diet.

As for women, scientists believe that a sufficient amount of lycopene in the body helps to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by 5 times. And if we take statistics that include other types of cancer, then among patients there were 44% more people who received insufficient amounts of carotenoid pigment.

Lycopene has also proven effective in hyperglycemia. Chinese scientists divided rats into groups, each of which was given this pigment at various doses (0, 250, 500 and 2000 mg/kg of body weight) for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, no abnormalities were found in the readings of blood and urine, except that the glucose level decreased markedly. Moreover, the higher the dose of lycopene, the more glucose fell. In another similar study, not only a decrease in sugar was recorded, but also an increase in insulin levels.

In addition, from 1992 to 2003 large-scale work was carried out to monitor diabetic women of the middle age category. During this period, they followed a diet that was high in lycopene-containing foods. The scientists continued to monitor the condition of these women until 2013 and, as a result, concluded that, on average, their insulin levels increased by 37-45%.

Finally, in one of the most recent studies, scientists analyzed the effect, not only of lycopene, but of all the components of watermelon, on the body of rats that were kept on an atherogenic diet (which contributes to the development of atherosclerosis). In particular, special attention was paid to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of watermelon, as well as its effect on the lipid profile.

It turned out that in comparison with the control group, in rats that regularly received watermelon extract, the level of oxidative stress, cholesterol and triglycerides decreased, and the antioxidant capacity of the body increased, which, in turn, causes a decrease in the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

For weight loss

Usually, watermelon is added to the top of fruits and vegetables, which help to lose weight quickly. Often, a mono-diet is even based on it. On the one hand, such an attitude towards this giant berry seems justified, because it contains a lot of liquid and very few calories (100 g of pulp contains only 30 kcal). However, on the other hand, watermelon has a too high glycemic index, it is high in sugar and in large quantities it puts a huge burden on the kidneys.

So, the use of watermelon in diets for weight loss is possible, but its portions should not exceed 200-300 g per day. Despite the fact that this berry has fiber, which should provide a long-lasting feeling of satiety, after a watermelon, the appetite returns quite quickly. The thing is that its glycemic index is 80 units. This means that after eating the pulp in the blood, the level of sugar rises sharply, and then the level of sugar falls just as sharply, and the feeling of hunger quickly resumes. In addition, even though the sugars in watermelon are simple, their excess does not bring benefits to the body.

If in diets with a varied diet, watermelon in moderation is quite acceptable and even useful because of its low calorie content and ability to remove excess fluid from the body, then it is better to refuse a watermelon mono-diet. Eating the same product, the body loses a huge amount of nutrients. In addition, along the way, watermelon washes out useful minerals that were already in the body.

Finally, a huge burden falls on the kidneys, so such a diet is not only undesirable, but contraindicated for people who already have problems with these organs or who suffer from inflammation of the genitourinary system. Dangerous consequences can also await those who have diseases of the cardiovascular and digestive systems or diabetes.

In cooking

The traditional way to consume watermelon is fresh and often separate from other foods. However, everything is not limited to this, in many cuisines of the world, watermelon is dried, salted, fried. It is used to make jam, honey (traditional Astrakhan nardek), it is added to desserts, oysters, salads and even soups (for example, one of the options for summer gazpacho). In addition, the inhabitants of the Mediterranean prefer to spread cream cheese on watermelon, and the Thais have a habit of sprinkling salt on the pulp. By the way, in China, watermelon with salt is also quite common, so they even released the popular Fanta drink with the appropriate flavor.

According to its taste qualities, watermelon goes well with both sweet and salty foods. However, it is worth paying attention to the fact that salt retains water, and watermelon just supplies it to the body in large quantities. This combination can lead to fluid retention and swelling. It is useful to combine this berry with fat-containing foods, because lycopene and carotenoids are fat-soluble pigments. In this sense, a salad of watermelon, feta cheese and mint, seasoned with olive oil, is well suited.

If you want to experiment and bring a little exotic to your daily diet, then you can try frying watermelon slices. First of all, they need to be peeled and seeds, and then cut into small pieces. For batter, mix 2 egg whites and 4 tablespoons of potato starch (previously diluted in a small amount of water). Dip slices of watermelon in flour, then in batter and fry in deep fat or in a pan. After that, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Another interesting summer dessert is watermelon cake. To prepare it, peel the watermelon from the peel and use a knife to give it any shape (it will serve as the basis for the dessert). Then grind the pieces of coconut to a puree state, heat this mass and add gelatin to it, stirring until completely dissolved, pour in cold whipped cream and put it in the refrigerator for an hour. Then coat the watermelon pulp with this cream and sprinkle with almond flakes.

By the way, not only the pulp can come in handy in cooking, but also the peel, from which jam is made. The recipe is extremely simple, but it will take time. Washed and cut into small pieces of peel put in sugar syrup and boil for 15 minutes, then left in the refrigerator for 12 hours. During this time, the skins become translucent and acquire an amber hue. After that, they must again be put on fire and boiled for 15 minutes, and then hidden in the refrigerator for 12 hours. For the third time, while boiling in the jam, you need to add orange zest and spices to taste.

Finally, watermelon makes for some very effective summer cocktails. To prepare such a “drink in a barrel”, you need to cut a small hole for a blender in the upper part of the fruit, immerse it inside and beat the pulp. Then add rum or any other kind of alcohol, mint and lime and insert straws.

Whatever way you are going to cook the watermelon, it is important to remember that it must be washed first, otherwise when the peel is cut, the bacteria from the surface will get inside to the edible part.

In cosmetology

Unlike official medicine, in cosmetology, watermelon has long received well-deserved recognition. Pulp extract, as well as watermelon seed oil, are used in beauty products for various purposes. For example, due to its high liquid content, the berry is especially valuable for moisturizing products, and the presence of simple sugars (sucrose, glucose and fructose), which contain glycolic acid, justifies its appearance in gentle peeling products. This acid helps to remove the layer of dead cells without damaging the skin underneath.

In addition, watermelon introduces pectins into the chemical composition of cosmetic products, which activate the protective function of the skin and soften the aggressive effects of the environment. Vitamin C and antioxidants give the epidermis elasticity and firmness, thus protecting it from premature aging. Finally, B vitamins stimulate the process of filling cells with oxygen and thus maintain skin tone. Note that watermelon also provides a slight whitening effect, which can be useful for owners of pigmented and freckled skin.

As for watermelon seed oil, then, according to cosmetologists, it has a beneficial effect on hair. Stearic, oleic, linoleic and palmitic acids nourish the curls, and L-arginine affects the blood supply to the hair follicles, stimulating the growth process and, if necessary, starting the recovery process. Due to the content of copper and zinc, products with watermelon seed oil will be especially useful for hair prone to oiliness and active pigment loss (graying). Finally, we note that due to its fresh and slightly sweet aroma, watermelon is often used in both women's and men's perfumes, especially when creating summer scents.

As for the preparation of cosmetics at home, among the most popular recipes, the following can be distinguished:

• To provide a refreshing and tonic effect, it is recommended to freeze watermelon juice in an ice mold and then wipe the skin of the face with it. Wash off the remaining liquid after 15 minutes.
• When acne appears, place 10 g of watermelon seeds in a mortar and grind them well, gradually adding 100 ml of water. Apply to the skin, leave for 20 minutes and then rinse with cool water.
• With roughness and dryness of the skin of the hands, you should cut off the upper part of the watermelon fruit, beat the pulp inside a little with a blender, add a glass of warm milk there and dip your palms into this mixture for a few minutes. Then apply the fatty fraction (any vegetable oil) to the skin.

Dangerous properties of watermelon and contraindications

Moderate consumption of watermelon has a beneficial effect on the body, however, abuse can lead to negative consequences:

• More than 30 mg of that very useful antioxidant lycopene can cause digestive disorders (especially in older people), cause nausea and diarrhea.
• In people with hyperkalemia, large amounts of watermelon can cause muscle spasm and arrhythmias.
• An excess of potassium can also lead to a sharp decrease in pressure.
• A large amount of sugar is a strong glycemic load on the body, especially those suffering from diabetes. It is better to combine eating watermelon with plant foods rich in fiber. This will make the jump in glucose not so sharp.
• With kidney problems, large portions of watermelon can provoke severe edemabecause the fluid simply cannot quickly leave the body.
• Watermelon seeds contain so-called antinutrients (phytins, tannins, trypsin inhibitors - an enzyme that breaks down proteins), so it is better to use them not raw, but dried or fried.

We have collected the most important points about the benefits and possible harms of watermelon in this illustration and we will be very grateful if you share the picture on social networks with a link to our page:

Watermelon began to be grown in the Kalahari Desert region 4000 years ago, but it came to Europe from Africa only in the 17th century. Plant growers argue that modern berries bear little resemblance to their predecessors. The American scientist James Niinhuys cites a still life by the Italian artist of that time, Giovanni Stanchi, which depicts a fruit with very light, barely pinkish flesh. The watermelon became red thanks to the work of breeders who gradually filled it with lycopene.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, the berries had already acquired a reddish hue and, according to historians, were extremely sweet. The Watermelon Museum in Astrakhan exhibits a painting by Boris Kustodiev "The Merchant for Tea". The canvas depicts a woman with a cup, and on the table next to the samovar are slices of watermelon. It is believed that the berry was so sweet that it was eaten as a dessert with tea.

Since then, watermelon has only gained popularity around the world, and it is not for nothing that in many countries they hold themed festivals, and even erect monuments to it. Many such monuments are located on the territory of the post-Soviet countries. The most famous are in Saratov and Kamyshin (Russia), as well as in Kherson and with. Osokorovka Kherson region (Ukraine). Also, a giant sculpture stands in the small Australian town of Chinchilla. Although more modest, but there is a monument to watermelon in the USA - in Texas.

Interestingly, watermelons are loved and valued not only for their taste characteristics and useful properties, but also for their special structure. Firstly, they serve as a wonderful material for masters of culinary carving (artistic cutting of vegetables and fruits). Secondly, horror movie sound engineers use watermelon fruits to recreate the sounds that accompany punches in the face, head splitting, breaking bones. And in the famous TV series Game of Thrones, with the help of a blow to a watermelon, they imitated the sound of a cracking dragon egg.

Selection and storage

Determining the period from which it becomes safe to buy watermelons and choosing a good ripe berry is not difficult, although surrounded by many myths. It is best to start eating watermelons with the beginning of the season, that is, in August. Of course, there are also early ripening varieties that ripen earlier, but there are relatively few of them on the market, but the probability of running into a fruit whose growth was forced by fertilizers is quite high.

It should be noted that almost all melon growers use nitrogen fertilizers when growing watermelons, but the main thing is not to exceed the permissible norms. With an excess of nitrogen, the fruit ripens quickly, but it contains a large amount of nitrates. In the same way, unripe berries are dangerous. Nitrates from fertilizers must go through a period of bound form and excretion, and in the case of an early harvest, harmful substances do not have time to do this and remain inside.

Despite the fact that there can be an excess of nitrates in watermelon and this is not very beneficial for the body, it is almost impossible to get poisoned by them. The allowable intake of nitrates by a person weighing 60 kg is 300 mg. Even in the most “contaminated” watermelon fruit, there are approximately 270-280 mg of harmful substances per 1 kg of pulp. For comparison, up to 1000 mg of nitrates / 1 kg are sometimes found in meat, and up to 2500 mg / 1 kg in greenhouse spinach and arugula.

Poisoning, which is usually associated with the use of watermelon, does happen, but not at all due to nitrates, but rather due to poor hygiene. Nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are symptoms that accompany intestinal infections that are caused by the ingestion of bacteria living on the surface of unwashed vegetables and fruits. When cut, they fall on the pulp, and then into the gastrointestinal tract. So you should wash the watermelon well and thoroughly before use.

When choosing a fruit, you should pay attention to the peel: it should not be damaged or dented. The surface of a ripe watermelon is usually shiny and bright green, but on one side there should be a yellow-brown (earthy) spot - the place on which the watermelon lay when ripening. It is quite normal when there is a bee cobweb on the rind of a watermelon - thin ornate gray-brown stripes. It is believed that this is a sign of the special sweetness of the fruit. The tail or the place where it is attached must be dry, and the sound when tapped must be sonorous.

As for the storage of watermelon, after cutting it can be kept in the refrigerator for no more than 3-4 days. By the way, inventive lovers of this berry came up with a useful life hack - cover the remaining half of the watermelon with a shower cap. Due to the gum, it holds well and protects the flesh from chapping.

At room temperature, a whole watermelon can lie on average for about 2 weeks, but the timing depends on the degree of its maturity. Interestingly, this fruit can be preserved even until the New Year. To do this, it must either be placed in a net and hung, or placed on shelves, wrapped in straw, in a dark and cool (4-5 ° C) room. True, as scientists have found out, under conditions with a low temperature in watermelons, the content of lycopene decreases (from 8.1-12.7 mg / 100 g to 7.8-8.1 mg / 100 g).

Varieties and cultivation

Previously, it was believed that watermelon can grow only in a hot southern climate. However, the work of breeders made it possible to grow this berry in less favorable conditions, the main thing is to choose the right variety for your region. The melon should be located on the south side of the site and protected from strong winds. Note that the proximity of groundwater is unacceptable, and for a better outflow of fluid and warming up the earth, you can even make beds 15 cm high. Sandy or sandy soil is best suited for the structure.

You can sow watermelon directly into the ground when the temperature has reached 15-16 ° C, and the earth has warmed up about 10 cm deep. Watering the plant may occur infrequently, but should be plentiful (about 3 buckets per 1 square meter). During the flowering period, moisturizing should be carried out 2 times a week, and during ripening, watering is no longer required.

The varietal variety of watermelons is amazing: you can choose a berry for almost any climatic conditions. They will differ in terms of vegetation, frost and drought resistance, but taste characteristics and appearance remain basically unchanged. Although there are some exceptions.

For example, breeders managed to bring out "moon" watermelons with yellow flesh. And on the Japanese island of Hokkaido, watermelons of the Densuke variety grow. Their peel is dark green without stripes, which is why they are also called black. In one season, a very small amount of fruits are harvested there, but it is believed that they have a special sweetness. This explains their average price of $ 250 for a 6-7 kg berry, and the largest black watermelon was sold at auction for $ 6,100. Usually sold in stylish black boxes, they are considered a very valuable gift.

In addition, there are varieties in which seeds are completely absent (we are not very common, but in Europe they make up 80% of the market). In some countries, tiny portioned berries (about 10 cm in diameter) have gained popularity. Also, Japanese melon growers are actively experimenting with the form, growing pyramidal and cubic fruits. By the way, if pyramid watermelons were created, rather, for marketing purposes, then the appearance of cube watermelons is explained by quite practical considerations. Such berries take up much less space and are more convenient to transport.

You can grow a cubic fruit in your garden. At the moment when the ovary reaches the size of an apple or a tennis ball, it is covered on top with a plastic cube (designed for 4-5 kg) with transparent walls and holes for air to penetrate. When the berry fills the entire space, the cube is removed and the fruit is left to ripen.

In general, watermelon is not just a refreshing water, but a source of essential amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories and fat, but has fiber. These berries have long been used in cosmetology, and now their properties are being actively studied by doctors. When consumed in moderation, watermelon contributes to the maintenance of normal functioning of the cardiovascular and digestive systems, it also contributes to the body's antioxidant defense and helps prevent the development of many chronic diseases.

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Watermelon is a great thirst-quenching fruit that contains high amounts of lycopene and vitamin A. Delicious and juicy, watermelons are a great source of essential water and electrolytes that are so needed in hot summer temperatures.

Watermelon was bred from South African countries, from where it spread to tropical and subtropical regions.

Externally, the fruit has a smooth, dark green and yellow, thick outer skin with light green or gray vertical stripes on the surface. The inner flesh is juicy and comes in different colors such as pink, red or yellow depending on the type of cultivar. Watermelon has a neutral taste, similar to plain sweet water (light sugar syrup).

Varieties of watermelon fruits are grown all over the world, differing in size, shape and flesh color (red, orange and yellow).

In this article, we will tell you what vitamins are in watermelon, how it is useful for the body, how to choose and store it, and also what dangers it can be fraught with.

Benefit for health

Even though watermelon is 90% water, they also contain vitamins A, B6, C, lycopene, antioxidants, and minerals. Of course, you have heard that lycopene, which is also found in tomatoes, giving them their red color, is a valuable phytonutrient. 150 g of watermelon contains 1.5 times more lycopene than a large tomato. Lycopene differs from some other antioxidants in that it is very stable and does not lose its effect even after being refrigerated for a long time. It is believed that lycopene is even more effective than its ally beta-carotene.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Lycopene is a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant that plays an important role in the health of your cardiovascular system and your bones. In addition to lycopene, watermelons contain another important phytonutrient called citrulline. Citrulline is an amino acid and is converted in the body to L-arginine.

A study at the University of Florida found that watermelons can significantly lower blood pressure, especially in overweight people. Like this? The body uses arginine to create nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax and open up. As a result, your blood pressure drops and your heart can best oxygenate your body. The resulting citrulline L-arginine can also prevent excess fat accumulation by blocking the enzyme responsible for fat deposition.

Being a precursor to nitric oxide, citrulline like Viagra can also help prevent erectile dysfunction, although in this case you will need to eat a lot of watermelon to achieve the same effect as Viagra.

Carotenoids and risk of heart attack

In a study of more than 13,000 American adults, particularly low levels of carotenoids were found to be an important predictor of premature death. In particular, low levels of lycopene levels.

There are several studies that show a strong link between low levels of lycopene and heart disease. For example, an analysis from the Physicians' Health Study showed a reduced risk of stroke in 39% of women with the highest levels of lycopene. A 12-year study from Finland with over 1,000 men came to the same conclusion.

In addition, lycopene can inhibit the enzyme in the body that is responsible for cholesterol production. From which we can conclude that eating foods rich in lycopene can lower cholesterol levels.

Lycopene and cancer risk

Even in terms of prostate cancer, there are only good things to say about lycopene. Several studies have shown that consumption of lycopene-containing foods and an increase in serum lycopene levels can significantly reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Further research shows that lycopene can also successfully prevent lung cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, colon cancer, and cervical cancer.

Great for rehydration

Red fruits are 90% water and are full of electrolytes and potassium that will hydrate or re-hydrate your body. Thus, watermelons are the perfect fruit for hot summer days or after an exhausting workout. Delicious juice can also help prevent muscle inflammation the next day.

Table

This table lists the nutritional value of vitamins and minerals in watermelon.

indicator per 100 g
	nutritional value	Percent RDA
energy	30 kcal	1,5%
carbohydrates	7.6 g	6%
protein	0.6 g	1%
Total Fat	0.15 g	0,5%
cholesterol	0 mg	0%
dietary fiber	0.4 g	1%
vitamins
B9	3 mcg	1%
B3	0.178 mg	1%
B5	0.221 mg	4,5%
B6	0.045 mg	3,5%
B1	0.033 mg	3%
A	569 IU	19%
WITH	8.1 mg	13,5%
E	0.05 mg	0,5%
electrolytes
sodium	1 mg	0%
potassium	112 mg	2,5%
minerals
calcium	7 mg	0,7%
copper	42 mcg	4,5%
Iron	0.24 mg	3%
magnesium	10 mg	2,5%
manganese	0.038 mg	1,5%
zinc	0.10 mg	1%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-α	303 mcg	—
Crypto-xanthine-β	78 mcg	—
lutein-zeaxanthin	8 mcg	—
Lycopene	4532 mcg	—

Selection and storage

Although watermelons can be grown at any time of the year in tropical conditions, the best watermelons grow during the summer months. In the markets, try to buy organically grown fruits, as they are richer in taste and nutrients.

It's often difficult to judge maturity and flavor without checking the wedge-shaped section of the watermelon. Look for fruits that are heavy for their size, with a smooth skin that is not too shiny, without any cuts or dents on the surface that may have occurred during transport.

At home, place the fruit in a cool, well-ventilated area. However, cut watermelons should be stored in the refrigerator.

Safety

Allergy to watermelon is rare and anyone can enjoy it in peace. Its seeds are not usually consumed, but if they accidentally enter the body, then it's okay, they are not toxic.

Since ancient times, people have been interested in what vitamins in watermelon make it a valuable food product. For the first time, watermelon was talked about in South Africa, when its so-called wild “progenitor”, belonging to the gourd family, was found in the tropics. The first berries were small in size, had a bitter taste and were not at all in demand among people. It was then that the Egyptians came up with a way to increase their size, as well as improve the taste. It happened in the year 2000 BC.

In Russia, the first watermelons appeared in the 8th century, maybe a little later. According to historical information, they were brought from India, and they were sold only to noble people. And only by the seventeenth century, the berry began to be grown on the territory of Russia. Watermelon is recommended for use in certain pathologies as an adjunct in the treatment of a folk character.

Composition of watermelon

It is known that watermelon is a berry that contains a huge amount of vitamins and minerals. All of them perform certain functions, due to which many processes in the human body are normalized. So, for example, it has been proven that the berry consists of 95% water, and therefore, watermelon diets are recommended for those who want to lose weight quickly. Basically, 100 grams of watermelon has 0.6 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat and 5.8 grams of carbohydrates.

In addition to the main nutrients, the product contains vitamins and minerals that make it useful. Many doubt that eating it will really benefit the body and in vain. This culture includes at least ten vitamins and twelve trace elements, whose reserves must be constantly replenished for normal functioning in the body.

Vitamin substances contained in the berry and their main functions

It is believed that watermelon contains vitamins of the following groups:

Vitamins per 100 grams of product	Content
Vitamin A	0.017 mg
Vitamin B1	0.04 mg
Vitamin B2	0.06 mg
Vitamin B3	0.3 mg
Vitamin B6	0.09 mg
Vitamin B9	0.008 mg
Vitamin C	7 mg
Vitamin E	0.1 mg

• PP - are considered the main splitters of body fat. The main function is the processing of harmful "cholesterol" in the body into energy;
• beta-carotene - turns in the human body into vitamin A, after which it begins to actively improve the state of its immunity;
• A (RE) - are responsible for improving the functioning of the body's immune system, normalizing metabolism, as well as accelerating the growth of new cells;
• B1 (thiamine) - protect cells from the negative effects of toxic substances, do not accumulate in the body, and therefore require daily replenishment;
• B2 (riboflavin) - process carbohydrates and fats in the human body into energy, and it, in turn, into muscle mass, enhance the effect of B6 vitamins;
• B6 (pyridoxine) - replenish cells in a weakened body, have a beneficial effect on mental processes and protect against increased susceptibility to stress and depression;
• B9 (folic acid) - necessary in the body of a woman for the normal development of the fetus in early pregnancy, contribute to the proper performance of the functions of vitamin B12, which contributes to the production of red blood cells;
• C - contribute to the excretion of toxic substances such as mercury, lead, copper from the body, increase its resistance to stress;
• E (TE) - have an intensifying effect on the performance of the anti-cancer function, coupled with vitamin C, do not allow pathologies of a different nature to develop;

An interesting fact is the content in watermelon of a substance called lycopene, which has a deadly effect on cancer cells. In addition, it is an excellent adjuvant in the treatment of visual impairment.

Trace elements contained in culture, their functions

In addition to vitamin substances, watermelon contains a sufficient amount of minerals necessary for the organization of the normal functioning of all body systems. These include:

• calcium - has a general strengthening effect on the body, improves the function of blood clotting;
• phosphorus - works together with calcium, promotes rapid muscle building and skeleton construction;
• magnesium - normalizes metabolism, improves the functioning of the digestive tract;
• iron - contributes to improved synthesis of cells of the body's immune system, is engaged in the neutralization of harmful substances coming from the external environment;
• potassium - normalizes the acid-base balance, the work of the cardiovascular system of the body;
• sodium - is responsible for the normal amount of sugar in blood cells and their strength.

By learning what vitamins in watermelon make it a must-have nutritional crop, people are eager to understand exactly how eating it will affect the body. In addition, everyone understands that any product should be taken in limited quantities, and therefore it is necessary to know how many grams of watermelon can be consumed per day.

Useful properties of watermelon

Considering how many vitamins and minerals watermelon contains, one should not deny its positive effect on the body as a whole. The main beneficial properties of the berry are:

• improving kidney function - given the high water content and diuretic effect that the culture has, experts often recommend using them in large quantities for people suffering from urolithiasis, as well as other chronic and inflammatory diseases associated with the genitourinary system;
• lowering blood pressure - occurs due to the presence in watermelon of a substance such as citrulline, which then becomes arginine, which normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
• protection from exposure to direct sunlight - is possible due to the fact that the berry contains a large amount of water, which means that eating it will prevent dehydration of the body and save you from heat stroke in hot countries;
• improving the condition of the body with diabetes - proper use will even reduce the glycemic index of the blood of a person suffering from high sugar levels. This is due to the content of vitamins and minerals in the berry, a large amount of water;
• normalization of the cardiovascular system - the constant use of watermelon, which contains carotenoids, potassium, reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood, thereby preventing diseases associated with the normal functioning of the heart;
• prevention of the development of various eye diseases;
• increase in male sexual activity - achieved due to the presence of arginine in it;
• improvement of the condition in various diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• reducing the risk of developing a disease such as gout;
• reducing the possibility of developing cancer - due to the presence of lycopene and carotenoids in it;
• an increase in the rate of weight loss - occurs due to the fact that the berry is slightly more than 95% water;
• reducing the risk of various diseases against the background of harmful external environmental factors.

Contraindications for eating berries

There are, however, a number of cases when the use of watermelon is contraindicated due to the substances that it contains. Most often, experts warn against eating berries in such cases as:

• decreased renal function;
• the occurrence of a violation of the outflow of urine;
• the presence of stones with a diameter of more than 4 cm - in such cases, the use of watermelon can move them from their place, which will cause severe pain;
• indigestion in the form of diarrhea and vomiting;
• the last stages of pregnancy;
• fluid retention in the body;
• the presence of cardiovascular disease.

It is worth remembering to choose the right berry from the seller in the market. Either it must be a verified person, or it is necessary to know certain criteria by which they are selected. It is worth considering the fact that if you use a culture with a high content of nitrates, even in the body of a healthy person, failures can begin.

How to choose the right watermelon?

To be sure that the purchased berry will be juicy and really useful, you should pay attention to the following points:

• crust - it should be bright, shiny, hard;
• the sound that occurs when knocking - it should be sonorous and clear, and in the berry where the peel is thicker, it will be high, otherwise it will be low;
• immersion in water - a ripe berry will definitely float;
• ponytails - they should be dryish;
• the presence of a yellow spot on the side.

What is useful watermelon