Summer in the United States begins on June 21, 2018. Is the time of year the children are off from school—we plan fun in the sun activities and vacations. When I think of summer, one word comes to mind—WATERMELON!! It has always been my favorite fruit and I eat it for breakfast whenever possible. AND it is good for us! It contains 92% water and is nutrient dense.
You notice I called it a fruit. Others say it is a vegetable in the squash and cucumber family. In fact, in 20017 Oklahoma made it their state vegetable.
Thank you to WebMD and the government’s Agricultural Research Service for giving me information on my favorite fruit (or vegetable??). Pick ripe watermelons with a deep red color (inside). These contain the most lycopene, an antioxidant, which research says may help reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease. One Spanish study showed that eating watermelon can help reduce muscle soreness after exercising. Another study shows watermelon can help with prostate health.
Watermelon also contains vitamin A which is important for vision, skin, teeth and gums. Since vitamin A is fat soluble, it should be eaten with some fat for better absorption. I live in a small Greek community in Florida where it is regularly eaten with feta cheese.
Watermelon also contains potassium which is great for most of us. If you have been diagnosed with hyperkalemia or kidney disease, you will need to limit your consumption of watermelon to one cup per day—check with your doctor if you have either of these conditions.
Take advantage of this nutritious food. It is as good as any dessert and better for you.
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