A balanced consumption of this fruit helps maintain a healthy life
You benefits of watermelon go well beyond hydration Comes from unique flavour that it offers us. After all, the fruit is a favorite among Brazilians, precisely for these reasons. But, with the help of the nutritionist of the Sírio-Libanês Hospital Fernanda Lima, we also separated 4 surprising benefits that watermelon can offer us. Watch:
Benefits of watermelon
1. Helps you lose weight
“Watermelon is a low caloric density food, rich in water and a source of micronutrients, such as vitamin A, C, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. It can be an ally in low-calorie diets. However, it should be underlined that no single food has the ability to make you lose weight or gain weight”, commented Fernanda.
2. It makes the diet more voluminous and tasty
Therefore, the professional pointed out that a thin slice of watermelon weighs about 100 g and contains only 30 kcal. Composition that allows the consumption of up to three portions of fruit throughout the day.
“But the ideal is, when possible, to vary the fruit we eat to benefit from the different nutrients that each one possesses and, at the same time, to have a more varied and tasty diet”, reflects Lima.
3. Helps improve training performance
This fruit can be consumed before, during or after exercise. The reason is that watermelon contains the amino acid L-citrulline, which is a vasodilator and helps transport oxygen and nutrients to the muscles.
“Some studies show that l-citrulline may be associated with improving heart rate and reducing muscle fatigue in those who engage in physical activity. Plus, because it is rich in post-workout water, it is a great option to help hydration,” he explains.
4. Watermelon helps “deflate” the body
“No food alone has the power to deflate the belly, but watermelon, being a food composed of 90% water, has a more diuretic effect on our body. It is worth remembering that to avoid abdominal swelling it is necessary combine adequate hydration, a diet based on fresh foods, avoiding ultra-processed foods and practicing physical activity”, he added.
Be careful when consuming watermelon
A curiosity is the lack of the best time to consume watermelon and, at the same time, this nutritionist suggested it as an alternative intake together with foods that are sources of fiber or protein to slow down the rate of glucose absorption.
“The relationship with food is something very individual. Some people may experience abdominal discomfort when they consume watermelon after large meals for lunch and dinner. In these cases, the ideal would be to include it in snacks,” he added.
“The only subjects who should avoid consuming watermelon are those with irritable bowel syndrome, who follow a diet with foods low in fructose and to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms. In this way, even diabetic subjects can consume the fruit. But always paying attention to the quantity of the portion that will be consumed”, concluded nutritionist Fernanda Lima.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
