The desert climate of this area has been known to produce tasty watermelons. According to Bellinger Farms of Hermiston, Oregon, this climate combined with the cool nights creates a higher sugar content in the watermelon.

As its name gives away, watermelons are mainly water at 92% but they are also packed with nutrients. According to the USDA, the key nutrients in watermelons are vitamins A, B6 and C, lycopene and potassium.

The red coloring of watermelons comes from the carotenoid lycopene which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and an antioxidant. This is in the highest concentration when the fruit is most ripe but keeps its nutrient base well over several days of storage. Lycopene is also known to fight some types of cancer.

Watermelons have 21% of the daily value of vitamin C , that’s more than an orange! This can help you boost your immune system so it can fight off disease.

Great levels of vitamin A, which comes from the high beta carotene content, are also in this sweet fruit which also helps fight off disease through the lymphocytes and is very helpful to eye health.

Vitamin B6 is in good amounts, once again helping fight against disease but through antibodies in the immune system. It also helps form red blood cells and keep up with the normal functioning of nerves.

Potassium has an important role in helping with water balance and helping prevent muscle cramps.

Other great nutrients in a watermelon include fiber, choline and citrulline. Fiber helps the digestive tract and prevents constipation. Choline is important sleep muscle movement, memory and learning. Citrulline can help support a healthy cardiovascular system.

Liv Friis-Larsen
Liv Friis-Larsen
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