Melon is a rich source of useful nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants. It contains glucose, fructose and sucrose, and its flesh is rich in vitamins B and C.
The composition of melon also includes the minerals potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, selenium and other ingredients that are important for the activity of the immune and cardiovascular system, endocrine glands. It also contains germanium - a rare trace element that has benefits in maintaining the youth of the cell.
Melon is high in water and low in calories, which makes it suitable for unloading diet.
Consumption of tasty and fragrant fruit tones and refreshes in the summer heat, reducing the risk of heat stroke. The high liquid content is effective against dehydration.
What are the specific health benefits of eating melon ...
1. A surge of energy
Melon contains B vitamins, and without them the body can not function. With their help, it converts the food consumed into energy.
Vitamins are involved in the regulation of cellular processes, as well as in carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism.
2. Cancer prevention
Melon is a rich source of lycopene - a carotenoid known for its antioxidant capacity. Scientists have long studied its benefits in preventing the development of cancer. Lycopene is associated with a lower risk of prostate and colon cancer.
It is also found in other reddish fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and tomatoes.
3. Heart health
Lycopene also has benefits for improving heart function.
A study by researchers at the Harvard Medical Institute found that women with high blood levels of lycopene were 33% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those with the lowest levels. In addition, along with vitamin C and potassium, they help reduce "bad" cholesterol, which is important for heart health.
4. To lower blood pressure
Consumption of melon promotes the maintenance of healthy blood pressure levels. The benefit is due to the high content of water and potassium - a mineral that helps control blood pressure.
It is estimated that the content of potassium and magnesium in melons is higher than in cucumbers, pears and cabbage.
5. Diabetes
The content of minerals, such as potassium and magnesium, in melon helps the proper functioning of insulin in the body, thus regulating blood sugar levels.
Ripe melon contains fructose. It is sweeter than regular sugar, but unlike it does not cause strain on the insulin apparatus of the pancreas, which is important for those affected by diabetes.
6. Weight loss
Although it contains sugars, melon is a useful food in the diet due to its high water content and low caloric content. In 100 g of melon there are only 42 kcal.
Consumption of a few pieces of fruit saturates, helps to eliminate toxins in the body.
7. A valuable source of folic acid
Melon is rich in folic acid, which makes it a suitable fruit for women planning a pregnancy, pregnant women, children and people with chronic diseases.
Folic acid stimulates the formation of blood cells from the bone marrow and supports the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
It is believed that 150 g of melon satisfies the body's daily need for folic acid.