Watermelon , in addition to being delicious and cooling, is also rich in nutrients that promote the health of the body. Here are some reasons why we should eat watermelon regularly ...
It is good for the skin
Over time, the skin begins to lose collagen, which is one of the main causes of fine lines and wrinkles . Watermelon is rich in beta-carotene, which counteracts cell damage .
Consumption of about 180 g of watermelon provides the body with 20% of its daily need for vitamin C , which helps build and maintain collagen - a major structural protein in the skin.
Reduces the risk of stroke
Watermelon owes its red color to the content of the powerful antioxidant lycopene . Its quantities are greater in this fruit than in tomatoes.
Consumption of foods rich in this antioxidant reduces the risk of stroke by 20%. Research shows that people with the highest lycopene levels are 55% less likely to have a stroke.
The antioxidant improves the function of blood vessels and protects against damage caused by "bad" cholesterol in the blood.
Strengthens the body's defenses
Again, thanks to the powerful antioxidant, watermelon also strengthens the immune system, which is why it is useful against summer viruses . Increasingly, studies show that lycopene also helps kill cancer cells.
According to researchers, the antioxidant inhibits the growth of cancer cells in breast cancer , and there is evidence that it plays an important role in preventing the development of prostate cancer .
Unlike other fruits and vegetables, watermelon can be stored in the refrigerator for 7 days before reducing the lycopene content in it.