What is the percentage of water in watermelon?
In this brief article, we will provide you with the answer to the question: “What is the percentage of water in watermelon?”, discuss the benefits of watermelon consumption and how to pick a great watermelon. We will also share some curiosities about watermelon.
What is the percentage of water in watermelon?
The percentage of water in watermelon is about 92%. Watermelon is one of the most hydrating fruits because it is composed of more than 90 percent water.
Hydration is essential for maintaining body temperature, preventing infections, supplying nutrients to cells, and keeping organs functioning. It also enhances sleep quality and mood.
What are the health benefits of watermelon consumption?
Besides the hydration effects, watermelon also has a lot of healthy effects. Vitamins A, B6, and C are abundant, as are potassium, iron, calcium, and lycopene.
Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
The fruit includes magnesium and potassium, both of which help to decrease blood pressure. Watermelon also includes citrulline, an amino acid that boosts nitric oxide levels in the body and aids in blood vessels dilation.
The presence of lycopene aids in the regulation of the body’s “bad” cholesterol, called LDL. These disorders are linked to cardiovascular disease risk factors.
As a result, frequent meal consumption, together with a balanced diet and physical activity, reduces the likelihood of cardiac diseases such as heart attacks.
Boosts immunity
Its high vitamin and mineral content decreases nutritional deficiencies in the body and, as a result, boosts immunity. Another advantage is vitamin C, which helps the immune system fight infections and viruses. Furthermore, lycopene aids in the reduction of oxidative stress, which contributes to an increase in immunity.
It is beneficial to eyesight
Watermelon helps protect the eyes by avoiding illnesses like cataracts and macular degeneration. This is due to the presence of antioxidants such as beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), lutein, and zeaxanthin. Vitamin A, for example, prevents eye blindness.
Enhances digestion
Watermelon is readily digested by the body because, in addition to being high in water, the fibers included in its pulp serve to promote gut function. Fiber helps to structure the stool, while water helps to keep the digestive system fluid. As a result, regular ingestion can help avoid constipation.
Helps with brain function
Antioxidant qualities combat the impact of free radicals, chemicals that damage the structure of DNA and speed up aging. A high-antioxidant diet helps memory, learning, and other cognitive processes. The presence of phosphorus, in conjunction with B vitamins, has a significant effect on neurocerebral protection.
It has diuretic properties
Watermelon’s high water content causes an increase in urine output, resulting in a diuretic effect. This is especially good for those who have water retention and bloating. Some patients with renal disorders may benefit from this fruit’s ability to prevent the production of stones.
How to pick a great watermelon?
Note the stains on the watermelon rind
Begin by inspecting the watermelon’s bottom. If the stain is very white or if there is no stain, it might indicate that the watermelon was harvested when it was not ripe yet (not tasting as good). If the watermelon has a larger yellowish mark, this is a positive sign: it suggests it ripened on the ground for a longer period of time.
Give it a thump
Tap the fruit with the tips of your fingers. If the rind of your watermelon is soft, it may indicate that the fruit is overripe.
Analyze the size of the watermelon
A larger watermelon may not imply higher quality. In general, medium-sized watermelons are the best.
Another thing to consider is the form of the watermelon since usually, watermelons with an elongated form contain more water, while the ones with a more rounded shape are generally sweeter.
Examine your watermelon’s stem
Examine the watermelon’s stem. If the fruit’s stem is dry, it signifies the watermelon is ripe. If the watermelon stem is green, it indicates that it has not yet finished ripening.
Curiosities about watermelon
Watermelon has been cultivated in Egypt for at least 5,000 years and is now the sixth most farmed and eaten fruit in the world, behind only bananas, apples, grapes, strawberries, and oranges. Watermelon is the world’s greatest producer, followed by Turkey, Iran, and Brazil, and it is said to have been carried to the Americas by African slaves.
Watermelon belongs to the same family as pumpkin and melon. It is a creeping plant, with large leaves and small, yellow flowers.
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Conclusion
In this brief article, we provided you with the answer to the question: “What is the percentage of water in watermelon?”, discussed the benefits of watermelon consumption and how to pick a great watermelon. We also shared some curiosities about watermelon.
References
Hcor. “Nutricionista do HCor lista as cinco frutas campeãs da hidratação.” Accessed January 14, 2022. https://www.hcor.com.br/imprensa/noticias/nutricionista-do-hcor-lista-as-cinco-frutas-campeas-da-hidratacao/.