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5 Health Benefits of Watermelon

Now that summer is officially here, it’s finally watermelon season! Watermelon is one of our favorite seasonal fruits for a number of reasons. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also full of nutrients and has a number of health benefits. Head to your local grocery store or farmers market to pick some up and enjoy our favorite 5 health benefits of eating watermelon. Read on below to learn more!

Sliced Watermelon

Health Benefits of Watermelon

1. Helps you stay hydrated

Headed to the beach or for some fun outdoors? In addition to plenty of water, pack some watermelon to help stay hydrated. Watermelon is 92% water, and the higher the water content of the fruit, the more likely you are to stay hydrated.

2. Full of nutrients

Watermelon may be low in calories (only 46 cal/cup – or 154 grams), but it’s high in nutrients. These vitamins and minerals make up the nutrient profile found in watermelon:

  • Vitamin C: 21% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
  • Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI
  • Potassium: 5% of the RDI
  • Magnesium: 4% of the RDI
  • Vitamins B1, B5, and B6: 3% of the RDI

It is also high in beta-carotene and lycopene, which can help protect your skin from sunburns. That doesn’t mean you should stop wearing SPF, though!

And on that note…

3. Great for skin and hair

Who doesn’t need a little help with their skin and hair? Watermelon is full of vitamins A and C. Vitamin A helps create and repair skin cells, while vitamin C helps your body make collagen. Collagen helps keep your skin looking fresh and keeps your hair strong. This has to be one of our favorite top 5 health benefits of watermelon!

4. Relieves muscle soreness

Struggling with muscle soreness after a good workout? Studies show that increasing your water intake during and after a workout can help with muscle soreness. Since watermelon is 92% water, this makes it a great post-workout snack. Watermelon also contains citrulline, an amino acid that may help with muscle recovery.

5. Can help lower inflammation and stress

Inflammation can lead to many chronic diseases. Watermelon is rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants including lycopene and vitamin C, which can help ease joint inflammation and lower stress in the body. As you can see, there are many health benefits to eating watermelon!

Watermelon Recipes

Watermelon can be enjoyed in a number of different ways, from simply cubing it to adding it to your favorite drink. Take a look below at a few of our favorite watermelon recipes!