Watermelon is the perfect summer treat! Not only it `s mouthwatering and refreshing, but it provides many health benefits as well. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, which flush out toxins from the body and hydrate the body. However, this tasty fruit provides additional health benefits!
However, most people dispose of the rind, not knowing that this part is an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, and C, zinc, potassium, and magnesium. Red watermelons are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant which prevents various diseases. Finally, it is worth mentioning that the rind has been scientifically shown to contain 95 % of the nutritional value of watermelon.
Benefits of Watermelon Rind
- Boosts the Workout Benefits
Watermelons contain citruline, a type of amino acid which is needed by the muscles after a workout. Adding some watermelon rind to your chicken breasts or tuna is a great idea!
Watermelon rinds are high in citruline, which increases your sex drive and libido. It has been scientifically shown that citrulline is beneficial when it comes to mild erectile dysfunction. Therefore, it is not surprising that many libido-boosting supplements contain this ingredient.
Watermelon rinds supply the body with fiber and are an excellent tool for weight loss and preventing overeating. In addition to this, the rind acts as natural diuretic agent which flushes out excess fluid from the body.
People with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, could benefit a lot from the consumption of watermelon rinds. The rind regulates blood pressure by getting rid of excess water and it has been scientifically shown that watermelon rind extract is extremely effective in keeping blood pressure in check.
- Beneficial for the Urinary System
Watermelon rinds increase the production of urine and keep the urinary tract healthy, which in turn promotes proper kidney function an prevents potential urinary tract infections. Of course, make sure you consume 8-12 glasses of water on a daily basis.
Last but not least, lycopene reduces the risk of developing prostate cancer by up to 34 percent! Given the fact that it acts as potent antioxidant, it prevents other types of cancer as well, such as colon, esophagus, cervix, pancreas, and stomach cancer.
Therefore, it turns out that watermelon and all of its edible parts are extremely beneficial for the overall health. Try including the rinds into your stir-fries, stews, soups, and salads. Many people worldwide use them to make preserves, jams, candles, and relishes.
Source: healthywayoflive.com
