Watermelon Nutrition

Originating in Southern Africa, it was first cultivated in Egypt as depicted in hieroglyphics painted on building walls. Water was in short supply in countries of the Mediterranean and people could depend on thirst-quenching watermelon.

Watermelon Facts:

• The first watermelon harvest was 5000 years ago in Egypt, but it originated in Kalahari Desert.

• Russia, China and Turkey are the biggest producers.

• Over 1200 varieties is grown in 100 countries of the world.

• Every part of watermelon is edible including seeds and rind- the whitish green part between the skin and the red flesh.

• Salted and roasted watermelon seeds are also consumed as a snack in Arab countries.

Watermelon Nutrition and Health Benefits:

• Watermelon is rich in the B vitamins necessary for energy production.

• It is mildly diuretic and excellent for flushing out the kidney and bladder, taking out waste materials.

• Antioxidants that get rid of toxic wastes in the body hep indirectly reduce asthma attacks.

• As watermelon juice cleanses the body of toxic wastes, it also greatly reduces itchiness that result from toxicity of acidosis.

• Watermelon seeds are excellent sources of protein and oil: about 35% protein, 50% oil, and 5% dietary fiber.

• Watermelon is a rich source of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and smaller amounts of copper, iron and zinc.

• Watermelon juice can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by increasing the good cholesterol and preventing the bad cholesterol blocking the arteries.

• It has the amino acid Arginine to Prevent Erectile Dysfunction, Lower Blood Pressure, Improve Insulin Sensitivity.

Watermelon Glycemic Index:

Selecting and Storage:

• Don't buy watermelons that are white or pale green or very hard as they will be immature and acidic.

• Choose the ones free of bruises, cracks or mold, with a melon like fragrance or smell.

• The touch test is ineffective with watermelon because of the thick skin. You will need to thump and use your ears to pick the perfect one.

• Cut watermelon should be eaten immediately but the whole watermelon can last in the fridge up to a week.

*Here I'd like to tell you about my favorite diet program that uses a lot of the healthy lower GI foods: Isabel de los Rios' 'The Diet Solution Program'.

The Diet Solution Program favours a long term health orientated approach to fat loss, but not offering anyone a quick fix to their weight troubles. It has loads of valuable data and research to support its approach. I personally investigated the program thoroughly and my mum has been using it for a while now. I have to say she got some great results.

The nutrition plan is one of the healthiest we have seen, a strong core focus on vegetables, fruits, vitamin dense foods, lean proteins, select dairy produce and a clear approach to not expecting one diet to work for all body types. So give it a try and let me know how you’re doing.*

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Watermelon Nutrition .