The influence of watermelon on. Useful properties of watermelon for a woman's body. How to use watermelon. What is combined with in cooking
The healing properties of watermelon are due to the chemical composition, because it contains substances such as:
Despite the impressive list useful substances, watermelon is 90% water, so it quickly leaves the body. This berry is an ideal diuretic and gentle laxative, which has no analogues among vegetables and fruits. Removing excess fluid and deposits of harmful salts, watermelon at the same time saturates us with useful salts of potassium, silicon and magnesium. Since these elements heal the muscles and bone tissues body, this delicacy is indispensable for cardiovascular and joint diseases.
Watermelon is not a fruit, but a berry, its fruit is called pumpkin Magnesium binds salts of oxalic acid, which will prevent the formation of oxalate and urate kidney stones. This element, paired with potassium, restores electrolyte balance in chronic constipation. Magnesium lowers blood pressure and helps fight stress.
The sweet berry contains a significant amount of the carotenoid lycopene. In 120 g of pulp - the daily norm of a person. This antioxidant rejuvenates the body and enhances the protective capabilities, fending off the attacks of free radicals.
Watermelon owes its red color to the pigment lycopene. This berry is in 3rd place in terms of carotenoid content, ahead of it are only rose hips and guava.
The pulp contains B vitamins and alkaline compounds that normalize the acidity of the gastrointestinal tract, create favorable conditions for the development of beneficial microflora and the healing of inflammation. Due to these properties, it is desirable to include watermelon in the diet of patients with gastritis. Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis and preservation of DNA, its deficiency is dangerous during pregnancy.
Without copper, iron and cobalt, the normal process of hematopoiesis and metabolism is impossible. Their lack leads to a breakdown, memory impairment and anemia. Silver, copper and ascorbic acid suppress the vital activity of pathogens, act as antiseptics. In addition, these substances quickly heal and restore the mucous membranes.
The body needs the amino acid citrulline to saturate tissues and cells with oxygen and nutrients. In this regard, watermelon is useful for high physical and mental stress. This substance dilates blood vessels and reduces pressure. Fiber and pectins improve digestion and act as sorbents - they absorb toxins in the stomach and intestines, therefore they are used as an additional remedy in the treatment of intoxication with drugs and poisons, after surgery or a long illness. Pectin substances lower blood cholesterol levels and are recommended for diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Among the saccharides in the fragrant berry, glucose predominates, which is converted into energy or deposited in the liver, muscles in the form of glycogen. By enjoying watermelon, we replenish these reserves, which helps to alleviate the condition of liver diseases.
Medicinal products from it
IN traditional medicine watermelon itself, the white part of the peel, juice, grains and oil are used. Means from this gourd culture are easy to prepare and effective, which has been proven by the experience of thousands of people who have recovered their health.
Fresh
The pulp contains coarse fibers, so in case of disorders of the stomach and intestines, it is better to use juice. Fresh is not only a therapeutic and supportive remedy, but also a delicious refreshing drink.
Fresh juice is squeezed each time, it is a perishable product. Drink it slowly in small sips half an hour before meals. When used together with food, not having time to assimilate, fresh will ferment, which will lead to a loss of the meaning of the procedure and flatulence. This remedy quickly restores the body after illness and operations, if taken 200 ml three times a day.
If you add ice chips to the juice, you get a refreshing summer drink. Two to three glasses of juice a day is an excellent supportive therapy for atherosclerosis, coronary disease and anemia. Enhance the healing effect apple juice. Drinking 400 ml of fresh juice immediately will remove the headache. One glass will relieve heartburn. For osteochondrosis, arthritis and gout, take 150 ml of the drink three times a day. Before going to the gym, you should drink fresh juice, watermelon citrulline will prevent muscle pain.
With painful and bleeding hemorrhoids, a compress of watermelon juice will help: cotton swabs moistened with it are applied to sore spots for 1 hour.
Peel
Watermelon peels should not be thrown away, it is better to dry or use immediately for cooking. healing remedies. They contain the same substances as the pulp, but in a more concentrated form, since there is less water in the peel. Fresh and dried peel is used as a diuretic, choleretic and analgesic. Like fresh watermelon, it relieves inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and treats constipation. Before use or drying, the hard colored layer is cut off from the crusts, only the light part is useful. It is cut into convenient pieces and dried in the oven at a temperature of 55-60 degrees. Decoctions and infusions are prepared from dried raw materials, after grinding them into powder.
A cleansing bowel and a diuretic are prepared as follows: 2 teaspoons of crushed peels are brewed with a glass of boiling water and infused for half an hour. To achieve a therapeutic effect, drink 3 glasses per day.
With nephritis and cystitis, sand in the kidneys, bladder and ureter, traditional healers prescribe 1 teaspoon of peel powder three times a day before meals. The course lasts 1 week.
seeds
The seeds contain the same substances as in the watermelon itself and semi-fiber, which contains saccharides that do not dissolve in water. These substances increase the cleansing properties of seeds. They prepare a well-known anthelmintic agent:
Take a drink every 2 hours for 1 teaspoon until the worms come out. To relieve fever and cholelithiasis infusion is consumed in a third of a glass half an hour before meals. In the same way it is drunk in jaundice and dropsy.
Uterine bleeding is stopped with watermelon "milk": crush the seeds and mix with cow's milk in a ratio of 1:10. Insist 6 hours. This remedy helps with heavy menstruation when taking 3 tbsp. spoons every two hours.
To normalize high blood pressure within a month they are treated with a folk remedy: an equal amount of dried peels and seeds are ground into powder and eaten 1/2 teaspoon twice a day. As a cholagogue, the mixture is taken in 2 teaspoons.
Can watermelon seeds germinate in the stomach - video
Oil
The seeds of watermelon are concentrated nutrients for the continuation of life, including 25% fatty oil. Only cold-pressed oil is used for medicinal purposes. This is a laborious process, so it is easier to buy it. Unlike the pulp of watermelon, the oil contains unsaturated fatty acids with a predominance of linoleic, up to 60%. This substance is vital for metabolism, but is not produced by the body itself, therefore it must be supplied with food. Linoleic acid strengthens the heart and blood vessels, inhibits inflammation, speeds up metabolism and promotes weight loss.
To prevent the formation of stones and diseases of the liver, stomach, prostate gland, 1 teaspoon is prescribed every other day for 1 month. With sand in the kidneys and gallbladder, use 2 teaspoons 4 times a day for a course of 3-6 months.
To eliminate peeling oil lubricates the skin with eczema.
Watermelon oil is not washed down with water and is not subjected to heat treatment.
What and how is treated with it
This berry is very useful, but in the treatment serious illnesses It is used only as an addition to the main therapy after consultation with a doctor.
hello immune system
A little-known fact, but watermelon is used for flu, respiratory tract infections, colds, as an immunoprotector and anti-inflammatory agent. Due to the high content of lycopene and vitamin C, eating sweet berries will protect immune cells from destruction and speed up recovery. In addition, bacterial poisons are neutralized, which relieves painful symptoms and improves well-being. If possible, it is better to drink 1 glass of freshly squeezed juice twice a day.
With sore throat and pharyngitis, gargle with watermelon juice up to 5 times a day.
Yellow varieties of watermelon are not as healthy as red varieties due to their lower lycopene content. goodbye constipation
Watermelon fibers improve intestinal motility, so they can easily relieve constipation. Especially if the difficult stool is caused by insufficient water intake. This berry will so saturate the body with liquid that it will part with feces without regret. It is enough to eat 1 kg daily for 5 days to normalize digestion.
No salts and edema
At the mention of watermelon, its diuretic effect is immediately recalled. Its pulp does not irritate the organs of the excretory system and is prescribed for edema caused by disorders of the kidneys and heart. The berry is especially useful for chronic glomerulonephritis. Regular consumption of watermelon leads to a decrease in joint pain and the removal of excess uric acid salts, therefore it is recommended for gout, osteochondrosis and urolithiasis.
For the listed diseases, fasting days twice a week. On a watermelon day, from 2 to 2.5 kg of berries are eaten in several doses, but not more than 300 g at a time.
The kidneys are well cleansed if you lie down in a hot bath before going to bed while eating watermelon. The most active time for the kidneys to work is from 2 to 3 am, this period is the most suitable for the procedure.
Cookies for sweets
Watermelon pulp has a beneficial effect on the liver, nourishing with glucose, which is easily absorbed. To strengthen the liver, it is necessary to eat 500 g of pulp instead of dinner and breakfast for 5 days, and drink only water for lunch. Such a mono-diet is difficult to maintain, but it will significantly improve the condition of the liver.
Gallbladder crusts
For the treatment of liver and gallstone disease, an infusion of watermelon peels will come in handy.
Half a glass of infusion is drunk 20 minutes before meals. Course duration: 24 days. This remedy is taken in the same doses for colitis and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, edema for a week.
If there is no peel, the gallbladder is also treated with watermelon juice, drinking 150 ml three times a day.
Decoction for inflammation of the stomach and intestines
Watermelon is allowed for colitis and gastritis with high or low acidity, but in reasonable doses. Overeating the pulp will create unnecessary pressure on the damaged walls of the stomach. To benefit from the berry, eat 1-2 slices at a time. Such an amount, on the contrary, will entail the restoration of mucous membranes.
For the treatment of inflammation of the stomach and intestines, a healing decoction of crusts is used.
Drink half a glass before each meal up to 6 times a day.
Such a healthy watermelon diet
Despite the fact that there are only 30 kcal in 100 g of pulp, nothing can fill you up like a ripe watermelon. The fiber will simply fill the space in the stomach and leave no room for other food. Therefore, fasting days on a watermelon are pleasant and easy. It will relieve the feeling of hunger, excess fluid, salts and toxins.
Translated from the Turkic languages, watermelon means "donkey cucumber": these animals love to satisfy their hunger and thirst You can follow the diet for no more than two days, the load on the excretory system is too great. In addition, this berry is not so saturated with minerals and vitamins to completely replace other foods. By washing out salts, you can overdo it and disrupt the water-salt balance of the body. From 1.5 to 2 kg of watermelon and 200 g of crackers are eaten per day. You can't drink coffee or tea, only water. The last intake of sugar treats is 4 hours before bedtime. Such a mono-diet is contraindicated in pancreatitis, kidney pathologies, or the presence of stones from half a centimeter in diameter. Unfortunately, weight loss occurs due to the loss of excess fluid, not fat, therefore, to obtain significant results, fasting days are repeated after 4–5 days.
To maintain the achieved weight loss in the following days, eat low-fat food, mainly protein-carbohydrate. It can be cereals with dried fruits, fish with mashed potatoes without oil, chicken fillet with rice. If you follow the above recommendations, you can fit into last year's swimsuit, and with special diligence - into a new, smaller size.
Is it possible during pregnancy and breastfeeding
For nursing and expectant mothers, watermelon without nitrates will bring undoubted benefits due to the folic, ascorbic acid, magnesium, potassium and copper that are part of it. The body especially needs these substances in the first trimester for the normal development of the fetus. However, during pregnancy, the bladder is subjected to pressure from the fetus, resulting in an increased urge to urinate. Eating watermelon can exacerbate this uncomfortable state. In addition, it contains a lot of sugars and fibers that cause fermentation, so the joint use with long-digesting foods leads to pain and severe gas formation. This can affect the tone of the uterus.
Doctors also advise limiting salt intake if watery berries are included in the menu to avoid fluid accumulation and swelling. Do not interfere with the kidneys to remove moisture.
The main risk in breastfeeding- nitrates in milk. To protect the child, buy only high-quality products. To determine the concentration harmful substances test strips can be used. If the content of nitrates exceeds 100 mg per 1 kg, this product is not suitable for a future or nursing mother. Another catch lies in the fact that 2 kg of the pulp of even a high-quality watermelon will make up the daily intake of nitrates. Therefore, the maximum for lactating and pregnant women is 4 slices per day, divided into 2 doses, separately from other food to avoid fermentation. 2 hours before and an hour after eating watermelon, do not eat anything else.
How to choose the right watermelon - video
How much and when to give children
Recently, cases of watermelon poisoning have become more frequent. This is due to the eating of early fruits, ripened in an unnatural way and overfed with nitrogen, which should not be offered to children. Only berries that have ripened by the end of August are suitable for babies, starting from 2 years old. Before reaching this age, due to the diuretic effect and the burden on the kidneys, it is not recommended to include in the menu. From 2 to 3 years old, the child is given up to 100 g of watermelon. From 3 to 6 years - up to 150 g.
For very young children, watermelon is a heavy food, let them feast on it, but little by little, 1-2 slices Before buying, check the integrity of the peel, if there is a small dent with a puncture in the center, the watermelon was "pricked" with saltpeter.
When serving a juicy treat, it is worth removing the bones so that the baby does not choke. If the grain is swallowed - it's not scary, it will come out with the next chair. To reduce the likelihood of nitrate poisoning, cut out the middle of the fruit, away from the skin. The flesh should be evenly colored, without veins. If the watermelon is of poor quality, there will be symptoms of poisoning:
If any of these symptoms appear, call your doctor. Watermelon nitrate poisoning is dangerous for children, as oxygen supply to the tissues is disrupted. Before the doctor arrives, let the child mineral water without gas and sorbents. To relieve pain in the abdomen, antispasmodics are taken, but not analgesics, since the latter mask the course of appendicitis, because the symptoms of inflammation of the appendix and poisoning are similar.
Home watermelon cosmetology
Striped berry is great for any type of facial skin. Cosmetics from it are popular because they bring many benefits:
Regular rubbing of the face with a piece of watermelon will give the skin velvety and elasticity, smooth out fine wrinkles. All parts of the watermelon are involved in facials. Before use, make sure there is no allergy by conducting a 10-minute test on the skin of the elbow. The strongest therapeutic effect is produced by homemade masks, which are no worse than salon products. They are applied to cleansed skin for 30 minutes and washed off with warm water.
The most healing beauty product from watermelon is an oil that absorbs well and allows the skin to breathe without leaving a greasy film. It protects, nourishes and restores the skin. This tool is indispensable for eliminating the consequences sunburn, as it moisturizes well and relieves inflammation. The oil is so gentle on the skin that it is suitable for the care of the skin of the lips and around the eyes.
Acne is treated by oiling cleansed skin in the morning and evening for 3-6 months. When baldness is rubbed into the scalp every 3 days and at the same time taken orally 1-2 teaspoons a day for up to six months.
Watermelon fresh is frozen in the freezer for use as a tonic and treatment for sunburn. Ice cubes from the juice will relieve pain and heal the skin.
The sweetest melon culture is also used for hair care. A watermelon mask will give your hair a healthy shine and strength: 1 teaspoon almond oil mixed with 5 tbsp. spoons of pulp. The mixture is applied to the hair from roots to ends and washed off after half an hour with regular shampoo.
We stock up for the future
Watermelon pickles are almost as healthy as fresh fruit and are worth including in your diet. If you come across an unripe watermelon, do not be discouraged, but ferment or pickle it. Dense pulp will retain its shape and will be nice to crunch. Too ripe fruits are not suitable for salting.
Who once tried a watermelon, he knew what angels eat.
Mark Twain
To enjoy the giant berry longer, you can ferment it. In this recipe, watermelon is not subjected to heat treatment, so all vitamins and nutrients are preserved. We will need:
Pickled watermelon is a great way out, if an unripe fruit was bought, it will become much tastier after sourdough, picking up the aroma of spices For those who like spicy at the bottom of the jar put 1 tbsp. a spoonful of dry mustard.
Salty
This unusual dish has its supporters and opponents, to find out which camp you belong to, try new recipe. For spicy pickles, take:
Salted watermelon is both an excellent snack and prevention of colds in winter Contraindications and harm
Watermelon is a universal dietary product. However, it is not advisable to eat it in the following conditions:
Due to the high glycemic index, eating watermelon with diabetes is only possible in small doses. In the first type, no more than 200 g is eaten at a time, 600 g per day. In the second type, a single dose is 100 g, a daily dose is 200–300 g.
With pancreatitis, watermelon is prohibited, because the patient is not able to digest it due to insufficient production of enzymes by the inflamed pancreas. This will lead to bloating, flatulence, diarrhea and deterioration of the gland. Watermelon pickles should not be consumed by patients with kidney ailments, excess salt makes it difficult for the kidneys to work.
If the seeds were eaten with the pulp, do not be afraid, nothing bad will happen, they will come out with a stool.
So that watermelons do not cause harm, they are bought in season - from the last decade of August to the end of September. At this time, it is already unprofitable for farmers to stuff melons with nitrates. At this time, melons are already too cheap compared to the price of fertilizers. But before use, it is still worth checking for the presence of nitrates: if you knead high-quality pulp in water, it will simply become cloudy, and not turn pink.
Today we will talk about the benefits and harms of watermelons, because we are all familiar with watermelon, it perfectly quenches thirst and is very tasty. Adults and children love it, but not everyone knows how good a watermelon can be for health. The birthplace of watermelon is South Africa, watermelon was brought to Europe during the time of the Crusades, and in Russia it appeared in the 16th century, however, the massive use of this berry of the family pumpkin began in our country only in the 19th century.
It was then that the unusually healthy watermelon began to be used not only as a juicy treat, but also as a wonderful source of vitamins and minerals, as well as an excellent tool for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.
Watermelon is useful at any age, and its healing properties are successfully used not only in folk, but also in official medicine.
How many nutrients are in watermelon?
- The watermelon berry contains almost 12% of sugars: sucrose, glucose and fructose, the main part of which is fructose.
- also in watermelon contains a large number of trace elements: iron, magnesium, sodium, potassium, nickel and manganese. In terms of magnesium content, watermelon surpasses many vegetables, fruits and berries.
- He is beautiful source of vitaminsPP, C, B1 and B2, pectin, provitamin A, fiber and folic acid.
- Watermelon seeds are saturated with fatty oils, they contain lots of vitamin D and B. Also, watermelon oil is made from watermelon seeds.
Benefits of watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds, or rather seeds, will benefit the body only if they are chewed before swallowing, although they are not very tasty, they can be useful in not very large quantities. They 25% protein and amino acids, which play an important role during the period of active growth of the body, in the formation muscle mass and to maintain energy.
IN watermelon seeds contain arginine – an important amino acid that has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. The more it is in the body, the more stable the pressure and the lower the risk of getting coronary disease.The fats present in watermelon seeds reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood, and the omega-6 amino acid can reduce high blood pressure. Of the B vitamins in seeds, the largest amount niacin- it has a positive effect on the nervous and digestive systems, as well as the skin.
Another important element– Dietary fiber that ensures the health of the digestive system . In addition, watermelon seeds have a hemostatic effect, they are also used as an antihelminthic.
Is watermelon healthy?
In seeds, like watermelon pulp and rind contains citrulline- a rather controversial amino acid, because the human body itself is able to produce it. Some scientists believe that citrulline is useless, and even harmful, but this applies in particular to people with citrullinemia, a genetically determined metabolic disorder.
However, it is known that citrulline is often present in sports nutrition, and in special clinics they even treat impotence. Besides, independent studies have shown that the amino acid is an excellent antioxidant and has vasodilating properties.
What is useful watermelon juice and its pulp?
Since ancient times, watermelon juice has been known as a wonderful diuretic. watermelon juice It is very useful to drink with edema caused by diseases of the heart and kidneys.In addition, the use of watermelon juice contributes to the speedy dissolution of salts, prevents the formation of stones and sand in the kidneys. In addition, the juice is able to saturate the body with easily digestible saccharides.
Benefits of watermelon rind
It is known that even more effective diuretic effect has the juice of white pulp, located immediately under the watermelon rind. You can drink juice no more than half a glass at a time, since its effect is quite strong.
The juice of the white pulp is almost tasteless, so you can dilute it with various juices. Also, in order to expel excess fluid from the body, a decoction of watermelon peels is prepared.
The healing properties of watermelon
Watermelon juice also has other medicinal properties, it contains pure distilled water, which allows it to be used in the treatment of liver diseases.
Incredible medicinal properties watermelon is also able to cleanse the body of toxic substances, and has proven itself in case of poisoning. For the same purpose doctors recommend taking it after long-term drug treatment and anesthesia.
A the fiber contained in the pulp of watermelon stimulates the production of beneficial intestinal microflora.
Watermelon for weight loss
Besides fiber has recently been recognized by nutritionists as one of the most useful substances for cleansing the body and losing weight. And thanks to its low calorie content, it is an excellent remedy for obesity and during therapeutic fasting. It also has an antipyretic and tonic effect.
And of course, watermelon juice is a great thirst quencher, especially during the hot summer months.
Watermelon harm
The benefits of this wonderful berry are undeniable, but watermelons grown in bad faith, using hazardous fertilizers, and violating storage rules can be dangerous and harmful to health.
The main danger is nitrates. Transforming in the human body into nitrites, they can provoke the development oncological diseases. And if the watermelon was stored for too long, then the formation of nitrites from nitrates occurs in the berry itself.
Such watermelons with nitrates are especially dangerous for kidney patients and babies. To avoid disastrous consequences, you should not give watermelon to a child under 2 years old, when the baby's body is not yet strong enough. The exception is home grown watermelon when you know it doesn't contain dangerous chemicals.
The safest watermelons sold in late summer - early autumn, then it is more likely that they have ripened on their own.
Watermelon contraindications
There are also contraindications to the use of even high-quality watermelons. They apply to individuals with the following pathologies:- Violation of the outflow of urine;
- Diarrhea;
- Colitis;
- Ulcer of the duodenum and stomach;
- Gastritis with high acidity;
- Too big kidney stones.
Features of the use of watermelon
Watermelon can be consumed both separately and in the form of juice, dessert and even ice cream. There are many recipes for cooking dishes from this wonderful berry.
But you should know that watermelon must be eaten separately from other food. The fact is that watermelon, like other fruits and berries, is not digested in the stomach, but in the intestines, so if you use it with foreign food, it will linger in the stomach and begin to sour, as a result of which a lot of gases will form. It is recommended to eat watermelon 2 hours before or after the main meal.
However, no matter how useful a watermelon would be, it should be remembered that everything should be in moderation! And any even the most powerful medicine can, if used rashly, be poison.
But watermelons, when eaten wisely, have always been and will be one of the most delicious and the best means, capable of quenching thirst, and its benefits for good health and filling the body with vitamins simply cannot be overestimated. So more wisdom to you and bon appetit!
Also on our portal of Education and Self-Development you can, and read, and other tasty and healthy berries, fruits, and vegetables.
Juicy, sweet, surprisingly tasty watermelon. Under our close attention - the benefits and harms of this huge berry. All its parts are useful for the body. The pulp contains antioxidants, folic acid, magnesium. It perfectly quenches thirst and cleanses the kidneys. Watermelon rind will help to cope with headaches and problems with the urinary system. And the bone will accelerate the treatment of inflammatory processes and jaundice.
In order to fully experience the beneficial properties of watermelon, it is important to choose and store it wisely. This problem is especially relevant for the reason that for most regions of our country the berry is exotic, imported.
Benefit
Useful properties of pulp
- Watermelon is rich in folic acid, which is involved in the structure of DNA and helps the proper development of the fetus. The substance is necessary for proper hematopoiesis. Therefore, "folk" is prescribed for the speedy recovery after chemotherapy.
- Just a few pieces - and you want to go to the toilet. The effect of diuretic properties of delicacies is explained. Watermelons well remove toxins from the kidneys, prevent the deposition of salts and stones, cleanse the body.
- Magnesium helps the absorption of minerals and vitamins. Strengthens nerve and muscle fibers. Helps to stabilize the mental state, fights fatigue, irritation. Watermelon performs well as an antidepressant.
- Every day a couple of slices of watermelon are good for the immune system. The berry is a source of many vitamins and minerals. Helps cleanse the liver. As a result, the body can more easily cope with the stressful effects of the environment.
- The pulp contains fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels. Therefore, the berry is useful to eat in the presence of cardiovascular diseases.
- Watermelon is one of the few treats allowed for diabetes. The glycemic index of the sweet berry is 65-75. It's a lot. But 90 percent of the pulp is water. Therefore, carbohydrates have little effect on blood sugar levels. The glycemic load of a 100-gram serving of treats is only 6.6.
- The chemical composition of the pink pulp contains lycopene, which reduces the risk of developing oncology of the breast, prostate, lungs, stomach, and intestines.
- In watermelons high level citrulline. The substance protects cardiovascular system and strengthens the immune system.
- Regular and prolonged use allows progress in the treatment of gastritis.
- Phenylalanine contained in the striped berry helps prevent Parkinson's disease. Therefore, it is useful for people in old age to feast on juicy pulp.
Fresh watermelon is useful to include in the diet in the presence of heart disease, liver and gallbladder diseases, Botkin's disease, hypertension and urolithiasis, nosebleeds.
Watermelon is effective for weight loss. There is even a special watermelon diet that is very popular among those who lose weight. The benefits and harms of this way of bringing yourself into shape:
Why is weight loss happening? How does watermelon help? Its calorie content, benefits and harms:
- excess fluid is removed from the body;
- the pulp fills the stomach - a person feels full for several hours;
- in 100 g of the product - only 31 calories.
You can’t “sit” on a watermelon diet for more than five days. It is allowed to eat 1-1.5 kg of pulp per day. Abuse may cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract, dehydration, diarrhea.
Most safe option diets - fasting days "on watermelons".
Scientists have proven the benefits of watermelon for men. The chemical composition of the pulp contains citrulline. In the body, this substance is converted into arginine, which dilates blood vessels. As a result, potency increases.
Benefits of watermelon peel
Let's take a closer look at the striped peel of the berry: what are its benefits and harm to health.
- To reduce a throbbing, sharp headache, you need to attach watermelon peels to the temples.
- An infusion of the peel helps with colitis. Approximately 100 g should be poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water. Leave for a couple of hours. Drink the entire portion throughout the day, divided into 3-4 doses. The duration of therapy is 15 days.
- Watermelon peel powder is an excellent diuretic. Facilitates the course of chronic cystitis, nephritis, urolithiasis.
seed properties
The chemical composition of watermelon seeds is similar to pumpkin seeds. Their benefits and harms to the body have been known to people for a very long time. But for some reason, watermelon seeds are not used so often in folk medicine. Although it is an amazing remedy for the treatment
- jaundice;
- inflammatory processes;
- bleeding.
In the presence of such conditions, prepare an infusion of 1 part crushed seeds and 10 parts fresh milk. Take half a glass on an empty stomach.
Deal with fever quickly high temperature watermelon milk helps. The crushed seeds are poured cold water in a ratio of 1:10. You can add a little sugar. Drink every two hours for 3 tbsp. l.
Harm
The main danger is not the watermelons themselves, but the methods of their cultivation and storage. Unscrupulous producers fertilize plantations with harmful fertilizers to increase the mass of berries. The use of "poisoned" pulp in food can provoke poisoning, a serious illness.
- Due to lack sunlight and high humidity, nitrates accumulate in watermelon pulp (fertilizers that farmers most often use). Getting into gastrointestinal tract, they are transformed into dangerous nitrites and nitroso compounds. These substances stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
- Nitrates are converted to nitrites in the berry itself during long-term storage.
- Nitrites have a bad effect on the transport function of the blood. As a result, the level of hemoglobin decreases, hypoxia may occur. Such conditions are especially dangerous for children, "cores", patients with pathologies of the respiratory and excretory systems.
The natural ripening of watermelons occurs at the end of summer - the beginning of autumn. It is during this period that there are more chances to buy a quality fruit.
Signs of poisoning with a "poisonous" berry (appear after 1-2 hours or 1-2 days):
- weakness and nausea;
- stool disorder;
- sharp pain in the abdomen;
- heat;
- vomit;
- headache.
The intensity of the symptoms depends on the state of health, the individual reaction of the body, the concentration of harmful substances in watermelons.
Contraindications
- Children's age up to 2 years (due to high risk treat the child with nitrates and nitrites).
- Violations of the outflow of urine (the diuretic effect of watermelon only aggravates the condition).
- Large stones in the kidneys or ureters (the berry can provoke their movement).
- Colitis or diarrhea.
Can pregnant and lactating women
Watermelons in moderation are beneficial for pregnant and lactating women:
- vitamin B9 is involved in the formation of the fetal nervous system;
- the pulp contributes to the normal digestion of the expectant mother;
- watermelon improves lactation, increases the amount of breast milk;
- replenishes iron deficiency, which is often observed during pregnancy and lactation.
Overeating can cause discomfort and pain in the intestines.
Composition (vitamins and trace elements)
| Name | Content in 100 g |
| vitamins | |
| Vitamin A | 18 mcg |
| beta carotene | 0.1 mg |
| Thiamine | 0.05 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.07 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Folic acid | 9 mcg |
| Ascorbic acid | 6 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.12 mg |
| Vitamin PP | 0.4 mg |
| Minerals | |
| Potassium | 111 mg |
| Sodium | 17 mg |
| Calcium | 13 mg |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Phosphorus | 8 mg |
| Iron | 1.1 mg |
The chemical composition of watermelon pulp contains essential amino acids:
- arginine - 0.017 g;
- valine - 0.01 g;
- tryptophan - 0.008 g;
- leucine - 0.02 g;
- lysine - 0.06 g;
- histidine - 0.007 g;
- isoleucine - 0.03 g;
- threonine - 0.03 g;
- methionine (with cysteine) - 0.016 g;
- phenylalanine - 0.02 g.
The juicy berry is rich in essential amino acids such as: alanine, aspartic and glutamic acid, serine, tyrosine, glycine, cysteine, proline.
How to cook
Salads, desserts, liqueurs, drinks, jams and honey are prepared from watermelons; they are also pickled, canned, salted. But fresh berries bring great benefits.
- Before cutting the watermelon, wash thoroughly under running warm water and soap.
- Eat the pulp, cutting off about 3 centimeters of the peel.
- For children, offer pieces cut closer to the core.
Storage
For long-term storage, homemade, self-grown fruits are best. Watermelon is removed from the lashes approximately 5 days before full maturity. Try not to damage the skin. Transported in boxes with soft bedding in one layer (in no case should you pile it up).
Purchased berries are also suitable for long-term storage. But only quality ones.
Long term storage conditions:
- Each watermelon must first be washed and dried. Before laying, cover with straw for a day to dehydrate the bark.
- Best of all, the berry is stored in a suspended state in a soft net. You can use shelves or drawers by lining them with dry rags.
- The optimum temperature is 6-8 degrees above zero. You also need good ventilation.
- The humidity in the storage room is 60-80 percent. In such an environment, the fruits will not lose moisture.
- Before laying, the peel can be treated with 2% lime.
In no case should striped berries be stored in the same room as potatoes or other vegetables. Late-ripening varieties with a high content of pectins (Volga, Central Asian) are best preserved.
Berries are inspected daily. If some become lighter or there are signs of rot, fungus on the bark, they are immediately removed from storage.
Under all conditions, watermelon can be stored for up to 3 months.
In a city apartment, a refrigerator, pantry, balcony, loggia, any dark room is suitable for storage. Even if it is not possible to create an optimal temperature regime, watermelon will last a month and a half.
Cut watermelon will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How to choose
To buy a quality, ripe, safe watermelon, follow these guidelines:
- The crust should be intact, without cracks, chips. Don't buy cut watermelon. In the pulp, bacteria multiply rapidly.
- Avoid roadside outlets. Melons easily absorb heavy metals.
- Berries should be stored in commercial trays under a canopy in a place specially designated for trade. Since the seller offers food, he must have a medical book, a sanitary permit, a certificate of conformity (which will indicate where the watermelon came from).
- The season for striped berries is the end of summer - autumn. We buy during this period.
- Do not take watermelons that are too large or small. The optimal weight is 4-5 kg.
- Signs of ripeness are a light yellow or orange barrel and a dry tail. If you knock on the crust, you get a sonorous and clear sound.
- The peel should be hard, shiny, with the most contrasting stripes, odorless. If it is easily pierced with a fingernail, the watermelon is not ripe. You feel the herbal smell - the watermelon is not ripe.
- A ripe berry floats when it is completely lowered into water.
- Watermelon-“girl” is sweeter, there are fewer seeds in the pulp. hallmark- a flatter and wider circle at the bottom of the berry.
The following signs indicate the abundance of nitrates in the pulp:
- rich red with a purple hue;
- yellow fibers (threads should be white);
- glossy smooth cut (should be velvety);
- if you lower the pulp into water, it will turn red (only turbidity is allowed).
What is combined with
According to nutritionists, watermelon should be eaten separately. An hour and a half after taking other products.
If you want to break this rule, then combine the juicy pulp of the berry with
- any fruit,
- nuts,
- salad greens,
- pickled cheese,
- ice cream, yogurt, milk,
- purple sweet onion
- honey and mint
- dried fruits and even smoked chicken.
Experiment and enjoy the amazing taste and great benefits of watermelon.
There are probably no people who are waiting for the summer to enjoy the wonderful taste of watermelon. In hot summer weather, a piece of watermelon will come in handy. After all, in addition to the amazing taste, it also has a number of useful properties. Let us consider in more detail in this article how watermelon affects the human body, its benefits and harms.
The chemical composition and calorie content of watermelon
Firstly, powerful diuretic properties, due to which body weight becomes objectively 1-2 kilograms less due to the removal of excess fluid from the body.
Secondly, watermelon perfectly satisfies hungry sensations. Here, the benefit of watermelon is that, having a low calorie content - only 38 kcal per 100 grams of pulp - watermelon fills the stomach, making it possible to forget about hunger.
At the same time, the sweet taste of this vegetable berry is of no small importance. Physiological studies have proven that sweetness is the best way to induce satiety. As a result, the fasting day “under the sign” of watermelon will be held in an easy mode, without unpleasant and painful thoughts about food.
Useful properties of watermelon
A lot can be said about the beneficial properties of watermelon. Thus, watermelons are famous for their diuretic properties in the elimination of edema, which are caused by cardiovascular abnormalities and kidney disease. Watermelon juice is a source of fructose, which, unlike regular sugar, is absorbed by the body faster. Watermelon is extremely useful in that in the presence of its fiber, intestinal motility increases, and excess cholesterol is removed faster.
According to nutritionists, 2.5 kilograms of watermelon pulp is allowed to be consumed during the day, but only this should be done evenly - in small portions. This requirement is especially relevant for people suffering from kidney stones, for whom watermelon is more useful than anyone else. In the body of such patients, the level of alkalinity of urine under the influence of watermelon substances increases, due to which even the largest stones dissolve without a trace.
Watermelon juice binds and naturally removes toxic substances from the liver. This extraordinary benefit of watermelon must be taken into account in chronic liver pathologies or food poisoning. A large consumption of this sweet vegetable is recommended after a course of treatment with antibiotic medicines.
The juice of the subcortical pulp of watermelon, which we usually throw away, is even more valuable than the juice of the red pulp from the point of view of having diuretic properties. If mixed with apple juice, it will make the drink more pleasant and refreshing. Thus, watermelon is very useful for its components, which at first glance seem unnecessary. However, it is not recommended to consume more than half a glass of the drink once, since the diuretic effect can be very strong.
Contraindications to the use of watermelon
No matter how useful this product is, however, there are a number of contraindications to the use of watermelon. The use of watermelon is not recommended for people who are sick diabetes, located at some stages of nephrolithiasis, with pyelonephritis, severe pathologies of the pancreas and prostate. You should not combine watermelon with pickles, as salt retains fluid in the body, and edema may develop.
If possible, make sure that the watermelon you buy yourself does not contain nitrates, which, if ingested, can lead to nausea, diarrhea, and even vomiting. If you can’t get confirmation of the purity of a vegetable, then you can still buy it, but in this case, remember that all the net benefits of watermelon are concentrated in its middle, and harmful nitrates accumulate in the peel. 
Today, even a child knows that a juicy watermelon belongs to the category of berries. However, not many people know about the maximum weight of the fetus, which is included in the Guinness Book of Records. In 2009, an aspect was recorded saying that the largest watermelon in the world weighs 122 kg. Agree, impressive value. If you add to this the undeniable benefits of berries, you can be completely shocked. Today we will talk about value and possible harm from watermelon consumption.
Calorie content of watermelon and use in dietetics
A slice weighing about 100 gr. concentrates in itself 24 kcal. Given that most of the mass is occupied by water, the value is not critical. This indicator leads many people to introduce watermelon into the diet menu.
Against this background, there is a complete cleansing of the kidneys, because the berry has a diuretic property. Weight loss is achieved by accelerating all metabolic processes, removing old waste, and preventing the absorption of fats.
Adherents of strict diets have even created a weight loss technique that allows you to get rid of extra pounds in a matter of days. The diet says that 10 kg. body weight is 1 kg. watermelon. If your weight is 70 kg, you can eat as much as 7 kg per day. watermelon. In this scenario, in a week you will lose about 6 kg.
The benefits of watermelon
- Folic acid, which is part of the watermelon, improves the structure of DNA, and also forms the fetus during pregnancy. This element is actively involved in the production of red blood cells. Folic acid is recommended for people who are undergoing chemotherapy.
- Diuretic action allows a person to cleanse the kidneys and at the same time remove all toxic substances. Also, this action is considered a powerful prevention from stones, sand in the kidneys and bladder.
- Watermelon cleanses the intestinal tract even from the oldest congestion that provokes constipation and other ailments of this kind. The berry enhances the absorption of useful elements of food into the blood.
- Magnesium relieves even chronic fatigue. It removes the feeling of anxiety, apathy, excessive irritability. The substance controls the psyche and emotional state.
- The berry is considered an excellent antidepressant. It will easily remove the consequences of the transferred stress, make the person immune to extraneous stimuli.
- Daily consumption of even 2 slices of watermelon increases the body's defenses. This quality is extremely valuable for categories of citizens who suffer from a low immune system by nature.
- The pulp contains a lot of coarse dietary fiber, which is necessary to create the correct microflora in the intestines. Also, the berry reduces cholesterol, thereby preventing diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
- Watermelon is approved for diabetics. He has an average glycemic index, therefore, does not exceed sugar levels. By controlling glucose levels, patients can lead a full life without compromising their health.
- Lycopene is included in the berry. The substance is used in the process of making remedies for oncological ailments of the prostate, lungs, mammary glands, intestines, and stomach. We can say that watermelon prevents cancer.
- Watermelon is used in the therapeutic treatment of gastric diseases, including gastritis. With prolonged and frequent use, ulcers on the mucous membranes are healed, the course of the disease is facilitated.
- The berry has a pleasant feature of reducing the likelihood of developing senile dementia in elderly people. Watermelon is also used to prevent Parkinson's disease.
- Magnesium included in the watermelon is extremely necessary for the heart muscle and the central nervous system. Berry improves mood, allows you to tune in to a positive wave. Watermelon prevents coronary artery disease, tachycardia, stroke with a heart attack.
- Not many people know that the most powerful diuretic effect is provided by the use of a white layer of watermelon, which is located near the pulp. To remove swelling and remove toxins, eat homemade watermelons. They are not fed with nitrates.
Seeds of large berries in their own positive properties reminiscent of pumpkins. They are often used to treat most ailments.
- Grains help to cure jaundice, eliminate bleeding, relieve inflammation. To prepare the potion, mix the ground bones with milk at room temperature. Stick to a ratio of 1 to 10. Consume in the morning on an empty stomach.
- To bring down the temperature during a fever, make watermelon milk. Pound the seeds in a mortar, mix with filtered water in a ratio of 1 to 9. Add sugar, take 1 time in 2 hours for 30 gr.
- To make a face mask with a rejuvenating effect, make a powder from dry watermelon pits. Mix with kefir in porridge, apply and wait a quarter of an hour.
Benefits of watermelon peel
- The peel has an equally valuable composition. The product has found application in traditional medicine. The peel effectively copes with some ailments.
- If you experience discomfort and sharp pains in the head, accompanied by throbbing, it is recommended to use a watermelon peel. Tape a piece of peel to the temples for a while.
- The composition helps in the treatment of colitis. Cut the product into small cubes, place in a heat-resistant vessel. Pour 100 gr. raw materials 500 ml. steep boil. Insist 3-4 hours, drink 5 times a day.
- For kidney stones, an excellent diuretic is used in the form of watermelon peel powder. The composition cleanses the bladder, ureter and helps with chronic cystitis, nephritis.
The benefits of watermelon for men
- Texas scientists conducted a series of studies, from which they found that watermelon is rich in circullin. The substance as a result of synthesis turns into arginine. The enzyme dilates blood vessels.
- From this, experts concluded that watermelon is the strongest tool for stimulating potency. The berry is several times superior to modern drugs of directed action. Thus, regular consumption of watermelon saturates the sex life.
- Eating berries contributes to rapid weight loss. It's no secret that watermelon is famous for its strong diuretic effect. It cleanses the body of excess fluid.
- The berry belongs to low-calorie foods, while it is able to suppress the feeling of hunger for long time. Studies have shown that fasting days are much more comfortable with watermelon.
Benefits of watermelon during pregnancy
- During gestation, watermelon is allowed to be eaten in moderation. The high content of folic acid in the berry allows the baby to develop properly. Sometimes experts separately prescribe a vitamin in the early stages.
- During the season, you should thoroughly approach the choice of watermelon, do not rush to acquire early berries. Peak ripening without chemicals occurs in August and September. Consult your doctor before consumption.
Watermelon harm
- In addition to useful qualities, the berry can be harmful. It is important to consider that the pulp is low in calories, but at the same time the glycemic index is medium. Watermelon after assimilation causes a strong appetite.
- It is forbidden to use berries for colitis and diarrhea. If you have problems with the outflow of urine, refrain from eating the pulp. In case of deviations in the activity of the kidneys, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The specialist will give precise instructions.
- Watermelon is contraindicated in pyelonephritis, otherwise there may be problems with the course of the disease. It is forbidden to consume fruits in any quantity with kidney stones. The diuretic effect can provoke the movement of neoplasms.
- In diabetes, consumption of watermelon in a small amount is allowed. To avoid side effects, consult your doctor. It is not recommended to eat watermelon for problems with the prostate and pancreas.
- Most often, watermelons are grown through the use of nitrates, so do not rush to introduce berries into the diet of a baby under 3 years old. Start with 100 gr. in a day.
For healthy person watermelon will bring undoubted benefits. It is important to choose a proven product. When using berries, be sure to read the contraindications and the absence of any in you.
Video: the incredible effect of watermelon on the body
