10 Reasons & Ways to Eat Watermelon

Did you know that August is watermelon month? Regardless of what the calendar says, anytime is a good time to incorporate this refreshing fruit. Discover 10 reasons and ways to eat watermelon at any meal. No doubt, you’ll want to take note of these watermelon recipes with something to please each member of the family.

10 Nutritional Reasons to Eat Watermelon and 10 Ways to Enjoy it Now

There’s no doubt a fresh slice of this pink melon is a welcome treat on a hot day. However, exactly how does watermelon support health? Check out these facts about the nutritional value of summer’s favorite fruit. Plus, discover new ways to enjoy watermelon at breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack time or even as a pizza!

1. Watermelon Aids in Hydration

Like its name suggests, watermelon boasts a high water content. About 92% of this fruit is comprised of water. Not only is this great after a workout or a sweltering day at the beach, the water content is also beneficial for making you feel full—without filling you up on lots of extra calories.

Try a Watermelon Sports Drink

Harness the hydration powers of this superstar fruit with these Homemade Watermelon Sports Drinks. You’ll get electrolytes, fuel and hefty dose of hydration with all natural ingredients.

2. Watermelon is a Good Source of Vitamin C

This pretty-in-pink melon supports a healthy immune system. Watermelon protects cells from free radicals while offering 21% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

Try this Watermelon Tomato Gazpacho 

Gazpacho is a Spanish word referring to a chilled soup made of raw vegetables. New to the world of gazpacho? This Watermelon Tomato Gazpacho with Scallion Cilantro Relish may be the perfect introduction. 

3. Watermelon is a Rich Source of Citrulline

Your body uses the amino acid citrulline to make arginine. This is important for immune and reproductive health as well for producing nitric oxide, helping to expand blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

Try this Watermelon Ginger Smoothie Bowl

Start your day off right with this beautiful Watermelon Ginger Smoothie Bowl. 

4. Watermelon Contains Carotenoids 

In the human body, carotenoids play a powerful role as an antioxidant. They keep free radicals from damaging cells. Carotenoids in watermelon, such as beta-carotene, can be converted by the body to vitamin A and is beneficial for eye, bone and immune health. Watermelon offers around 18% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin A.

Try Watermelon Feta Salad

Searching for the ideal summer salad? Or just looking for one that your kids won’t pout about? Look no more! This Watermelon Feta Salad is a good way to take advantage of the carotenoid content of watermelon. Carotenoids are fat-soluble, meaning they are best absorbed in the presence of healthy fat like this vitamin-filled feta. 

5. Watermelon Offers Lycopene

What gives watermelon its red color? Lycopene! Watermelon is one of the highest sources of lycopene. This antioxidant is linked to various health benefits that keep your body functioning optimally.

Try Watermelon Mint Ice Pops

The whole family will love these Watermelon Mint Ice Pops! Recruit your little helpers to assist you in the kitchen to make these already delicious frozen treats even yummier!

6. Watermelon Provide Nutrients that May Benefit Heart Health

Is watermelon good for your heart? Well, according to this study, consuming watermelon reduced stiffness and thickness in artery walls in the research group. Watermelon contains specific nutrients that can support a healthy heart such as vitamin A, B6, C, magnesium and potassium.

Try Watermelon, Feta, Mint Skewers

Impress your dinner guests with these gorgeous Watermelon, Feta, Mint Skewers. 

7. Watermelon Might Aid Exercise Recovery

Need a good recovery drink after exercise? Why not try watermelon? The citrulline content may help with easing muscle soreness.

Try Watermelon Lime Protein Gummies

Want to get the benefits of watermelon in your system between gym and home? Consider whipping up a match of these Post Workout Watermelon Lime Protein Gummies! 

8. Arginine in Watermelon May Support a Healthy Glycemic Response

Insulin is a hormone with a crucial job: blood sugar control. With insulin resistance, your cells become resistant to the effects of insulin which means higher blood sugar levels and a possibility of diabetes. How might watermelon help with insulin resistance? Watermelon juice contains arginine that can improve glycemic response.  

Try Watermelon Salsa atop Shrimp Tacos

Know what your taco Tuesday is missing? These delightful Shrimp Tacos with Watermelon Pineapple Salsa. 

9. Watermelon May Improve Skin Health

Watermelon’s vitamin C and vitamin A can support healthy, glowing skin. Other compounds in watermelon may even help protect against sunburn.

Try a Frozen Watermelon Cocktail

Did someone say cocktails?! Yes, this  Watermelon Frosé Cocktail may be the perfect frozen drink to serve at your next summer party. Not to mention, it’s a creatively delicious way to incorporate the nutritional value of watermelon into your life. 

(Kids begging for their own watermelon beverage? You could try blending some ice cubes and watermelon chunks with a bit of honey for their own frozen mocktail.)

10. Watermelon Contains Cucurbitacin E

An anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich plant compound, cucurbitacin E is another reason to put watermelon on your grocery list this week.

Try Watermelon Panzanella with Fresh Mint

Still trying to decide what to make for dinner tonight? Why not try this Watermelon Panzanella with Fresh Mint? Panzella is an Italian bread salad that’s the perfect solution to the age old oh-no-this-bread-is-drying-out problem.

How to Pick the Perfect Watermelon

When selecting a watermelon, you’ll want to examine the outside for symmetry and firmness. When you tap it, it should sound like a hollow thud, an indication of the conditions of the fruit and water content inside. 

Do you have any additional watermelon tips? How is your family enjoying summer’s favorite fruit? Drop me a line on social media!