Food

9 Benefits of eating fava beans and side effects

Published

10 months ago

March 9, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

What are beans?
History of beans
- Nutrition facts of fava beans
Fava beans properties
Health benefits of eating fava beans
Uses of fava bean
Contraindications and side effects of fava beans
Why eat beans?
- Related
The health benefits of fava beans contain very good properties for the body and are allies of the health of those who consume them regularly. In this article, we will describe the characteristics and benefits of fava beans for health.

What are beans?

Broad beans are legumes, perhaps the best known in the world from Central America, whose scientific name is Phaseolus vulgaris.

The broad bean plant is an annual climber, belonging to the legume family, which also includes lentils, peas, chickpeas, lupins, broad beans, green beans, peas, peanuts, and soybeans.

There are many varieties of broad beans, the main characteristic of which is the fruit of various shapes and colors found in a pod.

History of beans

The oldest known domestic beans were found in the Guitarrero cave in Peru and date back to the second millennium BC (about 4,000 years ago).

Genetic analysis of the common broad bean, Phaseolus, shows that it originated in Mesoamerica and later spread southward.

The Egyptians considered beans to be an emblem of life and had temples dedicated to them.

Later, the Greeks and Romans used them in festivals to worship their gods.

Nutrition facts of fava beans

Fava beans are composed mainly of carbohydrates, beans are an excellent source of fiber and vegetable protein, so much so that they are called a “meat substitute.”

They contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that mainly supply potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B3, and folic acid.

In terms of caloric intake, fava beans develop 345 calories per 100 grams. Let’s take a look at the properties of beans and the characteristics of the nutrients present in the legume.

Fava beans properties

Fava beans are considered a source of vitamins and iron, it is undoubtedly one of the main foods to maintain a good diet and enjoy good health. Here are the main nutritional properties of beans:

• Proteins: The protein content of beans is quite high (¼ of the weight), which makes these legumes particularly interesting for consumption by vegetarians or vegans.

In addition, the richness in proteins, fibers, and the low intake of sugars make them the ideal food also for those who suffer from glycemic disorders.

• Carbohydrates: The main carbohydrate present in fava beans is starch, which represents approximately 48% of the total caloric content. Starch is made up of two polymers, amylose, and amylopectin.

Beans have a relatively high percentage of amylose compared to most other starchy food sources, a defining characteristic of the starch in these »slow-release« legumes as it is less easily digested than amylopectin.

The consumption of foods rich in slow-release starch causes a smaller and more gradual increase in blood sugar compared to other types of starch, which makes the consumption of beans is particularly indicated in people who suffer from diabetes or suffer from other disorders glycemic.

• Fibers: Fava beans are an excellent source of fibers whose benefits are to increase the sense of satiety, improve intestinal transit and reduce the absorption of sugars and simple fats, especially cholesterol.

• Vitamin C: Antioxidant par excellence, very common in fruits and vegetables and present in good quantities in beans, it is an essential cofactor in the synthesis of proteins and hormones, it contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress, to the normal function of the immune system.

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): Essential for normal cell function, tissue growth, to reduce physical and mental fatigue, and folate is very important for women’s health, especially during pregnancy and lactation.

• Potassium: Fava beans are a good source of potassium, the essential mineral involved in the control of blood pressure, heart health, nerve transmission, and hydro-saline exchange at the cellular level.

• Isoflavones: Class of antioxidants present in high amounts in soybeans. They have several more or less positive health effects and are classified as phytoestrogens due to their similarity to the female sex hormone, estrogen.

• Anthocyanins: antioxidants and pigments present in large quantities in the skin of beans and that give food their characteristic color.

• Phytohemagglutinin: Toxic lectin is found in large amounts in raw beans, especially red beans, which degrades with cooking.

Health benefits of eating fava beans

The synergy of the elements that you have just seen gives beans beneficial properties for the whole organism. Let’s see in detail what are benefits that these legumes bring.

1.- Benefits of fava beans for weight loss

Several studies have associated the consumption of fava beans with a lower risk of developing overweight and obesity, and this thanks to the fiber and protein content.

A 2010 study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, would have shown that, in overweight subjects, the consumption of legumes 4 times a week for 2 months would lead to a reduction in the pro-inflammatory state and greater weight loss compared to a diet that excludes these foods.

2.- Lactation and pregnancy

Fava beans are a good source of folate (vitamin B9), essential to prevent megaloblastic anemia and, especially, serious fetal malformations, such as neural tube defects (including spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele) and other malformations.

Adequate intake of vitamin B9 allows primary prevention of congenital malformations with a risk reduction of up to 70%.

3.- Benefits of fava beans for diabetes

The benefits of fava beans also extend to the prevention of diabetes: being rich in protein, fiber, slow-release carbohydrates, and a low glycemic index, these legumes are particularly effective in regulating blood glucose levels and therefore to prevent diabetes.

4.- Benefits of fava beans for cholesterol

Studies have confirmed that regular consumption of fava beans not only helps reduce total cholesterol but also bad cholesterol (LDL), which increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

5.- Colon cancer prevention

An observational study from 2009 and a meta-analysis from 2013 linked the consumption of legumes (including lima beans) to a lower risk of developing colon cancer.

Thanks to the action of fibers, resistant starch and alpha-galactosides (prebiotics), which, upon reaching the colon, are fermented by beneficial bacteria, which stimulate their growth and cause the formation of different compounds, such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate, which work by improving the health of the colon and reducing the risk of cancer in this area.

6.- Maintains heart health

Beans are “heart-healthy” because they contain a large amount of soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you prefer canned beans, you can get rid of up to 40 percent of the sodium by rinsing them with water.

7.- The longevity food number 1 in the world

Low-fat, fiber-packed lima beans are recognized as the longevity food of all diets.

8.- They are inexpensive

black beans are one of the most affordable protein sources available. Since they are much cheaper than meat or chicken and much healthier, many people choose to consume beans two or 3 times a week in their food or diet dishes.

9.- Feel full with fewer calories

Eating lima beans has been shown to increase feelings of fullness by 31 percent, resulting in less food intake and less body fat, even if calories are not restricted.

Uses of fava bean

For more absorption of the properties of the beans, the ideal portion is 150 g if they are fresh or frozen, 30-50 g if they are dry, 50 g for flour. To be consumed at least 3-4 times a week.

Tin grains should be avoided since they are rich in sodium (added to the storage liquid) and nickel due to the erosion of the metal container that would later be absorbed by our body.

If for practical reasons you want to buy them ready to use, it is better to opt for frozen beans, but it is recommended that you drain them and rinse them well before using them.

Adding fava beans to the diet is very simple, they can be a main dish, the dressing for pasta dishes, the central ingredient in a soup, or they can be eaten as an appetizer (great black bean hummus!).

Contraindications and side effects of fava beans

Fava beans provide a series of benefits to our health, their consumption is not without contraindications and it can also cause unpleasant side effects.

• Toxicity: Raw lima beans are toxic to both humans and animals and this is caused by phytohaemagglutinin, a lectin particularly present in kidney beans.

The main symptoms of bean poisoning include diarrhea and vomiting and may require hospitalization. Soaking and cooking the beans removes most of the toxin, making the beans safe.

• Anti-nutrients: Like all plant seeds, they contain a series of so-called anti-nutrients, they are substances that alter the absorption of nutrients.

The main antinutrients present in beans are phytic acid, a substance that hinders the absorption of certain minerals, such as iron and zinc; protease inhibitors, which inhibit the function of various digestive enzymes, compromising protein digestion.

Starch antagonists: alter the absorption of carbohydrates from the digestive tract.

• Flatulence and bloating: Among the most well-known contraindications of beans we find intestinal disorders.

In some people, the consumption of these legumes can cause unpleasant effects such as abdominal bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea.

It is a reaction caused by some compounds, the oligosaccharides in fiber, which, when fermenting in the intestine, form gas.

Why eat beans?

• Very nutritious, a source of protein and iron, among other things.

• Very frugal, especially if you use dried beans.

• quite easy to acquire, they can be found in various presentations.

• It is not very time-consuming and can make great meals that are easy to freeze for simple dinners later.

Related Topics:advantages benefits benefits of fava beans contraindications disadvantages fava beans benefits health nutrition side effects uses virtues

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6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil

Published

2 months ago

October 20, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil
How to make orange essential oil
- How we can prepare our essential orange oil.
Recommendations.
Discover the 6 Benefits of Orange Essential Oil + Recipe.Health Benefits of orange essential oil: The orange is a fruit known for its nutritional contributions, especially for being one of the most popular sources of vitamin C that exist, however, you really know the benefits of orange essential oil, it is used a lot in the world of aromatherapy because it is considered an antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and diuretic.One of the properties of orange essential oil is to be a powerful antidepressant and relaxant, which is used a lot in the world of aromatherapy, we will not only talk to you about its wonderful properties, but we will also teach you how to make your oil at home without so much trouble, so what remains is to invite you to continue reading this interesting article.
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6 Benefits of sweet orange essential oil

As we mentioned earlier, the orange essential oil is excellent for treating emotional states, which is why it is widely used in the world of holistic medicine, especially aromatherapy, and its benefits can improve not only your emotional state. but also the physical.

1.- Antidepressant.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: One of the benefits of orange essential oil is that it is considered an antidepressant and relaxant par excellence, it is used to help calm stress, promote relaxation of the body and mind.

The essential oil of orange leaves a very pleasant sensation in those patients who suffer from anxiety or depressive pictures, which helps them to heal and feel better about themselves and their environment.

2.- Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: We can highlight its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, with this we can fight and prevent infections, thanks to the fact that it prevents the proliferation of fungi and bacteria, which ends up favoring the disinfection of wounds.

On the other hand, this oil is ideal to help eliminate pain or discomfort typical of external or internal inflammations, not to mention its powerful properties to prevent viral symptoms such as flu or cold, in the same way, it is highly recommended to relieve stomach ailments and strengthen our system immune.

3.- Antispasmodic.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Another benefit of using orange essential oil for massage application is that it is antispasmodic par excellence, with just a few drops on the skin, it can help us overcome muscle spasms and relax the area, not to mention that it helps prevent future cramps.

4.- Stimulates the lymphatic system.

This rich and aromatic oil can be used in immersion baths, since it has diuretic properties, which favors the stimulation of the lymphatic system, helping us to eliminate accumulated toxins, and combat fluid retention, deflating the legs and getting rid of that sensation. of heaviness and rigidity that we can feel at the end of the day.

5.- Benefits of sweet orange essential oil sexually

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: One of the lesser-known properties of orange essential oil is that of being an exceptional aphrodisiac, although it is not very high if it gives short-term results, it has been used in cases of impotence, erection problems, frigidity or decrease libido and sex drive, so if you want to spice up your sex life, feel free to use this powerful oil.

6.- Benefits of sweet orange essential oil skin

For our skin, one of the benefits of orange essential oil is that it prevents premature aging since it helps to stimulate the production of collagen in our skin, you can benefit by adding a few drops of this oil to your cream, and you will notice shortly time as your skin looks younger, fresh and fresh.

How to make orange essential oil

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: We have already talked about the benefits of orange essential oil, but now is the time that you learn how to make yours at home and that you can enjoy its therapeutic properties whenever you want, not to mention its uses in cosmetics and physical health.

• Oranges

• Vodka.

• Jar with lid.

How we can prepare our essential orange oil.

Its preparation is very simple, and you do not require prior knowledge or artifacts in your kitchen, you must have all the ingredients at hand and follow the instructions to the letter, in this way you can obtain essential oil of orange from good quality and very inexpensive, so let’s get started.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: As a primary step to make the essential oil of oranges, you must peel the fruit, there must be no whitish traces of the orange peel, you can help yourself by scraping them to remove them completely, in the same way, consider that the greater amount of orange peels, the higher the concentration of the essential oil.

Now take a glass container that has an airtight lid, it must be clean and dry, there the orange peels are added and the vodka is added until the peels are completely covered, it closes very well and shakes very hard for a couple of seconds.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Once this step is done, this mixture is placed in a dark and cool place for at least a week, you must shake the bottle during this period, to obtain the highest possible content of orange essential oil.

As the week passes, the mixture is strained with the help of a coffee filter, this is done so that the impurities that come off do not pass, it is poured into a jar and the orange peels are removed, this container is placed in a place with good ventilation, for the alcohol to evaporate.

As the days go by, you will notice that the remaining liquid no longer smells of alcohol, you can already say that you have your orange essential oil, ready to be packaged and used, it is recommended that it be preserved in a dark jar with a lid in a place fresh, that way it will retain its benefits.

Recommendations.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: As you will see, making an essential oil of orange is very simple to do, although it takes some time, once you manage to obtain it, you will have so many benefits that you will not regret doing it.

Although it has many benefits, it can also have certain side effects, so that people who suffer from diabetes mellitus, those who are under medical treatments that contain cyclosporine, people who suffer from chronic hypertension, and prostatic hypertrophy, should not consume this oil. nor use it externally.

Health Benefits of orange essential oil: Among the most common side effects, we can find alterations in the heart rate or blood pressure, so its use is not recommended when taking stimulants such as coffee, in the cases of pregnant women and children, the dose cannot be exceeded recommended, it is best to consult with the treating physician before taking or using it.

Knowing the benefits of nature and technology can help us improve our health and the way we see life. If you want to know more about our topics, we invite you to continue reading our interesting posts and to follow us on our social networks.

Food

8 Benefits of chili peppers and side effects

Published

8 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

Health benefits of chili peppers
Side effects of chili peppers
Conclusion
- Related
- Discover the 8 Health benefits of chili peppers and side effects.
  Everyone is familiar with the use of peppers in cooking.
  
  Indeed, nothing like it brings more flavors to a recipe.
  
  But did you know that chili is also a precious health ally?
  
  Indeed, studies prove that eating chili once a month prolongs life expectancy.
  
  In addition, hot pepper contains 3 times more vitamin C than oranges!
  Health benefits of chili peppers
  
  Here are the 8 health benefits of chili peppers that everyone should know about. Look :
  
  1. Benefits of chili peppers for migraine
  
  Spray yourself with a chili-based spray in your nostrils?
  
  It tingles!
  
  And yet, this type of spray relieves migraines.
  
  These sprays are based on capsaicin, the organic compound in chili peppers responsible for their pungent flavor.
  However, capsaicin has an anesthetic effect on the trigeminal nerve of the brain.
  
  It is in this part of the brain that certain types of migraines and severe headaches begin.
  
  In one study, 7 out of 10 people felt complete relief from their migraines and headaches after using a capsaicin-based nasal spray ( source 1 ).
  
  All the people questioned are formal …
  
  Despite the tingling, the treatment is well worth it!
  
  2. Increases life expectancy
  
  Eating chili peppers regularly may well help you live longer.
  
  How many chili peppers should you eat to increase your life expectancy?
  
  According to a large study, it is enough to eat 1 red pepper per month, fresh or dried.
  
  Researchers found that those who ate chili peppers monthly over 20 years reduced the risk of death by 13% ( source 2 ).
  
  Some believe this is due to the high nutrient content of chili peppers, and their anti-inflammatory properties.
  
  In another study, researchers also found that eating chili peppers helps fight obesity ( source 3 ).
  
  3. Stop the runny nose
  
  You keep sneezing, and you have a runny or stuffy nose?
  
  This is what doctors call nonallergic rhinitis.
  
  This condition is characterized by a constant runny nose, but it is not due to a cold, allergies, or cigarette smoke.
  
  Again, just a splash of capsaicin spray in your nostrils, and you’re good to go.
  
  According to the researchers, this is sufficient to relieve the symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis ( source 4 ).
  
  Admittedly, in the beginning, it tingles!
  
  In some people, it can even appear to make the situation worse.
  
  But rest assured, in a very short time, capsaicin begins to do its magic.
  
  In a very short time, your nose will stop running. And often the effect lasts for several months.
  
  4. Boosts metabolism
  
  Do you know that hot feeling in your body when you eat a hot pepper?
  
  Well, know that it is more than just a feeling.
  
  This is because the capsaicin in chili peppers increases how quickly the body heats up.
  
  It also stimulates a sensitive neuron, the TRPV1.
  The latter is used to prevent fat storage and also regulates your appetite ( source 5 ).
  
  Therefore, this combined action increases the metabolism of the body, which could also help you lose weight ( source 6 ).
  
  Researchers hope that one day they will be able to use the benefits of chili peppers on the metabolism to regulate weight gain.
  
  5. Benefits of chili peppers for pain
  
  Capsaicin triggers a feeling of heat.
  
  Including at the level of sensory neurons, which allow your body to detect pain.
  
  Except that with capsaicin, these neurons are wrong!
  
  And instead of transmitting the message of pain, they transmit another message to the brain: ” It’s heating up! “. ( source 7 ).
  
  It’s a little subterfuge that has been used for centuries to relieve pain naturally.
  
  6. Benefits of chili peppers for arthritis
  
  Capsaicin is the active ingredient in many warming creams, balms, and patches used for rapid pain relief.
  
  In one study, capsaicin halved the pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia ( source 8 ).
  
  And this is just a few weeks.
  
  But, in other studies, the results are unfortunately less convincing.
  
  For example, researchers believe that capsaicin only works best when combined with a pain-relieving drug.
  
  In addition, capsaicin-based treatments must be renewed regularly.
  
  7. Preserves food longer
  
  Hot peppers have natural antibacterial properties.
  
  Researchers have found that they can kill germs and bacteria.
  
  Including microorganisms that spoil packaged and canned foods ( source 9 ).
  
  So, manufacturers are now investigating the use of chili extracts as an alternative to artificial preservatives.
  
  This would make it possible to have fewer preservatives in the products that we eat daily.
  
  8. Contains lots of vitamins
  
  Hot peppers have many nutritional benefits.
  
  For example, they contain 3 times more vitamin C than oranges.
  
  They are also rich in vitamins A, B, and E.
  
  According to studies, capsaicin has antioxidant properties, to better protect cells.
  
  In addition, they also help reduce inflammation ( source 10).
  
  Side effects of chili peppers
  
  Capsaicin binds to sensory receptors on the tongue.
  
  The brain cools the body by sweating, salivating, and producing mucus.
  
  Sensory receptors in the esophagus trigger a burning sensation in the chest.
  
  Irritated, phrenic nerves can affect the lungs and cause hiccups.
  
  Pain and cramps occur in the stomach.
  
  The speed of bowel movement increases, causing diarrhea.
  
  There is a risk of anal pruritus (or itchy anus).
  What to do when you eat too hot pepper
  
  Eating too hot a pepper can be dangerous!
  
  Especially if you’re not used to it.
  
  When you breathe it in, chili peppers can even cause asthma attacks in some people.
  
  First of all, avoid drinking water!
  
  Instead, drink small sips of milk.
  
  Or, eat ice cream or cottage cheese.
  Why? Because water does not dissolve capsaicin, unlike fat in milk.
  
  If you don’t have milk on hand, all is not lost!
  
  Try to eat bread crumbs or some other starchy food.
  
  If you get hot pepper on your skin or in your eyes, rinse the affected area thoroughly with warm water.
  
  The different varieties of chili
  
  Chili or pepper: know that these plants are the same.
  
  Moreover, our Spanish neighbors call both “pimiento”.
  
  The only thing that sets them apart?
  
  You will surely have guessed it: it is capsaicin!
  
  Peppers contain very little, if any, of them.
  
  Opt for regional varieties. There is of course the famous Espelette pepper.
  
  But there is also the Landes pepper, red and elongated, which surprises with its great sweetness.
  
  If you are sensitive, avoid hot peppers, such as the famous “bird tongue” peppers.
  
  How do you measure the hotness of peppers?
  
  Did you know that there is a scale to measure the hotness of peppers?
  
  It is called the Scoville scale.
  
  This scale measures the level of capsaicin according to the amount of sugar water needed to neutralize the heat.
  
  This scale ranges from 0 to 1,641,183 Scoville units.
  
  For example, a bell pepper has a value from 0 to 100 Scoville units, paprika from 100 to 150.
  
  The best score? This is the famous “Pepper X”.
  
  With 3,180,000 units on the Scoville scale, it is the hottest pepper in the world!
  
  Having trouble with hot peppers?
  
  So a little advice: know that dried peppers are stronger than fresh peppers.
  
  The thinner the stem, the hotter the pepper.
  
  How to add spice to your recipes?
  
  A touch of hot pepper enhances and complements any dish.
  
  Keep some on hand in the freezer, finely chopped or sliced.
  
  So you can easily add color and enhance the flavors of your favorite recipes.
  
  For example, cut fresh chili peppers into pieces to enhance pizzas and pasta dishes.
  
  For a smoother and more fragrant chili, consider removing the seeds.
  
  To vary the taste, you can also grill or roast the peppers.
  
  Always wear rubber gloves when handling hot peppers.
  
  What are the dangers of chili peppers
  
  Eating too much chili can also lead to health problems.
  
  Which ones? Here is the list :
  
  stomach pain,
  
  nausea,
  
  vomiting,
  
  diarrhea,
  
  burning sensations in the intestines.
  
  Some children even ended up in the emergency room after eating too many spicy snacks.
  
  Instead of buying snacks made with chilies, it is better to prepare your recipes.
  
  So, you are in control of the dosage!
  
  For example, you can sprinkle a little Espelette pepper on popcorn or sweet potato fries. Yum!
  
  Conclusion
  
  Capsaicin is the compound in peppers responsible for their pungent flavor.
  
  Studies have shown that this prevents sinus infections.
  
  Capsaicin also has anti-inflammatory properties.
  
  It helps relieve stomach aches and metabolizes fat.
  
  Here is a summary of the powerful benefits of capsaicin :
  
  Pain-relieving effect
  
  Prevents sinusitis
  
  Burns fat and facilitates weight loss
  
  Relieves intestinal diseases
  
  Protects the heart
  
  Reduces the risk of ulcers
  
  Preserves healthy bones
  
  Help to sleep
  
  Reduces inflammation
  
  Can warm the feet

Food

Top 10 Benefits of watermelon and side effects

Published

8 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

Overview
Top 10 Health benefits of watermelon
- 1. Hydrates
- 2. Improves the immune system and prevents cell damage
- 3. Heals wounds wound healing
- 4. Benefits of watermelon for bones
- 5. Benefits of watermelon for cardiovascular health
- 6. Benefits of watermelon for weight loss
- 7. Benefits of watermelon for eyes
- 8. Diuretic effect
- 9. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- 10. Benefits of watermelon for cancer
- Side effects of watermelon
- Discover the top 10 Health benefits of watermelon and side effects.
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  Toggle
  Overview
  
  One of the best fruits to eat in summer is watermelon , which in addition to being very refreshing, contains many health properties. Along with the melon, it belongs to the botanical family Cucurbitaceae and both are very beneficial for the body.
- Although some individuals think that this delicious fruit contains only water and sugar, watermelon is rich in nutrients and provides many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants . This fruit is a very healthy food and has a low amount of calories.
  Watermelons and the summer period go hand in hand. Its refreshing quality and sweet taste help beat the heat, and for those who want to lose weight, this fruit is a very tasty dessert that does not make you feel guilty when you eat it.
  
  Top 10 Health benefits of watermelon
  
  There are different types of watermelon, some larger, others less rounded and others without the stripes that characterize them. Regardless of the type of watermelon consumed, they are all highly healthy.
  
  But … what are the properties of watermelon? In the following lines we present the health benefits of watermelon.
  
  1. Hydrates
  
  Watermelon is associated with summer and it is not surprising, since it is a food with a high water content, 92% of its composition , and contains important electrolytes.
  
  It can be eaten at any time and is an ideal “snack” to take at any time. If we also leave it in the fridge, it will not only be delicious, but it will also be very refreshing. When the summer season approaches, watermelon becomes a very appetizing food.
  
  2. Improves the immune system and prevents cell damage
  
  This fruit is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for our immune system and, therefore, protects our body and helps us fight, for example, colds. It also maintains the redox balance of cells and protects them from reactive oxygen species, which damage our cells and DNA.
  
  3. Heals wounds wound healing
  
  The role of vitamin C in wound healing has also been observed in numerous studies, as it is essential for the formation of new connective tissue .
  
  The enzymes involved in the formation of collagen, that is, the main component of wound healing, is inefficient without vitamin C. Ultimately, watermelon is involved in wound healing.
  
  4. Benefits of watermelon for bones
  
  Watermelon contains lycopene, which is especially important for our bone health .
  
  Dietary lycopene, which is present in some foods such as watermelon or tomatoes, reduces oxidative stress that normally reduces the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, two bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis .
  
  The consumption of lycopene is associated with healthier bones. Watermelon is also rich in potassium, which helps retain calcium in the body, resulting in healthier bones and joints.
  
  5. Benefits of watermelon for cardiovascular health
  
  Consuming watermelon in large quantities, according to a research, positively correlates with the improvement of cardiovascular function , as it increases blood flow through vasodilation.
  
  A study conducted by the American Journal of Hypertension found that watermelon extract supplementation reduces ankle blood pressure, brachial blood pressure, and carotid pressure in obese middle-aged adults with mild hypertension.
  
  6. Benefits of watermelon for weight loss
  
  Watermelon contains citrulline, which helps reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells . Citrulline is an amino acid that is converted to arginine with the help of the kidneys.
  
  When our bodies absorb citrulline, it has the ability to block the activity of TNAP (non-tissue specific alkaline phosphatase), which causes our fat cells to produce less fat tissue, and therefore helps prevent excessive accumulation of body fat .
  
  7. Benefits of watermelon for eyes
  
  This fruit is a great source of beta-carotene (that’s why the reddish color inside it) that is converted into vitamin A.
  
  It helps to produce pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration.
  
  It also prevents night blindness, maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissues and mucous membranes.
  
  8. Diuretic effect
  
  Watermelon is a natural diuretic that helps increase urine flow and protects the kidneys .
  
  It also intervenes in the ammonia removal process from the liver.
  
  Watermelon is a diuretic and natural slimming agent that will help you stay fit and healthy.
  
  9. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
  
  Watermelon is rich in phenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids . The carotenoid lycopene in this fruit is beneficial in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals.
  
  The triterpenoid cucurbitacin E is also present in watermelon, and provides anti-inflammatory support by blocking the activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes that normally produce an inflammatory surge.
  
  Ripe watermelons contain higher amounts of these beneficial phenolic compounds.
  
  10. Benefits of watermelon for cancer
  
  This fruit, as I have discussed previously, is an excellent source of vitamin C, as well as other antioxidants.
  
  That is why it can help fight the formation of free radicals associated with the development of cancer.
  
  Lycopene intake has been positively associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer, according to various investigations.
  
  Side effects of watermelon
  
  Watermelon is a wonderful source of dietary fiber and water. But, if you eat too much watermelon, it can induce bloating, gas, flatulence, diarrhea, and other such stomach problems.
  
  We hope the article on the top 10 Health benefits of watermelon and side effects has been of help.