Watermelon is sweet, juicy, and refreshing. And while it’s the perfect summer fruit, it’s also great year round.
“And like its name suggests, watermelon is about 92% water, so it’s a great way to stay hydrated in addition to the fluids that we drink,” said Registered Dietician Nutritionist Melissa Ann Prest, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Watermelon is also packed with nutrients.
“In a little cup, we can get about 15% of our daily vitamin C, and about 3% of our potassium needs,”
Prest said. “Potassium is really important for blood pressure and for electrolyte balance after we’ve been working out or it’s hot outside and we want to stay hydrated.”
And get this: Watermelon also has the most lycopene, an antioxidant, of any fruit.
“It helps your body combat any cellular damage that can cause an increase in chronic inflammation,” Prest explained. “Chronic inflammation is bad because it can lead to chronic health conditions or make chronic health conditions worse, like heart disease, cancer, and macular degeneration.”
More Info: Is Watermelon Good For You?
NOTE: August is Kids Eat Right Month.