What Is the Nutritional Value of Watermelon?

Watermelon is a fruit in the melon family that can be eaten or made into drinks and smoothies. There are more than 1,200 varieties of watermelon with a large range of sizes. The flesh of a watermelon is usually red, but can also be orange, yellow or white.

Nutrition

Two cups of watermelon contain 46 calories, less than 1/4 gram of fat, 11.6 grams of carbohydrates, and is a good source of vitamins A and C.

Heart Benefits

Watermelon is naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy food. It also contains amino acids that help maintain arteries and blood flow through the heart.

Thirst Quencher

Watermelon contains about 92 percent water, making it a good thirst quencher and diuretic.

Watermelon as a Vegetable

The rind of a watermelon can be eaten as a vegetable in a stir-fry, a stew and pickled.

Prevention of Prostate Cancer

Some people believe a combination of watermelon and green tea reduce a man's risk of developing prostate cancer.

Relieve Muscle Cramps

The potassium found in watermelon can help to prevent muscle cramps. Two cups of watermelon provide 10 percent of the daily recommended amount of potassium.

Resources

• Watermelon