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Sunday, July 31, 2016

Have Some Watermelon

Have Some Watermelon

It's still really hot and humid outside.  Nothing is more refreshing than a slice of cold watermelon.  Watermelon is 90% water but soaked full of nutrients.  It is natures' "vitamin water", filled with Lycopene, vitamins A, C, B6 , Potassium and Magnesium.  Although is is mostly water and helps you stay hydrated on a hot summer day, it doesn't replace the need for good filtered water.  There are over 300 varieties grown in United States and Mexico, although only 50 being more popular.   It is thought to have originated from Egypt over 5000 years ago and is the most consumed melon in the US. followed by cantaloupe and honey dew.  

Watermelon is  a great source of Lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant which helps prevents strokes, ovarian/prostate cancer and has even reduced tumor growth.  Providing 6.5 mg in less than 1/2 cup serving, even better then raw tomatoes.  Another powerful phytonutrient found in watermelon is citrulline, which is an amino acid that converts to L-arginine. This promotes healthy blood flow, improved cardiovascular health, improved circulation and reduces blood pressure.

Here are some fun facts about watermelon:
*A pre-workout drink of watermelon "juice" helps to prevent muscle soreness, because of the citrulline.
*Watermelon is both fruit and vegetable, the rind is edible(throw the white rind in a blender with a shot of lime juice for a healthy treat. It contains more citrulline then the pink flesh) and black seeds are also edible(they contain iron, zinc, protein and fiber). 
*Seedless watermelons are not GMO, as they're the results of hybridization.
* It also contains cucurbitacin E which reduces the activity of pain and inflammation  caused by the enzyme cyclooxygenase, the same enzyme blocked by NSIAD, like aspirin and ibuprofen.
*"Remember to eat watermelon and fruit alone or your stomach will moan"!...MangoMan

Here's a video on how to shop for the best watermelon from "The Mango Man"
Also a great recipe for "Watermelon Steak"

Have a great week.
Be kind.
Judd 

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