Watermelons are some of the prettiest fruits around, with their luminant green outer skin encasing the red refreshing flesh and signature black seeds, a slice of watermelon is the perfect refreshment.
The reason for its red colour is unique, it is called Lycopene which is also found in tomatoes of course.
Lycopene is a powerful carotenoid antioxidant which although most associate with tomatoes is more highly concentrated in watermelon.
Lycopene can help with asthma and other cardiovascular symptoms.
The surprising thing about watermelon is that it is both a fruit and a vegetable. Yes watermelons are related to cucumbers and squash, the clue being that you can eat the fruit, seeds and even the flesh which most of us do not.
The rind contains a lot of amino acid so next time you have a watermelon put the rind in a blender with some lime juice for a refreshing drink!
Watermelon is great in fruit shakes because of its high water content, a really good ingredient for your shake after a heavy night's partying as it will rehydrate you and help get rid of that hangover.
Watermelons are in fact 91% water!
The black seeds contain iron, zinc, protein and fiber so don’t be scared if you swallow them, we would in fact suggest you chew them up with the fruit.
Other nutrients from the watermelon are -
Vitamin C
Vitamin B6
Potassium
Vitamin A
Magnesium
Watermelon in Thai language is ‘taeng mo’ and they are grown all year round because of the good climate. You can find watermelons at many local fruit and veg shops and also in the larger supermarkets.
On a non healthy side of things there is a great trick you can do with a watermelon if you’re having a bbq or party or just want to take a nice cocktail to the beach with friends…
Get yourself a bottle of vodka or your preferred spirit then make some large holes in the watermelon which will fit a funnel (make sure the holes go quite far in).
Position the funnel into the hole then pour in the spirit, this may take a while but over time the melon will absorb the alcohol.
Once finished, pop the melon in the fridge then when you’re ready you can slice it up and enjoy some nice alcoholic watermelon with your friends!
You may need a normal naked watermelon the next day though!
Enjoy!
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