Mark Twain said this about watermelon: “It is chief of this world’s luxuries…..When one has tasted it, he knows what angels eat.” He was right. Children eat a lot of watermelon. Adults, not so much.
Some foods are fun to eat. They’re even better when they’re good for your brain. Food has the power to heal your brain, and the chemical components in what you eat have powerful effects on the way your mind works. That’s why my favorite summer brain food treat is watermelon.
Watermelon Nutrition Facts
Watermelon fruit and watermelon seeds have a virtual warehouse of nutrients essential for a healthy brain and body. Low in calories and high in fibre, watermelon has a number of health benefits, particularly for older adults.
Watermelon has the highest concentration of lycopene (a powerful antioxidant) of any fresh fruit or vegetable. It helps quench the free radicals that contribute to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer and arthritis. Not only that, it’s a certified heart-healthy food by the American Heart Association. And, what’s good for your heart is good for your brain.
It’s also high in citrulline, an amino acid used by the body to make arginine, which helps maintain your arteries, blood flow and cardiovascular function. Watermelon seeds are also a source of potassium, which helps muscle and nerve function. They’re also rich in protein and contain vitamin B6 and B1, which, when combined, boost energy.
Watermelon is great in salads and smoothies, and is a nutritious snack. Or, purée watermelon, cantaloupe and kiwi together. Swirl in a little plain yogurt and serve as refreshing cold soup. Remember, what you eat literally becomes you and you have a choice in what you are made of.
