SUMMER FRUIT: THE REFRESHING HEALTH BENEFITS OF MUSKMELON
Muskmelon (Cantaloupe) is a member of the melon species and is one of the popular fruits in the tropical countries, available mostly in the summer season. The cantaloupe derives its name from the Italian papal village of Cantalup, where it was first cultivated around 1700 A.D. The initial instances of its cultivation have been found to date back to, as far back as, circa 2000 BC. Some claimed that the fruit is said to have originated in ancient Persia and Africa.
Muskmelon belongs to the same family as the cucumber, squash, pumpkin and gourd, and like many of its relatives, grows on the ground to a trailing vine. Today, muskmelons are available in a large number of varieties, including skinned varieties like honeydew, and netted cultivars, known as cantaloupes. The fruit has a significantly high nutritional value, resulting in a number of health benefits to its consumers.
Nutritional Value of Muskmelon
Amount of nutrients present in 1 cup of muskmelons
Vitamin A - 516 RE
Vitamin B - 60.18 mg
Vitamin C - 68 mg
Niacin - 0.9 mg
Fat - 0.4 gm
Folic Acid - 27 mcg
Cholesterol - 0 mg
Sodium - 14 mg
Magnesium - 17 mg
Protein - 1.4 gm
Carbohydrate - 13.4 gm
Dietary Fiber - 1.3 gm
Potassium - 494 mg
Calories - 57
Health Benefits of Eating Muskmelons
Muskmelon comprises of a substantial amount of dietary fiber, making it good for those suffering form constipation.
Since the fruit is low in sugar or calories, it serves as a good snack for all those who are trying to lose weight and maintain a healthy body.
The potassium present in muskmelons makes them quite helpful in the lowering of blood pressure.
It is good source of vitamin B6, dietary fiber, folate, and niacin (vitamin B3). The combination of all these B complex vitamins along with the fiber found in muskmelon make it an exceptionally good fruit for supporting energy production through good carbohydrate metabolism and blood sugar stability.
The fruit has been associated with regulating heart beat and, possibly, preventing strokes especially during the heat days in summer.
Researches have suggested that muskmelons might reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and age-related bone loss.
Being rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant, the fruit has been believed to be good for preventing heart diseases, cancer and other chronic ailments. In addition to its antioxidant activity, vitamin C is critical for good immune function. Vitamin C stimulates white cells to fight infection, directly kills many bacteria and viruses, and regenerates Vitamin E after it has been inactivated by disarming free radicals.
Muskmelons have been found to have sedative properties, making them beneficial for the people who are suffering from insomnia.
The fruit has almost zero cholesterol and thus, is safe for the people who suffer from the problem of high blood cholesterol.
Regular consumption of muskmelon juice can help treat lack of appetite, acidity and ulcer and urinary tract infections.
The fruit proves to be a good source of vitamin A and thus, helps maintain healthy skin.
The folic acid present in muskmelons helps create healthy fetuses (in pregnant women) and can even prevent cervical cancer and osteoporosis. It also serves as a mild antidepressant. Cantaloupe folate content is important for the production and maintenance of new cells.
The hot summer days make one feeling exhausted because of the heat but a moderate amount of muskmelon will make you refreshed and energized.
Since it has high water content, the fruit can help reduce the heat in the body and thus, prevent heat-related disorders.
Note: Summer fruits like muskmelon, watermelon, mango and pineapple are juicy and refreshing during the heat of the summer days. Always eat your season fruits!
Reference:
http://health.learninginfo.org/m.htm
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage
http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/benefits-of-muskmelon
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