Melon: Summer's underrated nutritional powerhouse
Melon may be less popular than watermelon, but is no less healthy and no less delicious. Here are all the benefits of the sweet summer fruit.
With the height of summer comes a snack as old and revered as humanity itself: Refreshing and delicious fruit. While not as ubiquitous as apples or oranges, melon is one of the most popular fruits in the world. Known for its delicious flavor, the refreshing summer fruit also offers many health benefits.
Melons belong to the gourd family – the same family that also includes cucumber, zucchini, watermelon, and pumpkin. Found all over the world in many varieties – orange or green, round or elongated – melons present different and unique characteristics.
Various types of melon are found even across the tiny country of Israel, providing people the ability to discover their favorite varieties and experiment as much as possible.
Melons are rich in water, contain few calories (about 35 kcal per 100 grams), are rich in vitamins A, C, folic acid, and vitamins from the B group. They are also low in sodium and fats while rich in potassium and phosphorus. Furthermore, melons contain healthy amounts of magnesium and calcium.
Because they are rich in electrolytes, melons are suitable to help maintain a proper fluid balance and can be a good solution to prevent dehydration during the long summer days spent outside the house in the sea or the pool.
Rich in vitamins
Melons are rich in vitamin C and thus help strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C also supports the production of collagen, which is essential for maintaining the skin and hair. Additionally, melons are rich in vitamin A – which contributes to eye health – and vitamin B, which contributes to healthy brain function.
Good source of dietary fiber
Regular consumption of melon can help prevent constipation. In addition, the quantity of dietary fiber present in melons makes it a filling snack.
Contains antioxidants
Melons contain antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Helps maintain weight
Replacing high-calorie snacks with healthy fruits like melons can help manage weight and promote a healthy lifestyle.
The author, Orly Vasid Mizrahi, is a clinical dietitian at the Women's Health Institute of the Maccabi Health Services in Sharon District.
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