Watermelon

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Citrullus_lanatus5SHSU


Watermelon
NameWatermelon
USDA_ID102261
Food_groupFruits and vegetables,Fruits
Keto_friendlinessLow carb
Calories33
Fat0.3
Protein0.4
Net carbohydrates6.9
Sugars6.9
Saturated fats0.1
Serving descriptionWatermelon



Introduction[edit | edit source]

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a sweet and refreshing fruit that is a popular summer treat around the world. It is believed to have originated in Southern Africa, but is now cultivated in many countries, including the United States, China, and Turkey.

Description[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is a large, oblong or round fruit with a thick green rind and juicy, sweet red flesh. The flesh is typically dotted with small, black seeds, although seedless varieties are also available.

Watermelon is a member of the cucurbit family, which also includes other popular fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash.

Nutritional value[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit that is high in vitamins C and A. It also contains a significant amount of potassium, which is important for maintaining a healthy heart and blood pressure.

Watermelon is also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.

Cultivation and harvesting[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is typically grown in warm, sunny climates, and requires a long growing season of between 70 and 90 days. The fruit is typically harvested when the rind is fully mature and the flesh is ripe and juicy.

Watermelon is often grown on trellises or other support structures to keep the fruit off the ground and prevent it from rotting. Some varieties of watermelon can weigh up to 80 pounds (36 kilograms) when fully grown.

Culinary uses[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is typically eaten raw, either on its own or in salads and fruit bowls. It is also used to make juices, smoothies, and other beverages.

In some countries, watermelon is also used as a cooking ingredient. In China, for example, watermelon is often stir-fried or used in soups, while in Africa, the rind of the fruit is used to make pickles and preserves.

Cultural significance[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is a popular summer fruit around the world, and is often associated with picnics, barbecues, and other outdoor events. In the United States, watermelon is a traditional part of Fourth of July celebrations, and is often used in games and contests.

In some cultures, watermelon is also considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In Japan, for example, watermelon is often given as a gift during the summer months, and is considered a sign of respect and friendship.


Varieties[edit | edit source]

There are many different varieties of watermelon, ranging in size, shape, and color. Some popular varieties include:

Crimson Sweet: A popular variety with deep red flesh and a sweet flavor. Sugar Baby: A small, round watermelon with dark green skin and sweet, juicy flesh. Yellow Crimson: A variety with yellow flesh and a sweet, tropical flavor. Charleston Gray: A large, oblong watermelon with sweet, pink flesh and a tough rind. Seedless watermelons have become increasingly popular in recent years, and are now widely available in supermarkets and farmers markets.

Health benefits[edit | edit source]

In addition to being low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, watermelon has several other health benefits. It is a good source of hydration, as it is made up of about 92% water. This makes it a great choice for staying hydrated during hot weather or after exercise.

Watermelon also contains citrulline, an amino acid that has been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Additionally, some studies have suggested that watermelon may have anti-inflammatory properties and could help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Harvesting and storage[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is typically harvested in the late summer or early fall, when the fruit is fully ripe and ready to eat. When selecting a watermelon, look for a firm, symmetrical fruit with a dull rind (a shiny rind can indicate that the fruit is underripe).

Once harvested, watermelons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Cut watermelon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days.

Culinary uses[edit | edit source]

Watermelon is a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Some popular uses include:

Salads: Watermelon adds a sweet and refreshing touch to summer salads, especially when paired with feta cheese, mint, and other herbs. Beverages: Watermelon is a great base for refreshing summer drinks, such as agua fresca and smoothies. Grilling: Grilled watermelon can be a delicious and unexpected addition to summer barbecues and cookouts.



Watermelon is a keto friendly food item popular in United Kingdom
Food ingredients:Watermelon has fat in low quantity, saturated fat in low quantity, sugars in moderate quantity, salt in low quantity
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Images curtesy of OpenFoodFacts.org, CC By SA.

Keto-meter rating
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Top 3 questions (FAQs)[edit source]

Keto Friendliness of Watermelon
Question Answer
Can you eat Watermelon on a keto diet? No. Best to limit or consume occasionally.
Is Watermelon suitable for a low carb diet? Yes.
Note: Due to its moderate net carbs, consider avoiding or limiting Watermelon on a keto diet.


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Keto recipes[edit source]

Page Ingredients Calorie Fat Protein Carbohydrate Net carbs
"melanie's" chicken chili (recipe) Chicken breasts Corn Black beans Pinto beans Tomatoes Red onion Green bell pepper Garlic cloves Cornmeal Monterey jack cheese Olive oil Adobo sauce Chili powder Cayenne powder Cumin Mexican oregano Salt Pepper 126.4 4.6 9.5 12.2 9.6
"melanie's" chicken chili (recipe) Chicken breasts Corn Black beans Pinto beans Tomatoes Red onion Green bell pepper Garlic cloves Cornmeal Monterey jack cheese Olive oil Adobo sauce Chili powder Cayenne powder Cumin Mexican oregano Salt Pepper 126.4 4.6 9.5 12.2 9.6
Spinach mozarella egg bake (recipe) Cooking spray Tomatoes Onion Spinach Eggs Milk Italian seasoning 200.0 3.5 16.0 10.0 7.5
Spinach mozarella egg bake (recipe) Cooking spray Tomatoes Onion Spinach Eggs Milk Italian seasoning 200.0 3.5 16.0 10.0 7.5



Watermelon external links[edit source]



Watermelon

Nutritional quality scores
Nutri-score-A.svg

The Nutri-Score is a five-color nutrition label and nutritional rating system with the overall nutritional value of food products. It assigns products a rating letter from A (best) to E (worst), with associated colors from green to red.

  • A = Green color, and is considered best
  • E = Red color, and is considered worst

Food processing score Watermelon[edit source]

Nova food processing score (1 = Minimally or unprocessed foods, 4 = Highly processed foods)

  • NOVA food group not available.

Note:Nutrition info is for 100g (or percent) unless otherwise noted.
Image(s) courtesy of OpenFoodFacts.org, licensed under CC by SA.


References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

National Watermelon Promotion Board Health benefits of watermelon Watermelon nutrition information

National Watermelon Promotion Board

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