It’s heating up here in Southern California and it is officially summer! When I think of summer, I think of watermelon… one of nature’s most refreshing (and hydrating!) fruits.
As the name suggests, watermelon is extremely high in water content (about 92 %). Watermelon is also a great source of lycopene, which acts as an antioxidant and protects against certain cancers. Some preliminary research suggests foods high in lycopene have a “sunscreen effect”, meaning that they have the ability to improve skin’s natural SPF. So when we eat lycopene-rich foods, we could be less likely to burn. (But eating watermelon isn’t a free ticket to skip the sunscreen, so please, still slap on the SPF). Thank goodness watermelon is in-season during the summer, when we spend more time outside soaking up the rays.
Watermelon is also a low-calorie fruit that helps to banish bloat, so it makes a great poolside snack to keep you feeling your best. Pack it for picnics to help keep puffiness from salty foods (hotdogs, potato salads, chips) at bay. As if there weren’t enough reasons to love watermelon, it can also aid in the production of nitric oxide, a natural compound in the body that helps to relax muscles and improve blood flow. Watermelon is a perfect snack to pair with your workouts! Think better performance and quicker recovery!
With all of it’s hydration and antioxidant power, watermelon is just as beautifying for the outside as it is for the inside. Your glowing skin will thank you! Now is the perfect time to take advantage of the peak watermelon abundance!
You might think of watermelon as a sweet treat, but don’t be fooled. Watermelon pairs perfectly with savory ingredients, too. Switch up your plain ole watermelon game with this recipe. It’s quick, easy, and a real crowd-pleaser. It’s a little zesty, a little spicy, and a little sweet, just like those last days of summer.
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Pssst: Remember not to let any part of the watermelon go to waste! You can stop throwing away the watermelon rind and use it to make watermelon rind pickles.
And if you are looking for more delicious recipes that are easy and diabetes-friendly, be sure to check out my FREE 7 day diabetes meal plan below.
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