Surprising Health Benefits of Jackfruit

Jackfruit looks very similar to durian but it certainly doesn’t smell and taste like the latter. It tastes really sweet when ripe. Many people are quick to say that it’s like eating something that equally boasts of the tropical and sunshiny flavors of banana and pineapple. When unripe, jackfruit makes for an excellent meat substitute as it kind of tastes like chicken.
It’s true that a jackfruit is quite challenging to carry and peel. However, a special place in your heart will surely be reserved for this tropical gem once you’re through reading about its various surprising health benefits.

•  Jackfruit contains potassium, a mineral needed by the circulatory system. Potassium helps in the maintenance of ideal blood pressure. It also helps reduce your risk of stroke.

•  Jackfruit energizes you because it contains carbohydrates and sugar. Fret not because the kinds this super fruit contains are good for you as they are released in the bloodstream at a steady pace, keeping blood glucose spikes at bay.

•  Vitamin C in jackfruit is essential for a stronger immune system. The nutrient helps protect your body from microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. What’s more, vitamin C is necessary for the health of your skin, teeth, cartilage and bones. Being an antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect your cells from being damaged by those harmful free radicals.

• Aside from vitamin C, jackfruit also contains vitamin A necessary for sharper vision and healthy eyes.

• Plant-based pigments in the bright yellow flesh of jackfruit have superb anti-cancer properties. Acting as antioxidants, they eliminate excess free radicals that may cause healthy cells to mutate and cause cancer.

• With so many antioxidants around, the consumption of jackfruit helps in slowing down the aging process. Eating the tropical fruit is a great way to maintain your youthful appeal and keep those premature signs of skin aging at bay.

• Both calcium and magnesium jackfruit contains are vital for the health of your teeth and bones.

• Iron in jackfruit is necessary for the production of red blood cells, making this fruit a tasty and effective anemia-buster.

•  Jackfruit contains copper, a mineral that is crucial for the thyroid gland as it helps in the normal production of hormones. Copper also helps ward off depression, anxiety and panic attack.

• Dietary fiber in jackfruit promotes regular bowel movement, saving you from ending up constipated. It’s also a good idea to eat this fruit if you are suffering from certain digestive disorders such as acid reflux and ulcer.

Seeds Of Watermelon Hide A Bunch Of Secrets For Our Health

Most of you are throwing watermelon’s seeds while eating a watermelon. If you eat them, you probably don’t know that they benefit your digestion, but the digestive tract ejects them untouched. Therefore their usefulness is almost not used.

If you like to use the benefits of the seeds, you must to boil, crush or bake them to get to the content. The fibers included in the seeds are vital for normal functioning of the digestive tract. They will help against intestinal parasites, also for patients that are suffering from jaundice, guided diseases and inflammatory issues.

The citrulline substance included in the seeds affects as an antioxidant, which helps to augment blood vessels, arteriosclerosis, with high blood pressure and angina pectoris. According to the American scientists from the early 20th century, the watermelon’s seeds are very helpful for the kidney and the urinary tract. They said that you can use a tea from the fresh seeds, which is helpful diuretic and is good for cleansing stones and sand from the kidneys and urinary tract.

It is considered that the seeds are boosting the heart and the body’s muscle structure. Watermelon’s seeds are useful for memory and concentration, and the blaze and tightness of the skin. You can use them in the form or tea or snacks. Tea seeds are very efficient in treating diabetes type 2 and are highly recommended for diabetics. The men can use the seeds to bolster their libido and potency.

Magnesium, vitamins A, B, C, iron, antioxidants, manganese, calcium, polyunsaturated and mono saturated fats, are all included in the watermelon’s seeds.

Preparation of the tea:

Take 4 tablespoons of fresh and crumbled watermelon seeds. Boil them in 2 liters of water for 15 minutes. You should consume this amount of tea for two days and pause in the third day. Continue this process for several weeks.

Top 9 Benefits of Dates

Top 9 Benefits of Dates

Dates are regular dry fruits which have a sweet taste and a sticky or greasy texture. It is a rich source of Vitamins and minerals and should be consumed on a frequent basis. Dates have often been used to prepare dressings, salads and different kinds of dishes and are a popular fruit in the Middle East. In fact, during the holy month of Ramzan, Muslims stress on eating a lot of dates. This one is great for the health as it increases blood circulation and restores your health. In order to learn more about dates, you may refer to this article that has been written primarily for your understanding and benefit.

Instant Energy:

The first and most important benefit that you will derive from the date fruit is instant energy. Since they are full of glucose, you will feel great bursts of energy throughout the day. You will be able to work for longer periods of time without any stress. Having just a handful of dates every day shall replenish all the sugar in your body within a couple of minutes. This is why doctors have suggested the use of dates for pregnant women and growing children who always need energy to carry on with their daily activities.

Source of Proteins:

As we all know, our body needs a good amount of protein to function properly and in order to do so, we must use the goodness of healthy and tasty fruits which is available to us in abundance. One such fruit that is full of protein is dates. It is very much essential for the normal functioning of the body and builds blocks of muscles for us. So if you want an attractive and healthy shape, use some dates as they are a fine idea.

Provides Relief to Constipation:

Dates also provide relief to those who suffer with constipation. It can be used as a laxative. All you need to do for this is combine some dates in a bowl full of healthy salad and have it at least two times a day. You can also pop into your mouth directly. Take this salad every day and you will definitely get some good results. Dates can kill the bacteria in your system that cause constipation and restore good health. If it still doesn’t help, you may consult your doctor or physician for further advice.

Blood Circulation and Skin:

Dates are great when it comes to improving your skin complexion. It is indeed the best when it comes to cleansing and taking care of your entire system. It acts as an antioxidant and allows your body to function normally. Proper blood circulation will allow your skin to glow and the texture of your hair to become thick, shiny and beautiful only within some time. So if you want to look beautiful, we suggest you make use of some amazing and beneficial dates. We guarantee you will not regret.

Sexual Related Problems:

In order to deal with sexual related problems, you should use dates. According to several studies, if you have sexual problems or you even suffer with impotency, you should never hesitate to use dates. They will spice up your sex life and act as an aphrodisiac. This is truly the best and has been used by so many people across the world. In fact, doctors have also advised us to have some dates on a regular basis. You will surely feel a difference soon.

Makes your Hair smooth:

Another great thing that dates can do for you is softening your hair. If you think your hair is too rough or dry, all you will need is some dates to solve this problem. For this purpose, you could simply use some date oil. They will give you hair all the nutrition it needs. Simply take some date oil and massage it all over the hair very gently. Massage for about five minutes and then let it stay that way for about half n hour and then you can wash it off with cold water. You should also shampoo for better results.

Reduces Split Ends and Hair Breakage:

A lot of women have complained that their hair breaks quite often. This is because of bad hair routine, bad eating habits and bad weather. A quick and easy solution to this problem is date fruits. It has essential nutrients such as vitamin A that is necessary for beautiful hair. It will control hair damage and split ends and also smoothen out the cuticles. For best results, use the combination of olive oil and jojoba oil along with date oil.

Makes Hair Dark and Shiny:

An amazing and great way to get you dark, thick, attractive and shiny hair is by using some date oil. Due to chemical treatment and bad weather, our hair tends to get rough and damaged. It increases shine to your hair from your root to the tip and also gives it a very silky and smooth surface. For best results, all you need to do is mix some quantity of date oil with your favorite mousse or serum and apply all over your hair. After you wash your hair, you will notice your locks have become much more shiny and beautiful.

Strengthens Your Hair:

All of us are tired of incessant hair fall aren’t we? This tends to spoil our and makes us look significantly unattractive. A smart and easy way to strengthen your hair and give it that beautiful and natural appearance, we would suggest to you to make use of date oil. This will strengthen your hair follicles and smoothen your tresses only within a week. Now every time you brush your hair, you don’t have to worry about your hair fall. This is because of the date oil extracted from the tasty and edible dates.

Top 9 Health Benefits of Litchi Fruit

The delicious and juicy litchi fruits are probably some of the good things about summer. They are tropical fruits that have grown in countries like China and Taiwan and South East Asia. They are seasonal fruits and are generally oval in shape. The surface is red in colour and generally hard. But the insides are soft and sweet. It also has a seed inside it which is hard as well. Litchis have often been used to prepare salads and litchi juice. Some have even gone to the extent of making litchi ice creams. A basic idea about litchis and its top benefits have been enlisted in this article for your understanding.

Strengthening Your Bones:

The final and most interesting benefits you will derive from litchi are the strengthening of bones. Since they are full of Vitamins and minerals you can expect your body to become stronger than before only within a couple of months. The blood clotting process shall be improves and you shall be stronger and fitter than ever. This is one of the top reasons why several doctors and experts have advised us, especially children and old people to have okra on a daily basis.

Protection against Cancer:

Speaking of protection against deadly and hazardous diseases such as cancer, you can always stop them before they develop in your body. But how will you do this? This can be done with the help of the simple and amazing litchi fruits. They will reduce the production of cancer producing cells and keep you far away from such dreadful conditions. It has the ability to reduce the proliferation of cells that cause cancer and protect you from breast cancer.

Great for Weight Loss and Obesity:

These days obesity is on an increase, primarily because unhealthy items are being sold largely as compared to healthy ones. The oils in which most of the items are cooked tend to be very cheap in quality. This turns out to be very bad for the health and therefore leads to obesity. A simple and smart way to shed some weight is by incorporating some sweet litchis in your diet. One such vegetable that makes your task easier are lady’s finger. They are low in calories and great for the health. Either you have it raw or cooked, with litchis you can bid farewell to obesity forever.

Digestion:

People who have often complained about their digestive system often suffer with constipation, stomach infection and vomiting. These common problems make your body weak and cause enough discomfort. It also keeps you miles away from living a life that is fit and healthy. One such fruit that will improve your digestive system significantly are litchi fruits. They free from digestive tract from any intestinal worms and other toxic compounds which basically clean your colon and ensure you good health.

Lovely Skin:

One of the finest fruits that you can have these days is litchi fruits. They are indeed great for your face and skin. They will improve the texture and color of your face and even the tone as well. If you have damaged or dry skin, you should consider this fruit as this will hydrate you and make your facial skin soft, smooth and supple. The best way to have them is in a diet or even some cold and tasty litchi juice. We assure you that you won’t be depressed with the results.

Anti-ageing Benefits:

Another cool benefit you can derive from litchis this year is that it will significantly reduce signs of ageing such as wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots and wrinkles. All you should do is mix some litchi juice with lime juice and apply this all over your face. Keep this for about 20 minutes and wash off with cold water. Do this for a couple of benefits and you will surely derive great results. Your skin will be younger, radiant and much more beautiful than before.

Gives you good hair:

Good hair is a symbol of confidence and beauty. But keeping it under constant exposure of the sun or using fancy hair products all the time will make it dull, brittle and frizzy. Unhealthy hair can cause great damage and loss. If your hair keeps falling and you don’t do anything to take care of it, you might actually become bald. So in order to have good and healthy hair, you should use the goodness of litchi. All you must do is drink a lot of litchi juice or even apply and massage litchi juice on your hair. Keep it for a while and then shampoo your hair as usual. We assure you that the results will surprise you.

Acne:

Another awesome benefit you may reap from litchis is freedom from acne. Breakouts, pimples and acne usually occur among those who have bad skin routine.  Even those who have oily skin tend to face the same kind of problem. An effective way to fight this problem is by having some litchis. All you need to do for this purpose apply litchi juice on your face. You can also take the seeds of this fruit, crush it in a blender and add it to some milk and yogurt. Apply it all over your face, let it stay for 20 minutes and cold water to wash it off. You will see results only within a week.

Builds Your Immunity:

In order to build your immune system and make it strong, have some litchis. They are the best and very much natural. You will be far away from dangerous diseases and conditions and protect yourself in many ways. In order to fight from serious infections, make good use of litchis. We can assure you that you are going to benefit out of it. There is no way you are going to be disappointed.

Top 9 Health Benefits of Guava

Guavas are a pretty common type of fruit that has been often been neglected because of the hard skin and seeds that it contains. But this is what we can also call a super food. Why? Because this is full of health and nutrition and are so much better than all those calorie filled desserts. They are sweet in taste and can be eaten by slicing. In order to learn more about guava, the first thing you have to do is take a bite of it. The next thing you should do is read up this article that contains all the details and benefits that these lovely and tasty fruits can provide you with. So let’s go!

Improves Your Digestive System:

A great way to improve your digestive system is by incorporating some guavas to your diet. They will cleanse your system entirely and fight all bacteria and germs. Not only will you be able to excrete and urinate properly but also prevent all kinds of stomach infection, indigestion and constipation. With guavas, you can expect timely bowel movement and the proper regulation of your health. Therefore if you want a good digestive system, have guavas.

Rejuvenates Your Skin:

Your skin is the most important segment of your body. Your whole appearance depends on it. Therefore, you have to take good care of your skin so that can always look bright, young and beautiful. A great way to solve rejuvenates the tone of your skin and improves its texture and color is by having some Guavas. You can drink it down in the form of juice or simply the juice extracted from it a skin toner. Keep it for twenty minutes and wash off with cold water. This will exfoliate your skin, remove dead cells and make you look amazing.

Helps You Lose Weight:

Guavas are healthy and tasty fruits which are very low in calories. They can be eaten in unlimited quantities all throughout the day and you will still not gain weight. This is because of the high water content. They will not only keep you away from over indulging or eating in-between meals but also let you stay full for longer periods of time. In this way, you will be able to lose a lot of weight and burn body fat. This is one of the top reasons why most experts suggest all diet freaks to have guavas.

Best for Diabetes:

A great way to fight diabetes is by adding some guava to your diet. They will protect your health from this disease in several ways. Not just that, if you have diabetes, you can still have some of these guavas in order to improve your health. By the end of the month, you will definitely see a lot of changes in your body and health with the help of this amazing fruit. You can simply eat it as a fruit, have it as juice or even add it to your salad. Either way you are going to benefit immensely and see significant improvement.

Protection from Anti-Ageing:

In order to protect yourself from fine lines of ageing, wrinkles and dark spots, we would suggest you some guavas. They are amazing fruits that will protect your skin from the harshest rays of the sun and allow your skin to be firm, tight and healthy all throughout the year. If you are in your early thirties, you must be aware of fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. In order to protect yourself from such problems, consider guavas as your only help.

Use It for Salads:

Guava can be used for making healthy salads. Whether you are at a wedding party or are simply having a salad at home, you can easily use this vegetable as a dressing. They are low in calories and full of health and nutrition. Every time you are thinking of preparing a salad, simply take add slices of guava to your apples, banana and pineapple. Another way of eating it can be by cutting the guava into four pieces, adding salt and pepper to it. It will taste really good.

Promotes Hair Growth:

A great way to support and promote hair growth and strengthen it is by using mulberries. They are not just excellent for the health and skin but also for the hair. If you look up the internet, you will find several homemade remedies for longer, thicker and stronger hair. This fruit contains all the nutrition you need in order to make your hair look like a million bucks and also maintain its moisturization. It will strengthen your hair from the root to the tips and you will be able to maintain your hair well. They are organic and one of the best solutions to hair problem.

Regulates Your Blood Pressure:

The juicy and tasty guava fruit is also something you could use in order to regulate your blood pressure. They contain high levels of vitamins and minerals which is so important for regulation of your blood pressure. You will protect your heart against strokes, heart attacks and other life threatening diseases. Not only that, the potassium contained in this guava shall ever allow your blood pressure level to become too high. This is one of the most important reasons why fruits such as guavas have been recommended for blood pressure patients.

Keeps You Away From Diseases:

The best benefit you can derive from guavas is that they will keep you miles away from dangerous diseases. If you ever speak to your doctor or nutritionist, they will always tell you to incorporate more of citrus fruits in your diet because they are going to control the symptoms and chances of several diseases. This is specifically relevant to people those who could be prone to cancer. Guavas are the best in protecting your body.

10 Benefits of Carrots: The Crunchy Powerfood

Forget about vitamin A pills. With this orange crunchy powerfood, you get vitamin A and a host of other powerful health benefits including beautiful skin, cancer prevention, and anti-aging. Read how to get maximum benefits from this amazing vegetable.

Benefits of Carrots

1.  Improves vision

Western culture’s  understanding of carrots being “good for the eyes” is one of the few we got right. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision.

Beta-carotene has also been shown to protect against macular degeneration and senile cataracts. A study found that people who eat the most beta-carotene had 40 percent lower risk of macular degeneration than those who consumed little.

2.  Helps prevent cancer

Studies have shown carrots reduce the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. Researchers have just discovered falcarinol and falcarindiol which they feel cause the anticancer properties.

Falcarinol is a natural pesticide produced by the carrot that protects its roots from fungal diseases. Carrots are one of the only common sources of this compound. A study showed 1/3 lower cancer risk by carrot-eating mice.

3.  Slows down aging 

The high level of beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant to cell damage done to the body through regular metabolism.  It help slows down the aging of cells.

4.  Promotes healthier skin 

Vitamin A and antioxidants protects the skin from sun damage. Deficiencies of vitamin A cause dryness to the skin, hair and nails. Vitamin A prevents premature wrinkling, acne, dry skin, pigmentation, blemishes, and uneven skin tone.

5.  Helps prevent infection 

Carrots are known by herbalists to prevent infection. They can be used on cuts – shredded raw or boiled and mashed.

6.  Promotes healthier skin (from the outside) 

Carrots are used as an inexpensive and very convenient facial mask.  Just mix grated carrot with a bit of honey. See the full recipe here: carrot face mask.

7.  Prevents heart disease

Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.  Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein.

The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots bind with bile acids.

8.  Cleanses the body 

Vitamin A assists the liver in flushing out the toxins from the body. It reduces the bile and fat in the liver. The fibers present in carrots help clean out the colon and hasten waste movement.

9.  Protects teeth and gums

It’s all in the crunch! Carrots clean your teeth and mouth. They scrape off plaque and food particles just like toothbrushes or toothpaste.  Carrots stimulate gums and  trigger a lot of saliva, which being alkaline, balances out the acid-forming, cavity-forming bacteria.  The minerals in carrots prevent tooth damage.

10.  Prevents stroke

From all the above benefits it is no surprise that in a Harvard University study, people who ate more than six carrots a week are less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month or less.

10 health benefits of cucumbers

Cucumbers are the fourth most cultivated vegetable in the world and known to be one of the best foods for your body's overall health, often referred to as a superfood. Cucumbers are often sprayed with pesticides so it is important to buy organic or even better, grow them yourself.

Here are 10 Benefits of cucumbers:

1.Quick pick me-up -

 Cucumbers are a good source of B vitamins. Put down your sodas and coffee and eat a cucumber slice.

2. Rehydrates body and replenishes daily vitamins - 

Cucumbers are 95 percent water, keeping the body hydrated while helping the body eliminate toxins. Cucumbers have most of the vitamins the body needs in a single day. Don't forget to leave the skin on because the skin contains a good amount of vitamin C, about 10 percent of the daily-recommended allowance.

3. Skin and hair care -

 If you don't like to eat the skin, it can be used for skin irritations and sunburns as aloe would be used. Place a slice over puffy eyes and its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness. The silicon and sulfur in cucumbers help to stimulate hair growth.

4. Fight cancers - 

Cucumber are known to contain lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol. These three lignans have a strong history of research in connection with reduced risk of several cancer types, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and prostate cancer.

5. Home care - 

Eliminates a foggy mirror. Before taking a shower, rub a cucumber slice along a mirror and it will eliminate the mirror fogging up. Instead of WD40, take a cucumber slice and rub it along a squeaky hinge and your door will stop squeaking.

6. Relieves bad breath - 

Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

7. Hangover cure - 

To avoid a morning hangover or headache; eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish many essential nutrients, reducing the intensity of both hangover and headache.

8. Aids in weight loss and digestion - 

Due to its low calorie and high water content, cucumber is an ideal diet for people who are looking for weight loss. The high water content and dietary fiber in cucumbers are very effective in ridding the body of toxins from the digestive system, aiding digestion. Daily consumption of cucumbers can be regarded as a remedy for chronic constipation.

9. Cures diabetes, reduces cholesterol and controls blood pressure - 

Cucumber juice contains a hormone which is needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin which has been found to be beneficial to diabetic patients. Researchers found that a compound called sterols in cucumbers may help reduce cholesterol levels. Cucumbers contain a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber. These work effectively for regulating blood pressure. This makes cucumbers good for treating both low blood pressure and high blood pressure.

10. Promotes joint health, relieves gout and arthritis pain -

Cucumber is an excellent source of silica, which is known to help promotes joint health by strengthening the connective tissues. They are also rich in vitamin A, B1, B6, C & D, Folate, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. When mixed with carrot juice, they can relieve gout and arthritis pain by lowering the uric acid levels

11 health benefits of papayas

Christopher Columbus, an Italian voyager once referred to papayas as the fruit of the angels. The fruit which is extremely rich in Vitamin C has a wide range of health benefits making it a great fruit option to include in your diet. Here are some of the top health benefits of papaya.

1. Lowers cholesterol

Papaya is rich in fibre, Vitamin C and antioxidants which prevent cholesterol build up in your arteries. Too much cholesterol build-up can lead to several heart diseases including heart attack and hypertension.

2. Helps in weight loss

Those looking to lose weight must include papaya in their diet as it is very low in calories. The fibre content in papaya leaves you feeling full and also clears your bowel movement making your weight loss regime easier.

3. Boosts your immunity

Your immunity system acts as a shield against various infections that can make you really sick. A single papaya contains more than 200% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, making it great for your immunity.

4. Good for diabetics

Papaya is an excellent food option for diabetics as it has a low-sugar content even though it is sweet to taste. Also, people who don’t have diabetes can eat papaya to prevent it from happening.

5. Great for your eyes

Papaya is rich in Vitamin A which helps protect your vision from degenerating. Nobody wants to lose their ability to see due to diseases like age-related macular degeneration, and eating papayas will ensure that you do not see a day where you cannot see.

6. Protects against arthritis

Arthritis can be a really debilitating disease and people who have it may find their quality of life reduced significantly. Eating papayas are good for your bones as they have anti-inflammatory properties along with Vitamin C which helps in keeping various forms of arthritis at bay. A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases showed that people who consumed foods low in Vitamin C were three times more likely to have arthritis than those who didn’t.

7. Improves digestion

In today’s times, it is near impossible to avoid eating foods that are bad for your digestive system. Often we find ourselves eating junk food or restaurant food prepared in excessive quantities of oil. Eating a papaya daily can make up for such occasional mistakes, as it has a digestive enzyme known as papain along with fibre which helps improve your digestive health.

8. Helps ease menstrual pain

Women who are experiencing menstrual pain should help themselves to several servings of papaya, as an enzyme called papain helps in regulating and easing flow during menstrual periods.

9. Prevents signs of ageing

All of us would love to stay young forever, but no one in this world has managed to do it. Still, healthy habits like eating a papaya daily will prolong the process and may make you look 5 years younger than you are. Papaya is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E and antioxidants like beta-carotene which helps prevent your skin from free radical damage keeping wrinkles and other signs of ageing at bay.

10. Prevents cancer

Papaya is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients and flavonoids that prevent your cells from undergoing free radical damage. Some studies have also linked the consumption papaya to reduced risk of colon and prostate cancer.

11. Helps reduce stress

After working hard for the whole day, it is a good idea to come home to a plate a papayas. The wonder fruit is rich in several nutrients like Vitamin C which can keep you free from stress. According to a study conducted in University of Alabama, found that 200 mg of Vitamin C can help regulate the flow of stress hormones in rats.

8 Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is by far, one of the most powerful, body-healing fruits out there! The amazing health benefits of watermelon cover everything from your brain all the way to the cells in your feet.

The best time to indulge in this fresh, succulent, juicy melon, is summertime, when they are in season and deliver an array of nutrients, vitamin and minerals.

Watermelon is incredibly hydrating (up to 92% water!) and is naturally low-fat. Make this melon a part of your daily diet and you will reap amazing benefits that range from improving cardiovascular health to nourishing your eyes and revving up your immune system! Read below and see for yourself!

Cardiovascular & Bone Health

The lycopene in watermelon is especially important for our cardiovascular health and is now being recognized as an important factor in promoting bone health. Consuming large amounts of watermelon has also been correlated with improved cardiovascular function because it improves blood flow via vasodilation (relaxation of blood pressure). Dietary lycopene (from foods like watermelon or tomatoes) reduces oxidative stress which normally reduces the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts (the two major bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis) – this means stronger bones for those consuming lycopene-rich foods. Watermelon is also rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in your body, resulting in stronger bones and joints.

Reduces Body Fat

The citrulline in watermelon has been shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Citrulline is an amino acid which converts into arginine with help from the kidneys. When our bodies absorb citrulline it can take the step of converting into arginine if so required. Citrulline, when consumed, has the ability to (through a series of steps) block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.

Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Support

Watermelon is rich in phenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. The carotenoid lycopene in watermelon is particularly beneficial in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals. The tripterpenoid cucurbitacin E is also present in watermelon, which provides anti-inflammatory support by blocking activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes which normally lead to increased inflammatory support. Make sure you pick ripe watermelons, because they contain higher amounts of these beneficial phenolic compounds.

Diuretic & Kidney Support

Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelons helps the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.

Muscle & Nerve Support

Rich in potassium, watermelon is a great natural electrolyte and thus helps regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body. Potassium determines the degree and frequency with which our muscles contract, and controls the excitation of nerves in our body.

Alkaline-forming

Watermelons have an alkaline-forming effect in the body when fully ripe. Eating lots of alkaline-forming foods (fresh, ripe, fruit and vegetables) can help reduce your risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet (namely, meat, eggs and dairy).

Improves Eye Health

Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene (that rich red hue of watermelon = beta carotene) which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.

Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage

The vitamin C content in watermelon is astoundingly high. Vitamin C is great at improving our immune system by maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protecting them from reactive oxygen species (which damages our cells and DNA). The role of vitamin C in healing wounds has also been observed in numerous studies because it is essential to the formation of new connective tissue. The enzymes involved in forming collagen (the main component of wound healing) cannot function without vitamin C. If you are suffering from any slow-healing wounds, up your intake of vitamin C heavy fruit!

Health Benefits of Grapes

The health benefits of grapes include their ability to treat constipation, indigestion, fatigue, kidney disorders, macular degeneration and the prevention of cataracts. Grapes, one of the most popular and delicious fruits, are rich sources of vitamins A, C, B6 and folate in addition to essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and selenium.

Grapes contain flavonoids that are very powerful antioxidants, which can reduce the damage caused by free radicals and slow down aging.Grapes, due to their high nutrient content, play an important role in ensuring a healthy and active life.

Health Benefits of Grapes

Some of the health benefits of grapes include the following:

Asthma: Due to their well-known therapeutic value, grapes can be used as a cure for asthma. In addition to that, the hydrating power of grapes is also high, which increases the moisture present in the lungs and reduces asthmatic events.

Bone Health: Grapes are a wonderful source of micro-nutrients like copper, iron, and manganese, all of which are important in the formation and strength of the bones. Adding grapes into your diet on a regular basis can prevent the onset of age-related conditions like osteoporosis. Manganese is an extremely important element in the body, which aids in everything from protein metabolism, collagen formation, and nervous system functioning.

Heart diseases: Grapes increase the nitric oxide levels in the blood, which prevents blood clots.  Therefore, grapes are an effective way to reduce the chances of heart attacks. Additionally, the antioxidants present in grapes prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which blocks the blood vessels and is a main contributor to various coronary conditions. Grapes also have high numbers of flavonoids, which are what give grapes their color, but flavonoids are also very powerful antioxidants. The two main types in grapes are resveratrol and quercetin, and these two compounds negate the effects of free radicals that threaten the body and stimulate LDL cholesterol’s harmful effects on arteries. Also, these two antioxidant flavonoids act as a clean-up crew to reduce platelet clumping and filter toxins out of the blood.

Migraine: Ripe grape juice is an important home remedy for curing migraines. It should be drunk early in the morning, without mixing additional water. Ironically, drinking red wine is often considered a cause of migraines, but grape juice and grape seed extract is considered a solution for the problem. There are many causes behind migraines, and it can be difficult to pinpoint the culprit, since they include chemical imbalances, lack of sleep, changes in weather, or dietary deficiencies. Alcohol in general causes migraines, but grapes have so many antioxidants that they can cause and cure the same illness!

Constipation: Grapes are very effective in overcoming and eliminating constipation. They are classified as a laxative food, because they contain organic acid, sugar and cellulose. They also relieve chronic constipation by toning up intestinal muscles and the stomach. Grapes are high in insoluble fiber, meaning that it remains intact as it moves through the digestive tract. It builds up bulk, which promotes the formation and excretion of healthy stool, so grapes can help make you much more regular. However, if you suffer from loos stool or diarrhea, grapes should not be used as a way to regulate your system. Insoluble fiber doesn’t soak up water to dry out loose stool, and grapes don’t have a high level of soluble fiber.

Indigestion: Grapes play an important role in dyspepsia. They relieve heat and cure indigestion and irritation in the stomach. They are also preferred over other digestive aids because they are considered a “light food”.

Fatigue: Light and white grape juice supplements the iron content in the body and prevents fatigue. Anemia is a real problem for many people, and eating grapes can help keep your iron and mineral levels balanced in the body. A lack of iron can make you sluggish, and your mind also doesn’t work as quickly, since iron is an essential mineral that impact a number of bodily functions.  However, dark grape juice might not give an iron boost and may actually decrease iron levels. Drinking grape juice also provides a nearly instant energy boost.

Diabetes: Recent research suggests that grape skin extract (GSE) exerts a novel inhibitory activity on hyperglycemia and may help in diabetes management.

Dental Care: According to a recent study, red wine and grape seed extract can potentially help prevent cavities.

Kidney disorders: Grapes can substantially reduce the acidity of uric acid and they also help to eliminate acid from the system, thereby reducing the stress and pressure on the kidneys. Since grapes have a high water content, they induce urination, which also helps to eliminate the uric acid still present in the body after its acidity is reduced. Grapes have a very cleansing effect on the body, and the antioxidants present benefit all of the body’s systems in peripheral ways.

Blood cholesterol: Grapes contain a compound called pterostilbene, which has the capacity to lower a person’s cholesterol levels. Pterostilbene is closely related to resveratrol, the beneficial antioxidant and coloring flavonoid that is also found in grapes, and early research has shown that it has anti-cancer qualities as well as having a great impact on cholesterol levels. It is also thought to have preventative powers over cognitive decline. Furthermore, the saponins present in the skin of grapes can also prevent the absorption of cholesterol by binding with it.

Antibacterial activity: Red grapes have strong antibacterial and antiviral properties that can protect you from infections. They display strong antiviral properties against the polio virus and the herpes simplex virus. Studies have also shown that grape juice can tackle bacterial infections in the gut and other systems.

Breast cancer: In a recent study, it has been discovered that purple, Concord grape juice helps in preventing breast cancer. Significant reduction in mammary tumor mass of laboratory rats was seen after they were fed the grape juice in an experimental setting. The antioxidants in grapes are beneficial in the prevention of all types of cancer, but there are some fascinating studies which specifically show grape juice as an effective preventive measure against breast cancer. Certain chemicals in grapes compete for binding sites, and inhibits aromatase from changing androgen to estrogen, which is thought to be a big contributing factor to breast cancer growth in women.

Alzheimer’s disease: Resveratrol, a beneficial polyphenol present in grapes, reduces the levels of amyloidal-beta peptides in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies suggest that grapes can enhance brain health and delay the onset of degenerative neural diseases. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition claims that grape juice can even improve the brain function of older people who have already displayed mild cognitive impairment. Further studies are currently under way to determine the exact interaction between grape components and neural systems.

Macular degeneration: Grapes can prevent age-related loss of vision and macular degeneration. Research study conducted at University of Miami suggests that grape-enriched diet supports eye health and may prevent vision-threatening retinal diseases.

Studies have shown that three servings of grapes a day can reduce the risks of macular degeneration by over 36 %. Both grapes and wine can both contribute to a reduced loss of vision over time, and as with all of the organ systems, the health and susceptibility to disease or damage is lessened by the antioxidants packed into every grape!

Immune System: Grapes are not only packed with flavonoids and minerals, but vitamins as well! The high levels of Vitamin C, K, and A in grapes gives you a healthy boost to many of your organ systems, particularly your immune system, which means less chance of coming down with common colds, as well as more serious health issues.

Prevention of cataracts:Flavonoids present in grapes have antioxidants, which can reduce and fight the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals cause things like the development of cataracts, as well as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and various age-related problems. This is somewhat linked to macular degeneration, as they usually occur around the same time in life. Fortunately, antioxidants also have certain anti-aging qualities, which not only help you look younger, but also feel younger by staving off age-related conditions like cataracts.

Cancer prevention properties: Grapes have been found to have strong anti-cancer properties due to the anti-inflammatory effect of resveratrol. It is particularly effective in reducing the chances of colorectal cancer and breast cancer. The anthocyanins and pro-anthocyanidins in grapes have properties of an anti-proliferate and can inhibit the growth of cancer causing agents. Grape juice not only prevents the risk of cancer but also suppresses the growth and propagation of cancer cells. The pigments contained in grapes enhance the overall immunity of the body to a wide range of diseases.

In conclusion, grapes play a pivotal role in preventing a multitude of health disorders and can be used as a home-based remedy for several ailments. Dried grapes, known as raisins, are also extremely nutritious and can help treat many disorders, including constipation, acidosis, anemia, fever, and sexual dysfunction. Raisins can also help people gain weight quickly and protect the health and functional integrity of their eyes.