Watermelon-calories - everything you need to know about the watermelon

The humble watermelon is one of the greatest nutritional foods available today. Its reputed to have great medicinal properties that can ease the symptoms of conditions such as asthma, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis. Its also packed full of antioxidants, is an excellent source of vitamin A and D which neatralize free radicals throughout the body. These free radicals can cause a great deal of damage by oxidising cholesterol which makes it more sticky and therefore more able to clog the blood vessels. This increases the risk of serious heart disease and strokes. Free radicals also increase inflammation that occurs in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This inflammation is the major source of damage to the joints which is what makes such conditions so painful.

In terms of nutritional value, the watermelon is the king of foods. A cup of watermelon provides 24.3% of the RDA for vitamin C, and 11.1% of the RDA for vitamin A. Its packed full of Lycopene which is renowned for its ability to lower the risk of cancer particularly of the stomach, lung, and prostrate.

Not content with all these properties? Well, the watermelon is also a good source of vitamin B1, B6, magnesium and potassium. It has zero cholesterol, is very low in fat and salt and contains less than 50 calories per cup! Watermelons also contain an ingredient called citrulline that can trigger production of a compound that helps relax the body's blood vessels, similar to the effect of Viagra.

Its also delicious to eat and can be used in thousands of recipes. There are over 1200 different varieties across the world and they come in all shapes and sizes. It's even possible to grow square watermelons.
This unusual fruit is taking Japan by storm but is only available at select supermarkets and upscale stores. Japanese farmers have perfected the art of growing square watermelons.

Its very easy to pick a good watermelon. Just follow these three simple steps.

Step 1 - Looks are everything. Take a good look all over the surface of the watermelon and make sure it's free from dents, bruises or cuts.

Step 2 - Weight is important. A watermelon is over 90% water and when you pick it up it should feel heavy for its size. If it does not then its likely to be dry and unappetizing.

Step 3 - The bottom is important! - there should be a pale yellow spot where it was sat on the ground.

Once you have your watermelon, it should be eaten as soon as possible to get the most benefit from its fantastic health properties. It can be stored, preferably whole, for a couple of days but not much longer without suffering some degradation.