Watermelon

Watermelon is the perfect summer sweet treat that not only can quench your thirst due to the high water content it can also give you that sweet fix.  Luckily watermelon can be found in many grocery stores all year long because it’d be a shame to only enjoy this during the summer. 

Watermelon contains lycopene, a carotenoid responsible for certain fruits and vegetables bright red color.  Lycopene is heart-healthy and known to reduce incidence of cancer due to its high antioxidant properties.  Lycopene also increases the amount of arginine in our body, an amino acid which helps to keep arteries healthy and remove ammonia from our bodies.  Watermelons produce more lycopene at room temperature so you may want to store un-cut watermelon on your kitchen counter rather than in the refrigerator. 

Watermelon also contains vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and magnesium.  Watermelon is also rich in the B vitamins necessary for energy production.  Since watermelon has a high water content and lower calorie content (one cup = 48 calories), it makes a perfect snack. 

Add watermelon to your diet with these delicious recipes:

http://www.watermelon.org/recipes/Default.aspx

http://www.southernliving.com/food/holidays-occasions/watermelon-recipes-00417000068815/

Also if you are looking for a new way to flavor water, try adding a few slices of watermelon to a pitcher of water and keep it in the refrigerator for a crisp and refreshing beverage any time of the year.