Watermelon Mania

Sweet, light and refreshing are only three adjectives you could use to describe the best fruit out there, watermelon. August is National Watermelon Month and it’s a time to celebrate America’s most beloved fruit. It’s no surprise that watermelon is the most consumed fruit by weight in the United States; for only 80 calories per serving it’s hard not to love. The United States is the sixth ranked producer of watermelon worldwide and harvests out about 3.9 billion pounds every year. So dig in and learn more why this fruit is fabulous.

The Flexible Fruit

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest watermelon that ever existed was about 350lbs, grown by a man in Tennessee in 2013. That’s enough melon to feed an army of people. Though you might not find a fruit that large at the grocery store, you will find watermelons that typically range from 15-20lbs.

An average 20lb watermelon yields about 11 cups of cubed watermelon and six cups of juice. But that’s not all- most people overlook the rind as a functional part of the fruit. The rind is, in fact, edible. It is sometimes used as a vegetable where experienced chefs choose to stir fry them or pickle them. Watermelon is after all a cousin to cucumbers, pumpkin and squash.

Packs a Punch

Watermelons are a wholesome part of a meal just like other fruit or vegetable. A single serving, or two cups of fruit, is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin A is an important factor to eye health as well as aiding lymphocyte production. Vitamin C allows your skin to shine bright and beautiful. Vitamin B6 contributes to a better immune system. And potassium helps to maintain water balance and proper nerve signaling.

Watermelons contain lycopene which is an antioxidant that plays a role in reducing heart disease. It also contains citrulline- an amino acid which helps maintain blood flow for cardiovascular function.

On top of all of the wonderful vitamins and minerals that they provide, it is probably no surprise that watermelons are loaded with water. One fruit is made up of roughly 92% water, making it a hydrating snack in the warm summer heat.

Showing its Stripes

When you’re at the grocery store it’s important to know if you’re picking the right melon. The shape of the melon should be oval and symmetrical. An important tip to remember is to look for a creamy, yellow spot on the underside of the melon. This indicates good sun exposure and ensures a sweet, ripened fruit. Keep in mind that peak season for watermelon in the United States is from May to September.

Don’t forget that watermelons are extremely versatile. You probably didn’t know that there are also yellow and orange varieties of watermelon. These are typically sweeter than red-fleshed watermelon. They add a surprising touch to your fruit bowl. Speaking of fruit bowls, a “personal watermelon” or mini watermelons that grow to only 5-7lbs are great for fruit bowls! Just hollow out the rind for a fun and organic fruit bowl.

For only 14 cents a serving, watermelon is not just delicious and nutritious but affordable. Make a point to reach for the watermelon this month while you’re at the grocery store. It will lighten up your dull Mondays and make your weekends a little sweeter.

Your turn to take action: Try yellow or orange watermelon this week and let me know how you like it.

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