Watermelon is a fruit with various benefits. Not only refreshing the body when consumed in hot weather, watermelon is also able to help lower high blood pressure.
Watermelon is a tropical fruit that has a very high water content. According to research, the water content in one watermelon reaches 91%. In addition to high water content, watermelon is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are beneficial for health.
Various Benefits of Watermelon
There are several benefits that are believed to be obtained by consuming watermelon, including:
- Sufficient body fluids
- Streamlining the digestive process
- Reduce the inflammatory process
- Reduce muscle pain
- Improve performance while exercising
- Maintain a healthy heart and blood vessels
- Prevent cancer
The benefits above are thought to be because watermelon contains citrulline which works as an antioxidant. Citrulline is an amino acid (a protein-forming component) that can be found in food and is also naturally produced by the human body.
Rate citrulline The content contained in each watermelon is not the same, depending on how the watermelon is grown.
Watermelon and Hypertension
Apart from the above benefits, citrulline Watermelon is also believed to lower blood pressure. Citrulline This will dilate and relax the blood vessels, so that blood flow becomes smoother and the pressure in the blood vessels decreases.
Not only that, citrulline As an antioxidant, it can counteract free radicals that can cause plaque buildup in blood vessels and make blood vessels harden.
In essence, consuming watermelon can provide many benefits for the body. But considering the rate citrulline different in each watermelon, it is not certain how much watermelon should be consumed to be able to lower blood pressure.
If you want to make watermelon as a supporting food in lowering blood pressure, you should first consult with your doctor.
Written by:
dr. Diani Adrina, SpGK(Clinical Nutrition Specialist)
