Can I eat watermelon in the winter?
Answer
Absolutely! Watermelon is growing somewhere at any point during the year, which means it’s always available. Check out this handy chart to see where your watermelon is coming from. To get your watermelon fix during colder months just look for minis or “fresh cut” containers of watermelon in the produce aisle.
What are fresh cuts?
Fresh cuts are the pre-cut fruits and vegetables that are most often found in the produce section of your local grocery store. Grab a container of fresh cut watermelon sticks or cubes and try some of these fun recipes ….
Watermelon Strawberry Mint Salsa
Fresh Mozzarella Watermelon Salad
You can also use the fresh cuts to create some delicious watermelon juice! By simply blending and straining the fresh cuts, you can make a quick and easy juice. Check out these recipes that use watermelon juice to create some taste drinks and dishes.
Watermelon Bourbon Glaze with Grilled Flank Stead
Check out this video to learn more about making watermelon juice.
What are the benefits to eating watermelon?
Watermelon is a wonderful fruit that not only makes your taste buds happy, but also the rest of your body! Learn about the many ways eating (or drinking) watermelon can benefit the body.
1. Helps you hydrate.
Watermelon has 92 percent water by weight. This means it is a delicious way for you to hydrate! You can eat it fresh, drink it as a juice or enjoy it in a smoothie.
Try this Watermelon Post Workout Smoothie to help your body hydrate after a long sweat session.
2. Provides Vitamin C.
Vitamin C helps your body’s immune health, functions as an antioxidant in the body, and is involved in the formation of collagen. By eating two cups of watermelon, you can reach 25 percent of your daily value.
3. Supplies lycopene.
Lycopene is a powerful plant carotenoid. A true lycopene leader, watermelon contains
To help increase lycopene absorption, try making meals with watermelon and healthy fats like cheese or salmon.
For example, try making this recipe for Broiled Salmon with Watermelon-Avocado Salsa.
4. Contributes carbs to fuel your workouts.
It’s important to eat a balanced diet that provides enough carbohydrates to support an active lifestyle. During an intense workout, carbohydrates are your body’s preferred source of fuel.
Providing 21 grams, or 8 percent of your daily value, watermelon is a natural carbohydrate that can help fuel your next workout, along with providing vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. The next time you are going to hit the gym or go for a run try some of these ideas:
- Start your pre-workout by eating watermelon. This will provide your body with carbs to fuel your upcoming exercise session.
- During a long endurance workout, try drinking watermelon juice to hydrate. This recipe for a Watermelon Sports Drink is a great option.
- After your workout, enjoy a slice of watermelon to help restock your muscles with glycogen (the carbohydrates that are stored as energy in the muscles).
