Honeydew melon is also known as honeymelon. It is a fruit that belongs to the melon species cucumis melo. Usually, it is also related to squash and cucumbers. Honeydew melon flesh is pale green in color, while the smooth peel ranges from greenish to yellow. Honeymelon is a low-calorie fruit. This fruit is available worldwide. It can be eaten on its own or used in desserts, salads, snacks, and soups.
Nutritional Value of Honeydew Melon
100 g of raw honeydew melon contains the following nutritional value:
- Calories: 35 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9.08 g
- Sugars: 8.15 g
- Dietary fiber: 0.8 g
- Fat: 0.12 g
- Protein: 0.54 g
- Vitamin B6: 0.088 mg
- Vitamin C: 18 mg
- Vitamin K: 2.8 μg
- Calcium: 6 mg
- Iron: 0.15 mg
- Magnesium: 10 mg
- Manganese: 0.025 mg
- Phosphorus: 10 mg
- Potassium: 228 mg
- Sodium: 18 mg
- Zinc: 0.09 mg
Health Benefits of Honeydew Melons
1. Improves Heart Health
The carotenoids and polyphenols in honeydew melon have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help reduce blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, and treat and prevent cardiovascular disease. Also, the folate and other vitamins present in the honeydew melon provide protection against stroke.
2. Maintains Hydration
Our body can get dehydrated when we lose more water than we consume. Honeydew melon contains about 90 percent of water. This fruit is also loaded with potassium, magnesium, sodium, and calcium. The right blend of water and minerals content makes honeydew melon perfect for maintaining electrolytes and fluid balance in the body. However, honeydew melon helps in maintaining hydration.
3. Supports Digestion
Dietary fiber present in honeydew melon helps digestive health and function. According to studies, adequate consumption of fiber slows blood sugar response and regularises bowel movements and the growth of healthy gut bacteria. It also lowers the risk of gastrointestinal woes.
4. Enhance Bone Health
Honeydew melon contains many nutrients that are important for repairing and maintaining strong bones such as folate, vitamin K, and magnesium. As per studies, vitamin K helps in the production of a major structural protein in bone known as osteocalcin. That’s why an individual should consume adequate vitamin K as it is essential for healthy bones.
5. Improves Skin Health
Honeydew melon is a good source of vitamin C. This fruit can help to nourish and sustain skin health. Vitamin C is important for the proper production of collagen, it is a protein that helps in repairing and maintaining skin tissue. This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that can shield the skin against sun damage.
Side Effects of Honeydew Melon
- Consuming honeydew melon in moderate amounts is considered safe. However, consuming it in excess amounts can lead to many side effects.
- It involves digestive issues such as diarrhea or elevated blood sugar levels.
- Honeydew melon can cause allergic reactions in some people. It involves mouth itching, rash, hives, cramps, and trouble breathing.
- If you get such kind of symptoms after consuming honeydew melon then stop its intake and make sure to consult the doctor.
Easy Ways to Add Honeydew Melon to Diet
Always select a ripe honeydew melon. Because unripe honeydew melons are flavorless. This fruit can be consumed by itself, a slice of cool, ripe melon. However, if you are looking for something more then there are many other ways to enjoy this fruit. Honeydew melon can be added to a wide variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, desserts, or appetizers.