Summer CleanTox Tips- #5 - Watermelon

It's melon season and I couldn't be happier. There is nothing like a bowl of watermelon on a hot day, or some watermelon juice... the stuff is good!

Well, lately, I have heard a lot of people saying how they like watermelon but question eating it because they believe it is high in sugar. Today we are going to set the record straight!

Not only does watermelon juice quench your thirst, but it also tastes great. A full cup of watermelon contains only 46 calories, and contains plenty of vitamins C and A as well as minerals and nutrients said to help fight inflammation which contributes to conditions such as asthma, diabetes, colon cancer and arthritis. Watermelon is also a source of the potent carotenoid antioxidant, lycopene. These powerful antioxidants travel through the body neutralizing free radicals.

Now about the sugar,the glycemic index of watermelon is between 72 and 80. Values above 55 are considered high. However, watermelon has a low glycemic load, which is a better measure of a food’s effect on blood sugar. This is due to the high amount of water in watermelon. The fruit is over 90 percent water, and since water is calorie free but filling, you are likely to become satisfied from a meal containing watermelon before you ingest too much sugar to pose health risks. Watermelon’s numerous health benefits are reasons to enjoy this deliciously sweet summer fruit and sugar should not have you staying away.

So now go dig into a bowl of watermelon, or skip the bowl and use the watermelon as one! Need some recipe inspiration? Check out my Watermelon, Peach and Feta Salad.

With a broken fridge I have been trying out some juices, a little pricey but hey I have nowhere to store anything. Fingers crossed that situation is worked out tomorrow. I have enjoyed the Butcher's Daughter's rehydrating juice and picked up ‘WTRMLNWTR’ at Whole Foods, they are both great thirst quenchers and a nice change from coconut water.

Ok, now don't forget to go pick yourself up a watermelon on your way home today!!

xo,

Lauren Courtney