Come summer, while we reel from the heat, the one spot of happiness could be the many summer fruits that make an entry. Typical summer fruits in India are Mango, Jackfruit, Litchis, and of course, the variety of melons. Most of us are familiar with Water Melons, but then there are a variety of melons that come in. While Water Melons are the most popular and widely seen ones, in different parts of India, you get a few other varieties as well. They are of different sizes, shapes, colors, and of course, have a wonderful taste. So, which are these different melons, and how do they benefit us?
Water Melon
The bright pink slices of WaterMelon are such a welcome sight in the sweltering heat of summer. These round or oval-shaped green colored fruits are again of a few different varieties. They may be light green colored with no stripes or dark green with stripes. But they all belong to the Water Melon family and contain 90% water. In summer, there is nothing more filling than eating a few pieces of Water Melon, as it satisfies both the hunger as well as thirst needs of your body. But, there is more; they are good for you as well.
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- Dehydration is a common problem seen in summer, especially among seniors. Water Melons could help you prevent them as they come with natural electrolytes. The Potassium in this fruit also works as an electrolyte and improves blood circulation.
- It also comes has Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. As we have seen often, antioxidants prevent or reduce free radicals from forming in our body, and this reduces the chances of getting cancer.
- The Water Melon rind has chlorophyll, which helps build your blood. There are a few dishes made using the Water Melon rinds, possibly because our ancestors knew about it.
- You may be surprised to know, that most dieticians will advise you eat the Water Melons with the seed. The seeds are equally beneficial as the fruit; they contain loads of zinc, iron, fiber, and protein.
Musk Melon (Cantaloupe)
Small, round, slightly yellowish with thick skin, musk melons are also available in a few varieties, across India. It is mostly eaten fresh or blended into juices or smoothies or shakes. All these come with a musky smell and hence the name given to them as musk melon.
These melons are said to provide coolness to the body, perhaps why they are available in abundant in the summer. Besides, they are also good for senior citizens as they come with significant health benefits. They help with issues like fatigue (summer problem), constipation, ulcers, bladder infections, and even helps stabilize the blood pressure. That’s not all; they are low in calories, so you can eat them in peace, and most importantly, high in Vitamin A, and as we know, helps maintain skin and eye health. This is also a fruit that can be eaten by the diabetics as it is low on the glycemic index.
Honeydew Melon
Honeydew melon is the slightly oval, pale green in color melon, which happens to be one of the sweetest of all. It is thick and juicy and is often eaten fresh. This fruit is said to be a great natural source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium and zinc. Hence, it is filled with nutrition, while also being tasty and providing a respite from the summer heat.
You may see a few other imported varieties of melons also in the supermarkets nowadays. However, it doesn’t matter which, what matters is that melons are a great fruit to be had in the summers, for their cooling effect as well as the nutritional effect and health benefits.
