Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise promotes health and can substantially reduce the risk of certain fatal diseases associated with old age. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has always been of incredible health benefit. Scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, watermelon has great potential as a staple food source and contributes to a healthy nutritional diet.

Watermelons were mainly grown on lighter soils in regions with warmer climates. Watermelons were warm-season crops eaten as dessert fruits, and the rinds were used to make pickles and preserves. However, with increased market acceptance, better eating quality, and adaptability to long-distance shipping, the growth of watermelons has increased worldwide. Certain breeds of watermelon have been developed to be more specific to regions of the world. The aging has resulted in an improved quality, which implies a maximum sugar content, an excellent flavor and a firm pulp with a deep red color pigment due to the presence of lycopene.

Sweet, juicy watermelon actually contains some of nature’s most important antioxidants. Reduces the risk of deadly diseases such as asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis. Watermelon is rich in B vitamins necessary for energy production. Watermelon is a very good source of vitamin B6 and a good source of vitamin B1, magnesium, and potassium. Watermelon has a high nutrient density due to the higher water content and lower caloric content than many other fruits. A rich source of vitamins A and C, watermelon also contains lycopene. Lycopene is a red pigment that occurs naturally in certain plant tissues and algae. In addition to giving watermelon and tomatoes their color, it is an excellent antioxidant that can help prevent heart disease and some forms of cancer.

Until a few decades ago, watermelon was mostly a seasonal fruit that appeared on the market for a few months and disappeared at the end of summer. Considering the current information on the health benefits of watermelon, there has been a large increase in per capita watermelon consumption. Increased imports during the winter and early spring are helping to meet year-round consumer demand for watermelon.

Selective breeding programs are being used to improve the general nutritional qualities of watermelon. Commercial companies are employing trained scientists to research and develop long-term solutions that lead to better product quality in terms of higher sugar content and consequently increased acceptance among consumers.

In terms of acreage, production, and per capita consumption, watermelon is the leading melon crop in the US. A recent survey indicates that middle-income groups are the top consumers of watermelon. Most of the purchase of watermelon has been in retail stores and is classified as a household food. Among the three best melons, the Honeydew variety is the most frequent. The use of melon is similar to that of watermelon with 16 percent purchased as food away from home.