- The many health benefits of eating cantaloupe.
- Summer is melon season, and fresh organic cantaloupes are available from June to August.
- Remember to get them fresh and organic while you still can as there are many health benefits of eating cantaloupe. They are delicious in smoothies and fruit salads.
- Let’s take a look at the health benefits of eating cantaloupe:
- Anti-inflammatory properties:
- Organic cantaloupe is packed with antioxidants called polyphenols that provide potent anti-inflammatory benefits. Chronic inflammation is considered a risk factor for many serious diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
- A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that those who ate fruits and vegetables, including cantaloupe, had a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, which is a condition caused by inflammation.
- Antioxidant rich:
- It is an excellent source of antioxidants such as vitamin A and C. Antioxidants protect the body from the effects of oxidative stress, which may help strengthen the immune system and ward off diseases. Dr. Andrew Weil explains, “Oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).” The effects of oxidative stress are often linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and many types of cancers.
- Eye health:
- Cantaloupe is rich in carotenoids called lutein and zeaxanthin. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, these two are the only carotenoids found in the retina of the eye.
- Organic foods that are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin can help reduce the risk of developing serious eye conditions including cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Immune booster:
- Cantaloupe is an excellent source of vitamin A, with 120% of the recommended daily value in just one cup. It is also an outstanding source of vitamin C, 65mg per cup, which is 108% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin A and C are two essential vitamins to keeping the immune system strong and fighting infections.
- Rich in potassium:
- This melon is a great source of potassium, with 473mg per cup (14% of the recommended daily value. Potassium is important for good nerve and muscle function and for maintaining normal heart contractions.
- It also is essential to the proper function of the gastrointestinal tract, we hope you are convinced about the health benefits of eating cantaloupe.
- AS ALWAYS: Check with your health practitioner before you change your diet. This organic food is not meant to replace any treatment or drugs you are taking.
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- For a flat belly and cantaloupe infused water.
- For a chronic inflammation juice.
- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Fruit and Vegetable Intakes, C-reactive Protein, and the Metabolic Syndrome.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Dec. 2006. Web. 7 July 2014.
- 2. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Melons, Cantaloupe, Raw [includes USDA Commodity Food A415].” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 07 July 2014.
- 3. “Vitamin Effects on the Immune System: Vitamins A and D Take Centre Stage.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Nature Reviews. Immunology, Sept. 2008. Web. 07 July 2014.
- 4. “Carotenoids.” Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Oregon State University, n.d. Web. 05 July 2014.
- 5. “Stumped by Oxidative Stress?.” WEIL. Dr. Andrew Weil, n.d. Web. 07 July 2014.
