Who would have thought watermelon was loaded with so much nutrition?

Watermelon are in season right now so it’s the best time to enjoy them. I am very proud of the watermelon pictured it is our first organically grown heirloom Stars and Moon watermelon!!! And let me tell you it was YUMMO!! The sweetest, crispest, juiciest watermelon I have tasted!! I am drooling just thinking of it.

Nutritionists have long appreciated the health benefits watermelon provides. Watermelon not only boosts your "health esteem," but it is has excellent levels of vitamins A and C and a good level of vitamin B6

Watermelon is a perfect start to the day! After a night’s sleep, our bodies have become dehydrated. Ideally we should start the day drinking 1-2lts of water before we eat or drink anything. I know I struggle to do this I have worked my way up to drinking 1lt but I struggle to get 2lt in and I know I would not be able to get a bulk amount of water into my kids first thing in the morning but since watermelon is 92% water it’s a great way to hydrate little bodies in the morning. Plus it is a much better start to the day than cereal and dairy  It is also a great way to hydrate little bodies on a hot summers day especially if you find it hard to get your little one to drink water.    

• Vitamin A found in watermelon is important for optimal eye health, can help prevent night-blindness, and boosts immunity by enhancing the infection-fighting actions of white blood cells called lymphocytes.
• Vitamin B6 found in watermelon helps the immune system produce antibodies. Antibodies are needed to fight many diseases. Vitamin B6 helps maintain normal nerve function and form red blood cells. The body uses it to help break down proteins. The more protein you eat, the more vitamin B6 you need.
• Vitamin C in watermelon can help to bolster the immune system's defenses against infections and viruses and can protect a body from harmful free radicals that can accelerate aging and conditions such as cataracts.
• A two-cup serving of watermelon is also a source of potassium, a mineral necessary for water balance and found inside of every cell. People with low potassium levels can experience muscle cramps. Potassium is important for cardiovascular health and brain health and helps the kidneys eliminate kidney stone forming calcium as well as assists with the body's fluid retention.
• And not forgetting it a great source of soluble fibre
• Hydrating

How to shop and store:

1. The best way to choose a flavourful melon is to look at the colour and quality of the flesh, which should be a deep colour and absent from white streaks. If it features seeds, they should be deep in colour.
2. When choosing a whole watermelon, look for one that is heavy for its size with a rind that is relatively smooth and that is neither overly shiny nor overly dull.
3. Once cut, watermelons should be refrigerated in order to best preserve their freshness, taste and juiciness. If the whole watermelon does not fit in your refrigerator, cut it into pieces (as few as possible), and cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from becoming dried out and from absorbing the odours of other foods.

Recipe

Watermelon Slushie – A great replacement for sports drinks

2 cups watermelon

1tbl lemon juice

6-8 ice cubes

Stevia drops or honey to taste

Blend Together!! Enjoy

Bessxx