Summer freshness: 10 benefits of the sweet melon
Summer is here and we often find ourselves thinking about fresh fruits. While the watermelon seems to be in higher demand at the market, let's not forget about the melon.
The melon is highly valued for its taste and dietetic properties. It is one of the most sought after desserts in summer.
The mellow fruit has easy to absorb sugars, starch, proteins, vitamins, pectin, organic acids, mineral salts, etc.
Here are some of the health benefits of this much loved summer fruit:
The melon is good for anemia, cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney problems, as well as gout and rheumatism.
The melon is rich in silicon, which is very important for the good condition of the hard tissues, skin and hair. The silicon has an effect on the cortex of the cerebrum and is needed for the strength of the nerves and the function of the intestines, the digestive tract and all internal organs.
The melon has more vitamin C than the watermelon.
The cellulose in the melon has a good effect on the gastric microflora, helps eliminate the bad cholesterol and improves digestion.
The melon has rejuvenating properties. In the East the melon is said to make the hair shiny, the eyes - youthful, the lips - fresh, the desires - strong, the chances - real, the men - wanted and the women - delightful.
The melon is usually eaten fresh, but it can also be served dried, in the form of preserve, marmalade or jam, as compote and as candied fruit.
It is rich in PP, carotene, folic acid and iron. It is useful in treating constipation, atherosclerosis, hemorrhoids, blood-related problems and diseases of the kidneys and cardiovascular system.
The melon is used to strengthen the nervous system. It contains substances that help the production of serotonin - the hormone of happiness. However, it is not recommended for diabetics and people suffering from diseases of the liver.
There are a few tricks to selecting a ripe melon. Look at the stem - it has to be thick and dried out. Press the rind on the opposite side of the stem and make sure it yields a little.
The ripe melon has a strong aroma. It should be heavy and give out a deep hollow sound when you knock on it. The deep colour of the pulp means plenty of vitamin A.