Melon : health benefits and virtues
Melon benefits and virtues
There are many varieties of melon, such as the winter melon, which is yellow and oval in shape with very pale flesh. But the most consumed by the French is still the Cantaloupe-Charentais melon, round and with orange flesh.
It is produced in the south of France and in the central-western region. After Spain and Italy, we are the third largest producer of melons in Europe.
Pixabay Forum
Melon is known for its many health benefits.
For the record
The origin is still uncertain. However, it is suspected that it is of African origin. In fact, it is known that the Egyptians cultivated the melon already 500 years before JC.
It was not until the 15th century that melon arrived in France, by King Charles VIII. The melon comes from the Cantaluppo farm in Rome, hence its name "Cantaloup Melon".
Queen Joan II of Naples used the melon for its anti-aging properties. Fine slices of melon were applied to the face to ensure a radiant complexion.
The melon or Cucumis melo has a juicy and sweet flesh, which makes this vegetable the star product of the summer.
Like zucchini, cucumber, watermelon and pumpkin, melons are members of the large cucurbit family.
Melon and its health benefits
To the pleasure of the taste buds are added curative and preventive properties.
The abundance of water (90%), makes melon a powerful diuretic. It prevents water retention and purifies the body by eliminating toxins.
Melons also have a laxative property. Fibers present in small quantities (1%) ensure better intestinal transit. It is recommended in cases of mild constipation and to fight hemorrhoids.
It has the power to limit premature aging of the skin, it is an excellent antioxidant.
Beta-carotene, a pigment found in melons, intervenes in vision, protects the retina, and therefore slows down vision disorders that appear with age (cataracts in particular).
Thanks to vitamin C, melons reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Melon regulates blood pressure in case of hypertension, thanks to its potassium content (300 mg/100g).
It may also be indicated for anemia and arthritis.
Melon is a shield against infection. It contributes to the immune system by stimulating the synthesis of immune cells.
Melon also stimulates the production of serotonin, a mood hormone. Lack of serotonin can cause depression.
Melon can decrease liver acidity, itching and skin inflammation.
Melon also restores the skin's glow, prepares it for the sun and enhances the tan, like carrots. It also strengthens dandruff.
All its virtues make melon a true ally for your health.
Melon in the kitchen
Melon can be eaten as a smoothie, sorbet, salad, raw, as a starter or dessert.
How to choose it?
To choose the right melon, check the stem. If it comes off easily, your melon has reached maturity.
Are your intestines playing tricks on you? It's better to eat melon at room temperature than fresh.
For those who like sweet and sour, the melon can be eaten on skewers, with Bayonne ham, cherry tomatoes and diced mozzarella.
Nutritional intake of melon: 32 kcal/100 g, 0.14 g of lipids, 7g of carbohydrates
Very low in calories, it adapts very well to diets.
As the glycemic index of melon is low, it is not conducive to hyperglycemia and therefore not contraindicated for diabetics or in case of obesity.
Melon provides the body with potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamins C and A and iron. It has its place in a healthy diet.
Melon Recipe Ideas
Add melon seeds to your salads.
Remove the seeds, rinse them and fry them in your frying pan with a little olive oil. Then add salt. They will make your salads crunchy!
The caramelized melon:
Dare to have the hot melon! Put the melon quarters in a hot pan with a knob of butter. Add sugar to caramelize. If you want to flambé, add alcohol.
Melon skin jam:
Put the pieces of melon skin in a bowl of water with their weight in sugar. Add a squeezed lemon. Put the whole on a low heat for 2 hours.
Did you know that? Melons don't have sex.
Melon face care advice
A natural cleansing milk: mix the pulp of half a melon with 3 spoonfuls of curdled cheese with 40% fat. Then apply the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area.
Keep your preparation in a cool, closed container.
To restore radiance and tone the skin, soak a cotton pad in melon juice.
You may be interested:
If you want to know other articles similar to Melon : health benefits and virtues you can visit the category Health.
You may be interested in: